Zirconia toughened alumina, also known as ZTA is a material that combines alumina with zirconia. This composite belongs to a group of ceramics called AZ composites.
The Impressive Characteristics of ZTA
Zirconia toughened alumina stands out due, to its properties. It finds use in applications cutting tools and various medical fields. The high strength, toughness, elasticity, hardness and wear resistance of AZ composites make them highly suitable, for these applications.
Mechanical Properties of Zirconia Toughened Alumina
Property Value
Chemical Formula Zr-Al2O3
Density 4.1-4.38 g/cm3
Hardness 1750-2100 Knoop
Elasticity 45-49 x 10^6 psi
Flexure Strength 100-145 ksi
Poissons Ratio 0.26
Fracture Toughness 5-7 MPa m^1/2
Coefficient of Thermal Expansion 8.0-8.1 x 10^ 6 1/C
Thermal Conductivity 20.0-21.0 W/mK
Shock Resistance 325 °C
Maximum Working Temperature 1650 °C
Note:All properties are provided at room temperature.
The Structure of ZTA
Zirconia toughened alumina (ZTA) is known for its strength compared to pure alumina. This strength comes from the transformation of the zirconia grains when they are subjected to stress.
Stress Induced Transformation Toughening
The strength of ZTA increases, through a process called stress induced transformation toughening. This process creates strains that lead to cracks in the zirconium structure allowing the zirconium particles to switch phases and move freely among the alumina particles.
The Versatility of ZTA
ZTA exhibits a range of properties making it a valuable material in applications. In the industry it finds use as a material for joint replacement and rehabilitation purposes.
ZTA in the Medical Industry
ZTAs high wear resistance makes it ideal for producing high performance implants. Its exceptional strength and corrosion resistance enable it to withstand loads without degradation making it suitable for load bearing applications.
ZTA in Cutting Tools
Due to its toughness ZTA is commonly employed in cutting tools alongside forms of alumina in metal cutting applications.
ZTA in Engine Components
engine components, labware items, industrial crucibles and refractory tubes can all be manufactured using ZTA.
ZTA in sandblasting
Zirconia toughened alumina, also known as ZTA can be used in applications, like sandblasting.
One of the advantages of ZTA is its cost effectiveness. It falls between the price range of Alumina and Zirconium making it more affordable compared to materials.Zirconia toughened alumina possesses properties that make it suitable for applications. Its enhanced fracture toughness makes it well suited for components that undergo impact loading.Another advantage of ZTA is its conductivity allowing efficient heat dissipation caused by friction. Additionally the sintering process results in a microstructure that enhances wear performance.To sum up zirconia toughened alumina is an cost effective material with beneficial properties for various industries. Its strength and toughness combined with excellent wear resistance and thermal conductivity make it an ideal choice in fields ranging from medical to manufacturing.