Vitrification

Vitrification (pronunciation: /vɪtrɪfɪˈkeɪʃən/) is a process of converting a substance into a glass-like amorphous solid that is free from any crystalline structure, either by the quick cooling or by the addition of a solidifying agent.

Etymology

The term 'vitrification' is derived from the Latin word 'vitrificare' which means 'to turn into glass'. It is a combination of 'vitrum' (glass) and 'facere' (to make).

Process

Vitrification involves the transition of a substance from a liquid phase to a glassy phase. This is achieved by rapid cooling or by the addition of a solidifying agent. The process prevents the formation of a regular crystalline structure, resulting in a glass-like, amorphous solid.

Applications

Vitrification has a wide range of applications in various fields. In medicine, it is used in cryopreservation of biological tissues and organs, and in in-vitro fertilization (IVF) for the preservation of embryos and oocytes. In nuclear waste management, vitrification is used to immobilize radioactive waste for long-term storage.

Related Terms

Cryopreservation: The process of preserving cells, tissues, or any other biological constructs by cooling them to very low temperatures.
In-vitro fertilization (IVF): A process of fertilization where an egg is combined with sperm outside the body, in vitro ("in glass").
Nuclear waste management: The proper storage, transportation, and disposal of radioactive waste produced by nuclear technology.