Uses of Chempure Zirconia Boats
Zirconia boats, particularly those stabilized with 8 mol% yttria, have several specialized applications due to their high-temperature stability, chemical inertness, and mechanical strength. Here are some common uses:
High-Temperature Melting: Zirconia boats are often used for melting metals and other materials at temperatures up to 2000°C. Their high melting point and thermal stability make them suitable for such applications.
Chemical Processing: In chemical laboratories and industries, zirconia boats are used to hold materials during reactions that require high temperatures. Their chemical inertness ensures that they do not react with the substances being processed.
Thermal Analysis: Zirconia boats are used in thermal analysis techniques, such as thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and differential thermal analysis (DTA). Their ability to withstand high temperatures and their chemical inertness make them ideal for these applications.
Material Synthesis: They are used in the synthesis of advanced materials, including ceramics and composites, where high-temperature processing is required.
Laboratory Applications: In research laboratories, zirconia boats are used for a variety of high-temperature applications, including sintering, annealing, and calcination of samples.
Crucibles for Fusion: They serve as crucibles in processes that involve the fusion of minerals and other materials at high temperatures.
Zirconia Wares
Zirconia wares are made from ceramic materials, which are inorganic, non-metallic compounds often consisting of crystalline oxides, nitrides, or carbides. Elements like carbon or silicon can also be considered ceramics. These materials are characterized by their brittleness, hardness, and strong compressive strength, but they are weak in shear and tension. Ceramics excel in resisting chemical erosion, making them suitable for use in acidic or caustic environments. They can withstand extremely high temperatures, typically ranging from 1,000 °C to 1,600 °C (1,800 °F to 3,000 °F).
Properties and Applications:
Bulk Density: 6 gm/cc
Working Temperature: Up to 2000°C
Stabilization: 8 mol% Yttria
Tolerance: +/- 2%
Zirconia wares are ideal for applications requiring high-temperature stability and resistance to thermal shock. They are commonly used in:
Laboratories: For high-temperature reactions and material processing.
Industrial Furnaces: As containers or supports for materials subjected to extreme heat.
Chemical Processing: Due to their resistance to corrosion and chemical erosion.
Care and Handling:
To ensure the longevity and performance of zirconia crucibles, follow these guidelines:
Avoid Overloading: Do not load excessive material into zirconia crucibles, as this increases the risk of uneven heating and potential damage.
Temperature Ramp Rates: Maintain a slow ramp rate and cooling rate to minimize thermal shock. Specifically:
Do not exceed 3°C/min during the sensitive temperature ranges of 100°C to 300°C and 1050°C to 1200°C.
In other temperature ranges, the rate can be faster but should remain below 5°C/min.
Cooling: Avoid removing the crucible from the furnace at high temperatures, as this can cause cracking. Ideally, remove it when the temperature is below 100°C.
Heating Methods: Do not heat zirconia crucibles with a torch or in furnaces that cannot control the rate of temperature change. Uneven heating can lead to cracking.
By adhering to these care guidelines, zirconia wares can provide reliable performance in high-temperature and chemically aggressive environments, making them invaluable in both industrial and laboratory settings.