Phosphoceramic Constructional Materials

Zirconyl pyrophosphate, (ZrO)2P207, mp = 2070°C, p = 3.88 g/cc, is stable up to about 1600 C, and calcium orthophosphate, Ca3(P04)2 which melts at 1820°C, can be used for some purposes at temperatures up to 1600°C. The zirconyl compound, which loses P2O5 above 1600°C, has potential use as a low-expansion ceramic, although its strength is rather limited [3]. Up to llOO C the net expansion is 1.7 x 10 C (Table 12.27). Zirconyl pyrophosphate is a good electrical insulator and its dielectric constant is similar to that of alumina [4]. Solid solutions of composition Ca Sr,. Zr4(P04)g and Zr 2-Nx i show almost zero thermal expansion over a considerable temperature range, and are promising materials for future application (see below). 

A dense ceramic with electrical properties similar to those of fused silica, but with a higher operating temperature, can be made from 45% BPO4 -1- 55% Si02. 

---