Zirconium Oxide, also known as Zirconia, is a white crystalline oxide of zirconium and a highly stable compound. Zirconia is represented by the chemical formula ZrO2 and it exhibits numerous fascinating physical and chemical properties that make it ideal for a wide variety of applications.

Zirconium Oxide is primarily characterized by its high thermal stability, mechanical strength, and relatively high fracture toughness, properties which make it a suitable material for use in structurally demanding applications. Furthermore, it has good chemical resistance and excellent biocompatibility, increasing its value for use in the medical industry.

Physical Properties: Zirconium Oxide is a white, odorless solid that is insoluble in water. The crystal structure of Zirconia undergoes three changes based on temperature: monoclinic (below 1170°C), tetragonal (1170-2370°C), and cubic (above 2370°C).

Chemical Properties: Zirconia is chemically unreactive under normal conditions. It resists most acids but can be dissolved by hydrofluoric acid and concentrated sulfuric acid.

Applications of Zirconium Oxide

Zirconium Oxide finds application in numerous industries owing to its robust properties.

1. Ceramics: It’s widely used in the manufacture of ceramics, including wear-resistant tools and cutting tools, due to its high thermal stability and hardness.

2. Dental and Medical: Zirconia is used in dental prosthetics and implants because of its excellent biocompatibility, mechanical properties, and pleasing aesthetic quality.

3. Oxygen Sensors: It’s also applied in lambda probes for determining oxygen content in exhaust gases as Zirconia can conduct oxygen ions at high temperatures.

4. Coatings: Zirconia is used as a coating material for particles and surfaces to increase their resistance to wear and corrosion.

5. Fuel Cells: Due to its ability to conduct oxygen ions, Zirconia finds use as an electrolyte in solid oxide fuel cells.

6. Refractories: In the metallurgical industry, Zirconia is employed in the linings of furnaces and other high temperature regions due to its excellent thermal stability.

7. Optical Devices: Owing to its high refractive index, Zirconia is used in the manufacture of lenses and other optical devices.