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transformation-toughened zirconia
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Figure 1: Resistance to cracking in transformation-toughened zirconia. In a ceramic composed of tetragonal zirconia dispersed in a zirconia matrix, the stress field advancing ahead of a propagating crack transforms the small tetragonal particles to larger monoclinic particles. The larger particles exert a crack-closing force in the process zone behind the crack tip, effectively resisting propagation of the crack.
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transformation-toughened zirconia

ceramics
Also known as: TTZ, ceramic steel
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Figure 1: Resistance to cracking in transformation-toughened zirconia. In a ceramic composed of tetragonal zirconia dispersed in a zirconia matrix, the stress field advancing ahead of a propagating crack transforms the small tetragonal particles to larger monoclinic particles. The larger particles exert a crack-closing force in the process zone behind the crack tip, effectively resisting propagation of the crack.
Figure 1: Resistance to cracking in transformation-toughened zirconia. In a ceramic composed of tetragonal zirconia dispersed in a zirconia matrix, the stress field advancing ahead of a propagating crack transforms the small tetragonal particles to larger monoclinic particles. The larger particles exert a crack-closing force in the process zone behind the crack tip, effectively resisting propagation of the crack.

Transformation-toughened zirconia (TTZ) is a type of advanced structural ceramic known for its enhanced mechanical properties, particularly toughness, which makes it resistant to wear and fracture. Unlike conventional ceramics, which are brittle, TTZ utilizes a phase transformation mechanism to absorb energy and resist crack propagation.12

This toughening occurs when stress at the tip of a crack triggers a transformation in embedded zirconia particles. This transformation causes a volume expansion that exerts a closing force on the crack, thereby strengthening the material. This property allows TTZ to withstand significant stress and impact, making it comparable to steel in its strain response, earning it the nickname "ceramic steel". Due to its wear resistance, TTZ is used in demanding applications such as mineral processing equipment, pump parts, and valve components.12

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2 Britannica Sources
  1. advanced structural ceramics
  2. tribological ceramics

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