Zirconium(IV) Silicate
Other Names: Zircon, Zirconium(4+) orthosilicate, Zirconium(IV) orthosilicate
CAS Number: 10101-52-7
Chemical Formula: ZrSiO₄
Molar Mass: 183.31 g/mol
Appearance: White to off-white crystalline powder

Zirconium(IV) silicate, commonly known as zircon, is an inorganic compound composed of zirconium, silicon, and oxygen. It naturally occurs as the mineral zircon and is widely used in various industrial and material science applications due to its high thermal stability and resistance to chemical corrosion.

Chemical and Physical Properties

• Density: ~4.56 g/cm³

• Melting Point: ~2550°C

• Boiling Point: Not applicable (sublimes or decomposes)

• Solubility: Insoluble in water and most acids

• Hardness: 6.5–7.5 on the Mohs scale

• Refractive Index: ~1.92

Applications

• Ceramics and Refractories: Used in the production of high-temperature ceramic materials, tiles, glazes, and porcelain due to its stability and whiteness.

• Foundry Industry: Applied as a refractory material in molds and cores for casting metals.

• Pigments and Coatings: Serves as an opacifier in enamel and pigment formulations.

• Nuclear Industry: Sometimes used in zirconium-based materials for its resistance to radiation damage.

• Abrasives and Polishing: Its hardness makes it suitable as a fine abrasive in polishing formulations.

Functional Benefits

• High resistance to heat and thermal shock

• Chemically inert in most environments

• Improves mechanical and aesthetic properties of ceramic products

• Contributes to whiteness and opacity in coatings and glazes

Safety

• Signal Word: None

• GHS Classification: Not classified as hazardous under GHS

• Precautionary Measures:

  • Avoid inhalation of fine dust

  • Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) during handling

  • Store in a dry, well-ventilated place