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Vitrified Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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vitrified

[หˆvษชtrษชfaษชd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

material science

Vitrified refers to a material that has been transformed into a glass-like substance through the process of vitrification. This process involves heating the material to a high temperature until it melts and then allowing it to cool, which creates a dense and often impervious final product. Vitrified materials are commonly used in construction and pottery because of their resistance to water and durability. They are also less porous than non-vitrified counterparts, making them ideal for various applications.

Synonyms

fused, glass-like, glassy, solidified.

Examples of usage

  • Vitrified tiles are popular in bathrooms due to their water resistance.
  • The vitrified clay used in pipe-making enhances durability.
  • Vitrified glass has a low thermal expansion coefficient.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Science

  • Vitrification is a critical process in nuclear waste management, converting toxic materials into a stable, glass-like substance.
  • In pottery, the vitrification of clay during firing improves its strength and watertightness.
  • This process occurs naturally during volcanic eruptions where lava cools quickly and forms glassy rock called obsidian.

Art and Architecture

  • Artisans in ancient cultures used vitrified materials to create stunning tiles and pottery, sought after for their beauty and durability.
  • Modern architecture often uses vitrified tiles for both aesthetic appeal and functional durability in flooring and facades.

History

  • The technique of vitrification dates back thousands of years, with early examples seen in Egyptian glassmaking.
  • In the Middle Ages, glassmakers advanced the process, making intricate glass vessels that were both practical and decorative.

Environmental Implications

  • Vitrification is being explored as a method to store carbon dioxide in a solid glass state, potentially aiding in climate change mitigation.
  • This technique is promising in the recycling of glass materials, lowering the demand for new raw materials while reducing landfill waste.

Origin of 'vitrified'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'vitrum', meaning glass, emphasizing its glass-like qualities.
  • It has been used in English since the early 19th century to describe materials that have undergone transformation through heat.

The term 'vitrified' originates from the Latin word 'vitrum', meaning 'glass'. It started to gain prominence in English in the early 19th century as advancements in material sciences were made, particularly in ceramics and construction materials. Vitrification became a crucial process in the production of durable building materials and artistic ceramics, as it allows for the manipulation of minerals to create strong, water-resistant objects. Over time, the term has expanded to cover various fields, including geology, where it describes the process by which volcanic ash can solidify into a glassy substance when rapidly cooling. This historical evolution of the term reflects the increasing understanding and utilization of heat and material properties in technology and the arts.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,645, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.