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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MICROBE

An extremely small life form that usually is visible only with the aid of a microscope.


MICROBIAL

Relating to micro organisms.


MICROBIAL VOLATILE ORGANIC COMPOUND

(MVOC) – Musty, mouldy, or mildew odours produced by metabolically active bacteria and fungi. MVOCs are primarily a number of alcohols and include such compounds as geosmin and 1-octen-3-ol.


MICROBIOCIDE

A disinfectant that controls specified micro organisms when used according to label directions.


MICROBIOLOGICAL SAMPLE

A method of analyzing small bio contaminants in air, water or on surfaces. Complications arise in microbiological sampling based on the season of the year, variable humidity, variable environmental activities (indoor and out).


MICROENVIRONMENT

A specific part of an environment. Sometimes used to describe the indoor environment, a subset of the global environment.


MICROGRAM

One millionth of a gram: e.g., g/m3 = micrograms of dust per cubic meter of air.


MICRON

Micrometer. A metric unit of measure that is equal to one millionth of a metre and is used commonly in particle measurement. A micron is approximately 1/25,400 of an inch.


MIGRATION

Gradual movement of moisture, usually on a horizontal plane, as it is absorbed by materials outward from its source or point of origin. cp ?wicking?


MILDEW

A mould or fungus that grows and feeds on organic materials exposed to heat, moisture and stagnant air.