Carbonize Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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carbonize
[ˈkɑːrbənaɪz ]
Definition
chemical process
To carbonize means to convert organic material into carbon or substances rich in carbon by heating it in the absence of oxygen. This process is frequently employed in various industries to create charcoal or activated carbon from wood or other biomass. Carbonization is critical in the manufacturing of certain materials, such as carbon fiber, and in environmental applications, like waste management. The process involves thermal decomposition, leading to the removal of volatile compounds while retaining the carbon structure.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- They decided to carbonize the wood to produce charcoal.
- The factory carbonizes organic debris to create useful products.
- Carbonizing the material increases its efficacy as a filter.
Translations
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Origin of 'carbonize'
The term 'carbonize' originates from the mid-19th century, deriving from the word 'carbon', which itself comes from the Latin 'carbo', meaning 'coal' or 'charcoal'. The use of 'carbon' in chemical contexts gained traction during the early development of organic chemistry. The prefix 'carbon-' denotes the essential element involved in this process. Over time, 'carbonize' has evolved to encompass not just the creation of charcoal but also the broader transformation of organic materials into carbon-rich substances through pyrolysis. This terminological evolution reflects advancements in industrial processes and a growing understanding of chemical interactions in materials science.