Tihendumine

Tihendumine is the process of becoming more dense or compact, derived from Estonian tihedus (density) and the noun-forming suffix -umine, which marks an action or process. It describes a transition in which volume is reduced, porosity decreases, or particles become more tightly arranged.

In geology and soil science, tihendumine refers to sediment compaction or consolidation under overlying pressure. This reduces pore space, increases bulk density, and often decreases permeability. It can be influenced by loading, burial depth, moisture, temperature, and particle size distribution. Over geological timescales, tihendumine contributes to lithification and the formation of sedimentary rock.

In engineering and materials science, tihendumine encompasses densification processes such as powder compaction, shaping under pressure, and sintering. The degree of densification affects mechanical strength, elastic properties, and diffusion pathways. Process parameters like pressure, temperature, time, and particle characteristics are used to control the final density and microstructure.

In everyday Estonian usage, tihendumine can describe any act of making something more dense or compact, including packing or compression. The concept is closely related to tihedus (density), tihendamine (the act of compressing), and consolidation.