Zirconium Oxide

Zirconium oxide is a chemical compound with a chemical formula of ZrO2. It is often referred to as zirconia. It is white in appearance with a melting point of ~2,700°C, a density of 5.89 gcc, and a vapor pressure of 10-4 Torr at ~2,200°C. Due to its resistance to cracks, zirconium oxide is heavily utilized for ceramic production. Cubic zirconia, which is zirconium oxide in cubic crystalline form, is sold by jewelers as a low-cost alternative to diamonds. Zirconium oxide is evaporated under vacuum for optical coatings, semiconductors, and fuel cells.