Carbonize
(verb)
To convert a substance, especially wood or organic matter, into carbon or a carbon-rich residue by heating it in the absence of air.
Origin:
Derived from the word "carbon", from the latin word "carbo" which means "coal".
Examples:
- The process of carbonizing wood involves heating it in a kiln to drive off volatile compounds and leave a solid residue of carbon.
- Carbonizing can also be used to convert other organic materials, such as animal bones or peat, into a carbon-rich form.
- The carbonized material can be used as fuel, as a source of activated carbon, or as a raw material in the production of chemicals.
- Carbonizing is an important step in the production of biochar, a carbon-rich soil amendment used to improve soil fertility.
- Carbonizing is also used in the production of charcoal, a solid fuel made from wood or other organic materials that has been carbonized.