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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CARBON DIOXIDE

(CO2) – A colourless, odourless, non-flammable, potentially hazardous gas, which results primarily from human activity indoors. It is removed from the air by plants during photosynthesis, and converted into oxygen. Elevated levels of CO2 are extremely dangerous to animals, and can cause death


CARBON MONOXIDE

(CO) – A colourless, odourless, poisonous gas that results from incomplete combustion of carbon. The EPA ambient air quality TLV for carbon monoxide is 35 ppm for 1 hour, and 9 ppm for an 8-hour period.


CARCINOGEN

A substance or agent that can cause a growth of abnormal tissue or tumours in humans or animals. A material identified as an animal carcinogen does not necessarily cause cancer in humans. Examples of human carcinogens include coal tar.


CARPET

Can refer to a rug however more commonly referring to a textile floor covering that is permanently laid wall to wall


CARPET PILE

The tufts of yarn that stand erect from the base of the carpet, forming the pile which is walked upon


CAT ION

Positively charged ion.


CATALYST

1. A substance that initiates a chemical reaction and allows it to continue under less than favourable conditions. 2. An agent that provokes significant change.


CAULK

A plastic (flexible) material applied as filler in cracks, joints and connections, prior to decoration, to minimize the likelihood of future cracking.


CAUSTIC

The property of a chemical (usually a base) that enables it to burn, corrode, dissolve or eat away other substances. When the term caustic is used alone, it usually refers to sodium hydroxide, which is used in manufacturing hard soap.


CAVITATION

The formation of partial vacuums in a fluid, caused by high frequency sound waves.