Choosing ceramics for corrosive environments

This paper discusses some of the factors which need to be considered when choosing an engineering ceramic for applications involving corrosive high temperature conditions. These include the temperature limit of the ceramic, its ability to stand the temperature changes involved, its stability towards the atmospheres and corrosive agents encountered, and the feasibility of producing the component with the shape and dimensions required. Some examples of degradation are discussed and the criteria for material selection are summarised. (author)