Zirconium silicide, specifically zirconium disilicide (ZrSi₂), is an important intermetallic compound valued for its unique combination of properties. It appears as a dark gray to black solid, often in powder form. ZrSi₂ possesses a characteristic orthorhombic crystal structure. Synthesis typically involves direct reaction between zirconium and silicon powders at high temperatures, often exceeding 1000°C, using techniques like arc melting or chemical vapor deposition (CVD). It exhibits excellent thermal stability, maintaining its integrity at temperatures up to roughly 1600-1700°C in inert atmospheres. ZrSi₂ is a good electrical conductor, sometimes classified as a degenerate semiconductor. It also demonstrates good thermal conductivity and significant hardness, contributing to its wear resistance. Crucially, it forms a protective silica (SiO₂) layer when exposed to oxidizing environments, offering reasonable oxidation resistance up to about 1200°C. Its primary application lies within the semiconductor industry, where its conductivity and stability make it a candidate material for contacts and gate electrodes in advanced integrated circuits. Beyond microelectronics, ZrSi₂ finds niche uses in high-temperature structural components, protective coatings for aerospace applications, and as a potential material for thermoelectric devices due to its specific electronic properties. Handling zirconium silicide powder requires caution as fine particles can be pyrophoric, igniting spontaneously in air. Overall, zirconium silicide is a robust, high-performance material critical for demanding applications requiring stability, conductivity, and durability at elevated temperatures.

(zirconium silicide)

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