GLOSSARY
ACID DYE LOCKER
An anionic naphthalene phenol compound used to balance the cationic polarity of the amine groups at the ends of nylon polymers (to block open dye sites), thereby reducing or eliminating the affinity between the fibre and foreign acid based dyes
ACID DYES
Negatively charged colouring material used primarily on nylon carpet fibres.
ACID SMOKE
Fire residues characterized by high levels of acidity, often inducing corrosion of metals or colour change in textiles and pigments.
ACM
see _asbestos containing material_
ACOUSTIC CEILING
A ceiling formed of an acoustical material such as mineral-core or fibreglass panels.
ACOUSTIC PLASTER
A low-density sound-absorptive plaster, applied in the form of a finish- coat, to provide a continuous finished surface; also called ACOUSTICAL TEXTURE.
ACTINOMYCETE
Bacteria that look like long-branched filaments under a microscope, and that are malodorous bio pollutants.
ACTIVATED CARBON
A highly adsorbent form of granular carbon treated with high temperature and used to remove odours and toxic substances from liquids or gases, through adsorption or filtration. see _adsorption_
ACTIVE INGREDIENT
Those components of a compound or solution that enable it to perform a specific function, as opposed to inert ingredients that serve as fillers or extenders.
ACUTE EFFECT
An adverse effect on a human or animal body, with severe symptoms developing rapidly and coming quickly to a crisis. Examples include dizziness, nausea, skin rashes, and inflammation, tearing of eyes, unconsciousness, and even death.