In extractive metallurgy, a reductive atmosphere or reaction is one that strips oxygen or other non-metallic elements from a compound to yield pure metal. This is typically achieved by introducing a reducing agent like carbon monoxide, which binds with the oxygen in the ore. A strongly reductive environment prevents the hot metal from oxidizing during processing.
Heard on the job
Keep the furnace atmosphere reductive so we don't scale up the charge before it melts.