noun
- A highly flammable compound made by treating cellulose with nitric acid, used in explosives, propellants, lacquers, and coatings.
Usage: Also called cellulose nitrate or guncotton in some contexts.; Technical/industrial term.
Examples
- Nitrocellulose is a key ingredient in smokeless gunpowder.
- The old film reels were made from nitrocellulose, which is extremely flammable.
- Nitrocellulose lacquer provides a durable finish for wood furniture.
- The chemist carefully handled the nitrocellulose in the laboratory.
- Nitrocellulose is used in the manufacture of certain types of explosives.
- Modern safety regulations restrict the use of nitrocellulose in consumer products.