Sulfated zirconia is a type of solid acid catalyst that consists of zirconium dioxide (ZrO2) treated with sulfate ions (SO42-). This treatment enhances the acidic properties of zirconia, making it an effective catalyst for various chemical reactions. The material is known for its high acidity, thermal stability, and ability to catalyze a range of transformations, including isomerization, alkylation, and esterification.