The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word ATOMIZED
I've seen this crossword clue in The Guardian
A
T
O
M
I
Z
E
D
Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "In minimal pieces" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case in minimal pieces = atomized.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does ATOMIZED mean?
ATOMIZED verb- To separate or reduce into atoms
- To make into a fine spray
- To fragment, break into small pieces or concepts
- To bomb with nuclear weapons
- Converted from liquid to a spray or mist.