zirconia
/zəːˈkəʊnɪə
/noun [mass noun]
Zirconium dioxide, a white solid used in ceramic glazes and refractory coatings, and as a synthetic substitute for diamonds in jewellery.
- Chemical formula: ZrO2.
- Compounds which are used for advanced ceramics include aluminum oxide and zirconia.
- One concept proposed by researchers at the University of Washington uses zirconia crystals and electricity to convert carbon dioxide into carbon monoxide and oxygen, which can then be used as rocket propellant.
Origin
Late 18th century: from zircon + -ia1.