pyroxylin

[ pahy-rok-suh-lin, puh- ]

noun

1. a nitrocellulose compound containing fewer nitrate groups than guncotton, used in the manufacture of artificial silk, leather, oilcloth, etc.

pyroxylin

/ paɪˈrɒksɪlɪn /

noun

1. a yellow substance obtained by nitrating cellulose with a mixture of nitric and sulphuric acids; guncotton: used to make collodion, plastics, lacquers, and adhesives

Word History and Origins

Origin of pyroxylin¹

1830–40; pyro- + xyl- ( def ) + -in ²

Word History and Origins

Origin of pyroxylin¹

C19: from pyro- + xyl ( o ) - + -in

Example Sentences

The silk referred to is made from a solution of that inflammable material of tremendous force known as gun-cotton, or pyroxylin.

From Project Gutenberg

These nitrates are variously known as nitrocellulose, pyroxylin, and gun cotton.

From Project Gutenberg

The lower nitrates, known as pyroxylin, are less explosive, although still very inflammable.

From Project Gutenberg

A viscid fluid formed by dissolving pyroxylin (Schnbeins gun-cotton) in a mixture of ether and alcohol.

From Project Gutenberg

To a saturated solution of tannic acid in alcohol and ether, in equal parts, add as much pyroxylin as the liquid will dissolve.

From Project Gutenberg