deoxidized

Deoxidized is a term used to describe materials, typically metals, whose oxygen content has been reduced or removed during processing. The purpose is to improve properties such as strength, ductility, surface quality, and resistance to porosity or oxide inclusions that can form during melting and casting.

In steelmaking, deoxidation is a standard step. Oxidized steel contains dissolved oxygen and oxide inclusions that can cause gas porosity and weaken the material. Deoxidizers such as silicon, aluminum, calcium, or titanium are added to bind oxygen and form stable oxides that can be removed with slag. The result is deoxidized steel, which generally has fewer internal defects and better machinability and toughness.

In copper processing, deoxidized copper, for example deoxidized high-phosphorus copper (DHP), is produced by adding phosphorus to bind oxygen. The resulting copper has low oxide content and improved electrical conductivity and ductility, making it suitable for electrical wires and components. Other copper grades may use different deoxidizers or refining methods to achieve low oxygen levels.

Deoxidation also applies to reagents, solvents, and water in chemical processing, where remaining oxygen can interfere with reactions or cause corrosion. In these contexts, deoxidization may involve reducing agents, inert gas purging, or distillation to achieve an oxygen-free or low-oxygen environment.

Overall, deoxidized materials are engineered to minimize oxide-related issues and achieve more consistent, reliable performance in their intended applications.