verb
vulcanize
VUL-kuh-nize/ˈvʌlkəˌnaɪz/
To harden rubber by treating it with sulfur and heat.
Manufacturers vulcanize rubber with sulfur and heat to make durable tires.
Etymology
Vulcan, the god of fire and metalworking, supplies the image behind this verb. His name connects the rubber-hardening process with its use of high heat.
In context
The time in the hot pressurized mold has caused the rubber to vulcanize, a chemical reaction that transforms it from a weak and sticky substance to one that's strong and elastic.
More examples
- The factory vulcanizes rubber seals before workers install them.
- This hose contains vulcanized rubber that resists wear.
- Workers monitor the temperature while vulcanizing the rubber.
Forms
vulcanize · vulcanizes · vulcanized · vulcanizing
vulcanization noun — Hardening rubber by applying sulfur and heat.
Similar words
- cure
- Sets rubber or other materials, not necessarily with sulfur.
- harden
- Makes a material firmer, without specifying how it happens.