Pyrolysis – Decomposition of materials at raised temperatures in reduced levels of oxygen

PRONUNCIATION

(Pronounced pie-rol-uh-sis)

To remember the definition of the word pyrolysis, use the following mnemonic:

The pie was rolled up this mountain (pyrolysis). It was left in the heat of the sun and there was a lack of oxygen so the pie decomposed.

Note:

The process of heating organic material at high temperature in reduced levels of oxygen is distinct from combustion, which needs oxygen.

Examples of pyrolysis in a sentence

A new generation of pyrolysis plants would need to produce much more electricity from the same amount of waste as handled by current pyrolysis plants.

In an ideal case, pyrolysis consists of one decomposition reaction at an elevated temperature.

The rate of both reactions increased at higher temperatures of pyrolysis.