Advanced Ceramics Overview
At Unitec Ceramics Ltd, in the UK, UCM produces a range of stabilised zirconia powders for use in the manufacture of structural and functional advanced ceramics. All Unitec powders are manufactured by an advanced electro-fusion process followed by precision comminution and sizing. Unitec powders are produced in a range of chemistries from monoclinic to powders stabilised to varying degrees with magnesia, yttria, calcia, ceria or Scandia. Other oxides can be employed on a collaborative basis.
Typical advanced ceramics applications for Unitec powders include
- Pump and valve components
- Paper and textile knives
- Tools and dies
- Nozzles
- Cutting tools
- Automotive components
- Filtration membranes
- Watch bezels and bracelets
- Oxygen sensors
- Solid oxide fuel cells
- Fibre optic cable connectors
The unique characteristics of Unitec powders makes them suitable for a range of fabrication techniques including –
- Uniaxial pressing
- Injection moulding
- Extrusion
- Electrostatic deposition
- Isostatic pressing
- Tape casting
- Screen-printing
Why choose Unitec zirconia powders?
- High homogeneity as might be expected from a fully reacted powder
- Dense crystallites
- Low specific surface area
- High solids loading
- Low binder content in spray-dried powder
- Low emissions on binder burn-out
- Low firing shrinkage
- Fast fire capability
Unitec produces zirconia powders in a range of chemistries and particle sizes. Some of the more commonly-specified ones are shown below. Information on others is available on request. If required, Unitec powders are available in spray-dried, ready-to-press form.
