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Zirconium Silicate

Zirconium Silicate for Industrial Applications
Zirconium silicate (ZrSiO₄) for industrial applications, available as sand, flour and micronised powder for ceramic, refractory and foundry applications.
Description

Zirconium silicate, also known as zircon, is a naturally occurring mineral with the chemical formula ZrSiO₄. It is an inert, high-density, solid characterised by notable hardness and exceptional thermal and chemical resistance, with a melting point above 2,200 °C. Its resistance to acids and alkalis makes it an extremely durable and stable material.

The production of zirconium silicate begins with the mining of mineral sands, followed by physical separation processes that isolate zircon from the mineral concentrate and reduce impurities. At PILATO, we process this mineral through different grinding and particle-size classification stages, marketing it as sand, flour or micronised powder according to the requirements of the end user. Low-radioactivity grades are also available.

Zircon Sand

The main application of zircon sand is as a feedstock for the production of zircon flour, micronised zircon (opacifier), zirconia (zirconium oxide), zirconium-based chemicals and zirconium metal. It is also used directly in foundry processes, refractory production and other smaller-scale industrial applications.

Zircon Flour

Zircon flour is produced by grinding zircon sand, typically in dry-process ball mills. It has a wide range of industrial uses, including the manufacture of ceramic frits and granules, foundry mould coatings, refractory materials, friction products and reinforcing fibreglass.

At PILATO, we offer standard grinds of 400, 325 and 200 mesh. Custom particle-size distributions are available upon request.

Micronised Zircon (Opacifier)

The primary market for micronised zircon is the ceramic industry. It is mainly used as a whitening and opacifying agent in wall and floor tile production, as well as in glazes, engobes and sanitaryware.

At PILATO, we offer standard particle sizes of 3, 4, 5 and 10 microns. Custom particle-size distributions are available upon request.

Its high refractive index is one of the properties that makes zircon an excellent opacifier, giving the finished product a bright, white and opaque appearance.

At PILATO, we supply:

  • Zircon flour: standard grinds of 400, 325 and 200 mesh. Available in bulk, 25 kg bags and big bags.
  • Micronised zircon (opacifier): standard particle sizes of 3, 4, 5 and 10 microns. Available in bulk, 25 kg bags and big bags.
  • Zircon sand: available in 25 kg bags and big bags.

Custom particle-size distributions can be supplied according to customer requirements.

Why choose PILATO as a supplier?

Partnering with PILATO means working with a supplier that has knowledge of the industrial environment and strong logistics capabilities. Our business focuses on offering:

Immediate availability

Immediate availability from our logistics facilities in Spain.

Compliance with Technical Requirements

Compliance with the technical requirements typically requested by our clients

Personalized service

Local presence and personalized service to coordinate deliveries and address sales-related questions.

Commitment

Commitment to traceability, consistency across batches, and a stable supply.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Zirconium Silicate

What sets PILATO apart as a supplier of zirconium silicate?

We are in direct contact with the world’s leading mines and operate one of Europe’s largest processing and storage facilities at our site in Cheste (Valencia, Spain).

We specialize in dry grinding of zirconium sand, producing zirconium flour and micronized zirconium.

Yes. We offer a variety of grades, including products with low radioactivity, to meet specific regulations and manufacturers’ requirements.

We have a well-established quality system, our own laboratory to verify technical requirements, and complete product traceability from origin to delivery.

Yes. We have ample storage capacity and a fast, reliable logistics service for shipments to Spain, Europe, and other international markets.

Yes. We provide samples, detailed technical documentation, and customized quotes.

Should we talk? Contact us for more information

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