pyrolysis

noun

py·​rol·​y·​sis pī-ˈrä-lə-səs How to pronounce pyrolysis (audio)
: chemical change brought about by the action of heat
pyrolytic adjective
pyrolytically adverb

Examples of pyrolysis in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Other chemical recycling methods, such as pyrolysis and gasification, have drawn environmental and health concerns because the plastic is heated, which can release toxic fumes. Alex Jordan, The Conversation, 16 Apr. 2025 The pyrolysis process that liquefies plastic at temperatures close to 290 degrees Celsius (554 degrees Fahrenheit) can unfurl toxic byproducts, such as antimony, benzene or toluene. Jasmin Malik Chua, Sourcing Journal, 4 Apr. 2025 Benefits of pyrolysis When done effectively, plastic pyrolysis offers several benefits. Alexander Kaplitz, The Conversation, 18 Mar. 2025 The gases produced during pyrolysis can even generate energy that fuels the pyrolysis reactor, making the process more self-sustaining and reducing the need for external energy sources. Alexander Kaplitz, The Conversation, 18 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for pyrolysis

Word History

Etymology

New Latin

First Known Use

circa 1890, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of pyrolysis was circa 1890

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Cite this Entry

“Pyrolysis.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pyrolysis. Accessed 28 Apr. 2025.

Medical Definition

pyrolysis

noun
py·​rol·​y·​sis pī-ˈräl-ə-səs How to pronounce pyrolysis (audio)
plural pyrolyses -ˌsēz How to pronounce pyrolysis (audio)
: chemical change brought about by the action of heat
pyrolytic adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on pyrolysis

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