Chemurgy: meaning, definitions and examples

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chemurgy

 

[ˈkɛmərdʒi ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

industrial chemistry

Chemurgy refers to the branch of chemistry that deals with the application of chemical processes and principles to produce useful products from agricultural materials. It focuses on the transformation of biomass into chemical products, aiming to provide alternatives to petrochemical processes. Chemurgy plays a significant role in the development of various sustainable materials and biofuels, thereby contributing to environmental conservation. The term was first popularized in the early 20th century as a response to the growing need for sustainable practices in industrial chemistry.

Synonyms

biochemistry, green chemistry, sustainable chemistry.

Examples of usage

  • Chemurgy is vital in biofuel production.
  • The chemurgy of plant materials has advanced recently.
  • Scientists study chemurgy for renewable resources.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term combines 'chemistry' and 'urgy,' which comes from the Greek word 'ergon,' meaning work.
  • It was first used in the 1930s to describe the chemical processes related to agriculture.

Historical Context

  • Chemurgy gained prominence during World War II, as shortages prompted exploration of alternative materials.
  • The development of synthetic fibers and plastics was significantly influenced by chemurgical processes.

Industry Applications

  • It plays a crucial role in creating biodegradable plastics and sustainable materials from renewable resources.
  • Pharmaceuticals also benefit from chemurgy by developing drugs from plant materials.

Environmental Impact

  • This field helps reduce reliance on non-renewable resources, contributing to a greener planet.
  • Chemurgy can lead to innovative waste management solutions by transforming agricultural byproducts into valuable materials.

Cultural Significance

  • The rise of eco-friendly movements has brought renewed interest in chemurgy as a means to promote sustainability.
  • Artisans use chemurgical techniques to create eco-conscious products that appeal to environmentally-aware consumers.

Translations

Translations of the word "chemurgy" in other languages:

🇵🇹 química aplicada

🇮🇳 रासायनिक उद्योग

🇩🇪 Chemie

🇮🇩 kimia terapan

🇺🇦 хемургія

🇵🇱 chemurgia

🇯🇵 化学工業

🇫🇷 chimie appliquée

🇪🇸 química aplicada

🇹🇷 kimya mühendisliği

🇰🇷 응용 화학

🇸🇦 الكيمياء التطبيقية

🇨🇿 chemurgie

🇸🇰 chemurgia

🇨🇳 化学应用

🇸🇮 kemurgija

🇮🇸 efnafræði

🇰🇿 химургия

🇬🇪 ქიმიური ტექნოლოგია

🇦🇿 kimya mühəndisliyi

🇲🇽 química aplicada