Applying the general effective media (GEM) approach for analyzing the thermal conductivity of ZrO-8YSZ composites.

Zirconia (ZrO2) and yttria-stabilized-zirconia (YSZ) are known as advanced oxides, widely applied in gas-turbine engines, fuel cells and other applications, requiring controlled thermal conductivity values. In the current research hot-pressed ZrO2-8YSZ composites, were synthesized. The effect of the three apparent phases, 8YSZ, ZrO2 and the pores on the thermal conductivity was analyzed using the general effective media (GEM) approach, while considering their relative amounts and morphology.

Internal Nano Voids in Yttria-Stabilised Zirconia (YSZ) Powder.

Porous yttria-stabilised zirconia ceramics have been gaining popularity throughout the years in various fields, such as energy, environment, medicine, etc. Although yttria-stabilised zirconia is a well-studied material, voided yttria-stabilised zirconia powder particles have not been demonstrated yet, and might play an important role in future technology developments. A sol-gel synthesis accompanied by a freeze-drying process is currently being proposed as a method of obtaining sponge-like nano morphology of embedded faceted voids inside yttria-stabilised zirconia particles.