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Converters & Calculators
Common Types Of Advanced Ceramics
Description
High-performance ceramics, also known as technical ceramics, are employed in various industries. They offer mechanical performance that exceeds that of standard ceramics. They also have high thermal stability and chemical resistance. Key materials include aluminium oxide, zirconium dioxide, boron nitride and boron carbide. Each material provides a solution for specific industrial conditions.
Alumina
Alumina, chemically aluminium oxide (Al₂O₃), is one of the most versatile high-performance ceramics. It is characterised by high hardness, effective wear resistance, efficient electrical insulation and thermal stability even at elevated temperatures. Alumina is used in the electronics sector for insulating substrates, mechanical seals, biomedical implants and cutting tools. Its high dielectric strength and mechanical reliability make it essential in the semiconductor industry for substrates and insulating components.
Zirconium Dioxide
Zirconium dioxide (ZrO₂) is known for its considerable toughness and mechanical strength. It exhibits transformation toughening, which reduces crack propagation and impact effects. It is used in medical technology for dental crowns and implants because of its biocompatibility and acceptable aesthetic quality. It is also applied in high-performance bearings, cutting tools and wear-resistant components in the automotive and aerospace industries.
Boron Nitride
Boron nitride (BN) ceramics combine high thermal conductivity with efficient electrical insulation. It is often compared with graphite; however, it is electrically insulating. Boron nitride exists mainly in two forms: hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) and cubic boron nitride (cBN). Hexagonal boron nitride, sometimes referred to as "white graphite", is used as a lubricant and as an insulator at high temperatures. Cubic boron nitride, which has a hardness second only to diamond, is employed in grinding applications, including cutting tools and grinding wheels for hardened steels and alloys.
Boron Carbide
Boron carbide (B₄C) is one of the hardest known materials. It ranks immediately after diamond and cubic boron nitride. Its extreme hardness, low density and high chemical resistance, together with neutron absorption capability, make it suitable for use in lightweight armour for defence applications. It is also appropriate for shielding and control rods in nuclear reactors. Boron carbide is employed extensively in abrasive applications such as polishing and grinding.
Table of Properties and Usage Data
|
Ceramic Material |
Key Properties |
Common Applications |
|
Alumina |
High hardness, thermal stability, effective electrical insulation |
Electronic substrates, mechanical seals, biomedical implants |
|
Considerable toughness, crack resistance, biocompatibility |
Dental implants, bearings, cutting tools |
|
|
Boron Nitride |
High thermal conductivity, efficient electrical insulation, lubricity |
High-temperature insulators, lubricants, abrasives |
|
Extreme hardness, low density, neutron absorption |
Armour, nuclear shielding, abrasives |
This table summarises the critical properties and common uses of each ceramic. It illustrates why each material is selected for particular applications. For further information, please visit Stanford Advanced Materials (SAM).
Frequently Asked Questions
What distinguishes high-performance ceramics from conventional ceramics?
High-performance ceramics differ from conventional ceramics by offering high strength, thermal stability, effective electrical insulation and chemical resistance. These properties enable them to meet specific industrial requirements.
Why is zirconium dioxide preferred for dental implants?
Zirconium dioxide is used in dental implants because of its biocompatibility, acceptable aesthetic quality, high strength and resistance to crack propagation.
Can alumina ceramics conduct electricity?
No, alumina ceramics provide effective electrical insulation. They are used as insulators in electronic devices.
What are the advantages of boron nitride over graphite?
Boron nitride, in contrast to graphite, is an electrical insulator. It maintains high thermal conductivity and lubricity at elevated temperatures. Consequently, it is suitable for electronic applications that require both insulation and heat dissipation.
Why is boron carbide used in armour?
Boron carbide is used in armour due to its extreme hardness, low density and resistance to penetration. It is suitable for use in protective vests and military vehicle armour.
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