Zirconia (ZrO2)
Zirconia grades are various. They differentiate from each other by the nature of the stabilising agent which is used. In its pure form, zirconia is not stable. Magnesia-partially-stabilised zirconia (MgO-PSZ) and yttria-partially stabilised zirconia (Y-TZP) in particular offer an outstanding resistance to mechanical shocks as well as to flexural load, because of their high fracture toughness and relative “ elasticity ”. These two zirconias are advanced ceramics of choice for severe mechanical applications. Other grades in fully stabilised composition exist and are mostly used for high-temperature applications.
MORE INFORMATION
Microcertec offers those two types of zirconias that are mostly requested on the market, in pressed and extruded grades :
- magnesia-partially-stabilised zirconia (MgO-PSZ)
- yttria-partially-stabilised zirconia (Y-TZP)
MgO-PSZ and Y-TZP zirconias have the following features :
- high density
- high flexural strength (> 500 MPa for MgO-PSZ and > 800 MPa for Y-TZP)
- very high fracture toughness
- good wear resistance
- low thermal conductivity (10 x less than alumina)
- good resistance to thermal shocks
- resistance to chemical attacks
- electrical conductivity at high temperature
- fine surface finish easily achievable
MgO-PSZ and Y-TZP zirconias are advanced ceramic materials that are widely used in the following applications :
- plungers and valves for dosing pumps (food, medical, pharmaceutical industries)
- tube and ring faces for mechanical seals
- wear parts for mechanical processing equipment
- components for metrology equipment
- pins & guides for handling devices for FPD glass sheets in coating machines