GLOSSARY

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

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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.