Silicon nitride is widely used in high-performance engineering applications due to its exceptional thermal, mechanical, and chemical stability. It is a key material in ceramic bearings, especially in high-speed and high-temperature environments where steel bearings would fail. Its low thermal expansion and high fracture toughness make it ideal for automotive and aerospace components such as turbocharger rotors, engine parts, and heat shields.

In the electronics industry, silicon nitride serves as a passivation and insulation layer in integrated circuits and semiconductor devices, protecting against moisture and mechanical damage. It is also used in cutting tools for machining hard metals, offering longer tool life and higher cutting speeds compared to traditional materials.

Additionally, silicon nitride finds use in medical applications, particularly in spinal implants, due to its biocompatibility and wear resistance. Its ability to withstand thermal shock also makes it suitable for components in industrial burners and welding equipment.