scorie

Scorie is the plural form of scoria in Italian and is used in several technical contexts to denote by-products and residues. The most common meaning is slag, the glassy, non-metallic material produced during metal smelting and refining. Slag forms from molten impurities and fluxes and typically consists of oxides such as silicon dioxide, calcium oxide, and aluminum oxide. After cooling, slag can be crushed and used as an aggregate in construction or disposed of according to waste-management rules.

In geology, scoria refers to a vesicular volcanic rock formed by rapid cooling of gas-rich lava. The singular term is scoria, while Italian writers often pluralize related references as scorie when speaking about multiple fragments or types. English usage normally prefers scoria for the rock itself.

In Italian, scorie also denotes radioactive waste produced by nuclear reactors and related facilities. This meaning is common in discussions of waste management and decommissioning, with attention to both high-level and lower-level wastes. Handling and storage of scorie require specialized facilities and oversight to prevent environmental release and protect public health.

Regulatory frameworks govern the characterization, packaging, transport, and long-term isolation of scorie, reflecting safety priorities in mining, metallurgy, geoscience, and nuclear energy.