ceramicoxide

Ceramic oxide, sometimes written ceramicoxide, is a broad class of inorganic, non-metallic solids composed primarily of metal oxides. In typical formulations, the material forms a ceramic lattice of oxide ions and metal cations, usually produced as polycrystalline bodies with high thermal and chemical stability. The category encompasses binary oxides such as silicon dioxide (SiO2), alumina (Al2O3), titania (TiO2), magnesia (MgO), and zirconia (ZrO2), as well as complex mixed oxides and functional oxides used in electronics and optics.

Properties of ceramic oxides generally include high hardness, high melting points, chemical inertness, and low electrical conductivity. Many are insulating, although some oxides are semiconducting, ferroelectric, or superconducting depending on composition and crystal structure. Densification through sintering and controlled microstructure yield dense, mechanically robust materials, while grain size, porosity, and phase balance tailor properties for specific applications.

Manufacture commonly involves solid-state synthesis, sol–gel and hydrothermal routes, and deposition techniques such as chemical vapor deposition or atomic layer deposition. Shaping methods include pressing, casting, tape casting, and extrusion, followed by sintering to achieve densification and the desired microstructure. Additive manufacturing is an emerging route for oxide ceramics as well.

Applications of ceramic oxides span structural components in aerospace and tooling, thermal barrier coatings, dielectric and electronic devices, catalyst supports, sensors, and transparent ceramics for optics. Ongoing research seeks oxide ceramics with improved toughness, lower density, and enhanced functional properties, including nanostructured oxides and oxide-based composites.