granulated

Granulated is an adjective describing something that has been processed into granules or small grains, or possessing a grainy texture. The term is used across disciplines to indicate a discrete, particle-like form that aids handling, measurement, or appearance.

In everyday use, granulated refers to foods and chemicals designed to have defined particle sizes. Granulated sugar and granulated salt are common examples, consisting of crystals shaped or sized to promote flow and uniform dosing. Granulation in these contexts often involves crystallization and drying to produce stable, free-flowing materials.

In pharmaceuticals, granulation is a manufacturing process that converts powder blends into granules. This improves flow, compressibility, uniform distribution of active ingredients, and tablet strength. Methods include wet granulation (binding powders with a liquid to form granules) and dry granulation (pressing powders into large particles without a liquid). Granulated formulations are standard in tablet and capsule production.

In materials science, granulated materials refer to powders or fragments produced for specific particle-size distributions. Granulated metal powders, minerals, and slag are used in manufacturing, metalworking, and additive manufacturing. Controlling granule size influences packing density, flow, and processing behavior.

In biology and histology, granulated describes structures with visible granules. For example, granulated cytoplasm or the rough endoplasmic reticulum (appearing granular due to ribosomes) denotes a textured, grain-like interior rather than a smooth appearance.

Granulation is distinct from grinding or pulverization, as it emphasizes discrete granules designed for practical handling and performance.