zirconiahttp://www.oed.com/dictionary/zirconia_n%3Ftab%3Dmeaning_and_usezirconia, n.
Revised 2021

zirconianoun

Chemistry.
  1. 1794–
    A white solid, zirconium dioxide, which is made by heating zirconium compounds in contact with air and is used in ceramic glazes and heat-resistant coatings.
    Formula: ZrO2. Zirconia occurs naturally as the mineral baddeleyite.
     
    cubic zirconia: see cubic adj.
    1. 1794
      According to Klaproth, it yielded by analysis 68 grains of circonia, 31 grains of siliceous earths, one grain of iron.
      J. G. Schmeisser, System of Mineralogy vol. I. 57
    2. 1800
      When exposed to a violent heat, zirconia [French la zircone] becomes fused, and assumes a somewhat greyish colour.
      translation of E. J. B. Bouillon-Lagrange, Manual of Course of Chemistry vol. I. 160
    3. 1812
      Zircona is soluble in the mineral acids.
      H. Davy, Elements of Chemical Philosophy 361
    4. 1872
      The oxyhydrogen light..attains a still higher intensity, if a piece of magnesium or zirconia be substituted for the cylinder of lime.
      J. Lassell & C. Lassell, translation of H. Schellen, Spectrum Analysis 19
    5. 1938
      Zirconia..melts above 2000°C., and can be used for crucibles and furnace linings, but is too expensive for common use.
      R. Hum, Chemistry for Engineering Students xxv. 691
    6. 1999
      When zirconia is vacuum brazed, it undergoes significant (and unsightly) discoloration due to the diffusion of oxygen from the zirconia.
      Global Ceramic Review Autumn 28/2

zirconia, n. was revised in March 2021.

zirconia, n. was last modified in March 2025.