Deoxidise

Deoxidise is a term used to describe the process of removing oxygen from a substance. This can be achieved through various chemical or physical methods. In chemistry, deoxidation often involves the use of reducing agents that react with and remove oxygen atoms from a compound. For example, in metallurgy, deoxidizing agents are added to molten metal to remove dissolved oxygen, which can improve the metal's properties and prevent defects. Common deoxidizers in steelmaking include silicon, aluminum, and manganese.

In a broader context, deoxidise can also refer to the removal of oxides, which are compounds formed when a substance reacts with oxygen. This might involve mechanical abrasion or chemical treatment to strip away surface oxide layers. For instance, cleaning tarnished metal objects often involves a deoxidizing process to restore their original luster. The specific method used for deoxidation depends heavily on the material being treated and the desired outcome. The goal is generally to prevent unwanted oxidation or to restore a material to a more reduced state.