What is the difference between functional and structural ceramics?

1, The application is different: structural ceramics are mainly used in mechanical, thermal and some chemical functions of ceramic products; Functional ceramics are mainly used in non-mechanical properties of ceramic materials and products, this kind of materials have one or more functions.

 

2, The types are different: the types of structural ceramics are ceramic center rod, ceramic needle gauge needle plug, ceramic plate, ceramic tube sleeve, etc. There are many kinds of functional ceramics with different uses, such as conductive ceramics, semiconductor ceramics and other electronic materials according to the differences in the electrical properties of ceramics.

The difference between use and function, the difference between physical and chemical properties and so on.

 htw.jpg

1, the difference between use and function: structural ceramics are mainly used to withstand mechanical stress and provide structural support applications. With high strength, high hardness and wear resistance, it is suitable for applications where pressure, impact and friction are to be withstands, such as industrial parts, tools and engine components. Functional ceramics are ceramic materials designed to meet specific functional requirements. It has special properties, such as electrical conductivity, insulation, magnetism, optical properties, etc. Functional ceramics can be used in areas such as electronics, sensors, catalysts, and optics to achieve a specific function or performance.

 

2, the difference between physical and chemical properties: structural ceramics have high hardness, high strength and wear resistance and other physical properties, as well as high temperature resistance and chemical stability and other chemical properties. The properties enable structural ceramics to maintain their structural integrity and performance stability under harsh environmental conditions. The physical and chemical properties of functional ceramics vary according to their specific functional requirements. For example, ceramics with conductive functions have low resistivity and good electrical conductivity, while ceramics with optical functions have specific refractive index and transparency.

 

It is not possible to generalize which ceramics are better, because they each have different characteristics and advantages and disadvantages, should be selected according to the specific application field and needs.

 

1. Characteristics of structural ceramics and functional ceramics

Structural ceramics, also known as engineering ceramics, are based on alumina, zirconia, silicate and other main raw materials, through high temperature sintering, cold isostatic pressing and other processes made with high hardness, high strength, high wear resistance, high temperature resistance, corrosion resistance and other excellent properties of ceramic materials. Structural ceramics have excellent physical properties and mechanical properties, which are suitable for the production of high-precision machining, high-wear parts, mechanical seals, bulletproof materials and other fields.

Functional ceramics, also known as advanced ceramics, are a class of ceramic materials with specific functions and special properties, such as superconducting, piezoelectric, magnetic, optical, sensing, catalytic, biomedical and other properties. Functional ceramics have broad application prospects, suitable for the production of electronics, information, aviation, medical, energy and other fields of high-tech products.

 

2. Advantages and disadvantages of structural ceramics and functional ceramics

The advantages of structural ceramics are: high hardness, good wear resistance, corrosion resistance, high temperature resistance, good heat resistance, and good chemical stability; The disadvantages are: fragile, poor processability, mostly bulk system products, high preparation cost.

 

The advantages of functional ceramics are: they have special physical, chemical, electrical, optical, magnetic and other properties, and have a variety of unique applications, such as biological materials, shock absorption materials, catalyst materials, sensors, superconductors and other fields; The disadvantage is that the preparation is difficult and the cost is relatively high.

 

3. Application of structural ceramics and functional ceramics

Structural ceramics are suitable for the production of high strength, wear resistance, corrosion resistance, high temperature and other parts, such as engines, friction materials, valves, cutting tools, ductile iron coating, ceramic tools, etc. Functional ceramics are suitable for the production of electronics, optics, information, energy, medical, environmental protection, aviation, aerospace and other products in the high-tech field. For example: high temperature superconductors, piezoelectric ceramics, magnetic ceramics, biomedical ceramics, fuel cell ceramics, etc.

 

4, the selection of structural ceramics and functional ceramics

Structural ceramics and functional ceramics have their own advantages and application fields, can not be generalized which is better, should be considered according to the actual application needs and costs. For example, if you need to make high-strength, wear-resistant parts, choose structural ceramics; If you need to make high-tech products in the fields of electronics, sensing, biomedicine, environmental protection, etc., choose functional ceramics.


Tags