The most common use for silicon nitride wafers is in hard masks
What is Silicon nitrides?Silicon nitrides (Si3N4) feature an excellent combination of material properties. The microstructure consists of elongated crystals that interlock into micro-rods. One application where this combination of properties has proven particularly useful is the machining of gray cast iron or cast iron with ceramic inserts. The combination of good tribological properties and excellent fracture toughness makes silicon nitride ceramics predestined for applications as balls and rol