HITO®’s research and development laboratory, located in Barcelona and specialized in the field of advanced ceramic materials, presents its latest development: AZ Nanobeads. AZ Nanobeads address the demanding grinding processes that, until now, required the use of zirconium microbeads.

AZ Nanobeads are manufactured using the latest developments in structured nanomaterial manufacturing processes. They are characterized by being nanocrystalline compounds with an alumina matrix reinforced with a dispersion of ceramic particles that constitute a distinct second crystalline phase, thus generating a ceramic nanocomposite. Furthermore, the implementation of double sintering processes, used in bio-nanotechnology, has produced a product with a homogeneous microstructure of alumina microcrystals, with a complete absence of porosity and imperfections, allowing for a perfectly spherical grinding medium with excellent mechanical properties and wear resistance.

AZ Nanobeads are currently being used continuously by manufacturers in various sectors, who have confirmed their low wear levels, comparable only to the wear levels of zirconium microspheres, but at a much more affordable price. At the same time, significant cost savings are achieved due to the different packing of both types of balls, generating a significant reduction in grinding costs.

AZ Nanobeads are specially formulated for use in high-energy grinding processes, where a high degree of fineness is required, reaching nanometric sizes. Therefore, very high-speed mills are used in various sectors such as ceramic inks, paint, advanced ceramics, mining, cosmetics, the pharmaceutical industry, and more.