Calcine

To calcine is to heat a substance, typically a solid inorganic material, to a high temperature but below its melting point. This process drives off volatile substances like water, carbon dioxide, or sulfur, leaving behind a more stable and often powdered product. Calcination often alters the physical and chemical properties of the original material, increasing its density, changing its color, or making it more porous. It is commonly used in the production of lime from limestone, the recovery of metals, and the processing of ceramics. The process typically occurs in a kiln, furnace, or rotary calciner. Controlled calcination is crucial for achieving desired material characteristics.

Calcine meaning with examples

• The ceramic artist carefully calcinated the clay at 900 degrees Celsius to remove all moisture and organic matter, ensuring the pottery would be strong and durable. The resulting clay was then ground into a fine powder. This initial calcination stage was crucial for the clay's final properties. Failure to properly calcine would lead to structural weaknesses and cracking during the firing process.
• In metallurgy, the ore was calcinated to remove sulfur impurities and convert the metal sulfides into oxides before further refining. This process freed the desired metal from its chemical compounds. High temperatures were sustained within the kiln during calcination, which was carefully monitored to ensure complete removal of the undesirable compounds and oxidation of the target metal.
• The chemical engineer used calcination on the calcium carbonate to produce quicklime (calcium oxide) for industrial purposes. The decomposition of the calcium carbonate, brought on by calcination, released carbon dioxide. This calcination process was carefully regulated to control the purity and particle size of the resulting quicklime for its application.
• To improve its properties, the waste material underwent a specialized calcination process at a moderate temperature, which allowed for the capture and removal of volatile components. The resulting product was less susceptible to breakdown. The duration of calcination and the controlled temperature were essential for the final desired characteristics of the transformed waste material, allowing it to be repurposed.