Zirconia (YSZ)

Yttria-stabilized zirconia ceramic, or YSZ ceramic, is well known for its exceptional properties in wear resitance and chemical stability. It is formed by stabilizing zirconium dioxide (ZrO2) with about 3-8 percent of yttrium oxide (Y2O3). This unique combination imparts enhanced mechanical and thermal properties to the ceramic.

YSZ ceramic exhibits high strength, toughness, and wear resistance, making it suitable for demanding applications in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and energy. Its excellent thermal insulation properties enable its use in thermal barrier coatings, protecting components from high-temperature environments. YSZ ceramic also possesses remarkable chemical stability, corrosion resistance, and low thermal conductivity, making it a preferred choice for applications in chemical processing and electrochemical devices.

One of the most notable applications of YSZ ceramic is in solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs), where it serves as an electrolyte material due to its ionic conductivity at high temperatures. Additionally, YSZ ceramic finds use in oxygen sensors, catalytic converters, cutting tools, and biomedical implants.

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