Oxidation of ZrB2 Nanoparticles at High Temperature under Low Oxygen Pressure.

The oxidation of ZrB2 nanoparticles was observed at high temperature of 1500°C under low oxygen partial pressure of 5 × 10−2 Pa by an environmental transmission electron microscope. The results demonstrate that the oxidation starts on the surface of ZrB2 nanoparticles with decomposition of ZrB2 into ZrO2 and B2 O3. The nucleation and growth of ZrO2 on the surface of ZrB2 proceed with B2 O3 being evaporated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]