Zirconium Oxide

Unlike other ceramic materials, zirconium oxide (ZrO2 –also known as zirconia) is a material with very high resistance to crack propagation. Zirconium oxide ceramics also have very high thermal expansion and are therefore often the material of choice for joining ceramic and steel.

Properties of Zirconium Oxide (ZrO2)

1.High thermal expansion (α=11 x 10-6/K, similar to some types of steel)

2.Excellent thermal insulation/low thermal conductivity (2.5 to 3 W/mK)

3.Very high resistance to crack propagation, high fracture toughness (6.5 to 8 MPam1/2)

4.Ability to conduct oxygen ions (used for the measurement of oxygen partial pressures in lambda probes)

Advantages:

1.Controlled porosity
2.Good thermal conductivity
3.High electrical resistivity