TERM DEFINITION Glossary Nanotechnology A nanometer (nm) is one billionth (10-9) of a meter. Nanotechnology is the study of the control of matter at the atomic and molecular level. Generally speaking, ‘Nanotechnology’ is concerned with structure sizes of 100 nanometers or smaller in at least one dimension, and also involves developing materials or devices of this magnitude. And to better understand all the above with an example: a human hair has a diameter of 50.000 nanometers. Paint chalking Damage that occurs on a painted surface and is manifested by its disintegration, which turns the paint into a powder (such as chalk). Paint saponification Literally, ‘saponification’ is the conversion of fat into soap with the help of alkali. Referring to the paint and metaphorically speaking, the saponification of the paint refers to its (re)emulsification under conditions, after its application and drying. One realizes that such a development destroys the painted surface and creates a need to repaint it. Plaster coating (wall, ceiling) Application of a coat of plaster (render) on fixed elements (architectural and structural, e.g., bricks, concrete columns). Traditional practice includes three steps: scratch coat, base coat, and top coat. Nowadays, there are ready-mixed plasters that reduce the steps, even to just one. Polymer additives Polymeric products, are used as improving additives for other products to enhance their properties. Polymer is a term in chemistry that describes it as a large molecular structure consisting of smaller molecules (monomers) bonded together. Examples of chemically made polymers are polystyrene and elastomers (latex), while natural polymers are, e.g., starch, cellulose, rubber, etc. Polystyrene (expanded and extruded) Insulating materials based on polystyrene (expanded or extruded). They are widely used as an insulating material, but also as a base for decorative constructions. Polyurethane sealant Polyurethane-based sealant, especially flexible, which is used in applications such as filling expansion joints, etc. Positive or negative pressure on a surface The penetrating force (pressure) of the moisture, on the front or back of a surface, trying to penetrate through it. Product viscosity The word viscosity comes from the word viscous (the well-known sticky substance that surrounds some fruits) and means sticky. In general, however, the term viscosity, in chemistry and physics, characterizes one of the properties of matter (especially liquids and gases) and specifically the resistance they show during their flow. For example, honey, oil, and water flow differently. Rain gutter The (horizontal) water drainage pipe of a roof that ends in its (vertical) downspouts (leaders). Repair & Renovation Guide 297
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