Zirconium fluoride is white crystal or powder. It is insoluble in water, however soluble in hydrofluoric acid. Zirconium tetrachloride is the raw material.
ZrF4 is a versatile compound known for its low refractive index, excellent transparency in the infrared (IR) spectrum, and thermal stability, making it a valuable material in the fields of optical fiber production, specialty glass manufacturing, and protective coatings for high-temperature applications. Due to its unique properties, ZrF4 has become essential in advanced optical and industrial technologies requiring clarity, durability, and performance in challenging environments.
Zirconium Fluoride
| CAS No.:7783-64-4 | EINECS No.:232-018-1 | Molecualr Formula:ZrF4 | Molecular Weight:167.21 |
| Melting Point:640℃ | Refractive Index:1.59 | Density:4.6 | UN 3260 8/PG 2 |
Applications
Zirconium tetrafluoride is mainly for optics.
In optical fiber production, ZrF4 is a critical component of fluoride glass fibers, which are highly effective in transmitting infrared light. These ZrF4-based fibers have extremely low optical loss, making them ideal for long-distance communication, medical imaging, and environmental monitoring, where high-quality infrared transmission is required. ZrF4 fibers are especially useful in applications where traditional silica-based fibers are limited due to signal loss or thermal instability.
In glass manufacturing, ZrF4 is essential in producing fluoride-based specialty glasses, which are widely used in high-precision optics and lasery systems. Fluoride glasses made with ZrF4 are characterized by low dispersion and excellent IR transparency, supporting the creation of optical lenses and components with high clarity and minimal chromatic aberration. These glasses are utilized in scientific instruments, telescopes, and laser equipment, where clarity and light transmission are critical for accurate results.
Additionally, ZrF4 finds application in high-temperature protective coatings. Its thermal stability and resistance to chemical corrosion make ZrF4 a suitable material for coatings on components exposed to extreme conditions, such as in aerospace and industrial machinery. These coatings help protect surfaces from oxidation and thermal degradation, extending the life and reliability of high-performance parts.