Ceramics encompass such a vast array of materials that a concise definition is almost impossible.
However, one workable definition of ceramics is a refractory, inorganic, and non-metallic material. Ceramics can be divided into two classes: traditional and advanced.
Traditional ceramics include clay products, silicate glass and cement; while advanced ceramics. Consist of carbides (SIC), pure oxides (Al2O3 ), nitrides (Si3N4), non-silicate glasses and many others.
In general, ceramics have the following inherent properties:
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Hard (wear resistant)
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Resistant to plastic deformation
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Resistant to high temperatures
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Good corrosion resistance
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Low thermal conductivity
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Low electrical conductivity
However, some ceramics exhibit high thermal conductivity and/or high electrical conductivity. |
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The combination of these properties means that ceramics can provide:
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High wear resistance with low density
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Wear resistance in corrosive environments
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Corrosion resistance at high temperatures
Ceramics offer many advantages compared to other materials. They are harder and stiffer than steel; more heat and corrosion resistant than metals or polymers; less dense than most metals and their alloys; and their raw materials are both plentiful and inexpensive.
Ceramic materials display a wide range of properties which facilitate their use in many different product areas. |
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Aerospace: space shuttle tiles, thermal barriers, high temperature glass windows, fuel cells.
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Consumer Uses: glassware, windows, pottery, corning ware, magnets, dinnerware ceramic tiles, lenses, home electronics, microwave transducers.
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Automotive: catalytic converters, ceramic filters, airbag sensors, ceramic rotors, valves, spark plugs, pressure sensors, thermistors, vibration sensors, oxygen sensors, safety glass windshields, piston rings
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Medical (bio ceramics): orthopaedic joint replacement, prosthesis, dental restoration, bone implants
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Military: structural components for ground, air and naval vehicles, missiles, sensors
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Computers: insulators, resistors, superconductors, capacitors, ferroelectric components, microelectronic packaging
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Other industries: bricks, cement, membranes, and filters, lab equipment
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Communications: fibre optic/laser communications, TV and radio components microphones |
