Zirconia (Zirconium Oxide or ZrO₂) has a monoclinic crystal structure at room temperatures, but transforms cubic and tetragonal structures at elevated temperatures.  This transition can result in the development of stresses during cooling which negatively impact the strength of the material.  However, may different materials, in particular oxides, can be incorporated into the formulation in order to stabilize the pure Zirconia.  Yttrium oxide (Y₂O₃) is one of the most commonly used stabilizers in Zirconia compositions, but magnesium oxide (MgO) and calcium oxide (CaO) have also been used.

The stabilization of zirconia with yttrium oxide, referred to as yttria stabilized zirconia (YSZ), results in a high strength ceramic material which has been used in a wide variety of applications.  Yttria stabilized zirconia is an excellent high temperature material for applications requiring good fracture toughness.

 Overview of Physical Properties

• Excellent strength
• Very high fracture toughness
• Excellent resistance to wear and abrasion
• Excellent corrosion resistance

Overview of Applications

• Pump components
• Cutting instruments and tools
• Valves
• Bearings
• Filters