Kilning is a noun derived from the verb "kiln" which refers to the process of drying, baking, or curing a material using a specialized oven known as a kiln. The term is commonly associated with the production of various products such as pottery, ceramics, bricks, and malt for breweries.
In the context of pottery and ceramics, kilning involves subjecting shaped clay objects to high temperatures in a kiln to harden them, remove moisture, and create a durable and often decorative finish. This process allows the clay to chemically transform into a solid, non-porous material, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.
Similarly, in brick and tile manufacturing, kilning refers to the controlled firing of clay or clay-based mixtures in a kiln. The intense heat transforms the raw materials into solid, durable, and strong construction materials suitable for the building industry.
Kilning is also used in the production of malt for breweries and distilleries. Here, the process involves germinating barley seeds and subsequently drying them in a kiln to stop the germination process while preserving the necessary enzymes for fermenting and flavor development. This kilning process imparts specific flavors and color characteristics to the malt, crucial for brewing beer or distilling spirits.
In summary, kilning represents the vital step of subjecting various materials, such as clay, bricks, and malt, to high temperatures in a kiln to achieve specific physical, chemical, or aesthetic properties required for their intended use.
