GLOSSARY OF TERMS
Glossary
| GENERAL TERMS | |
| Term | Definition |
| Allergen Burden | A combined measure of allergenic mold and pollen presence rather than sensitivity to individual species. |
| Baseline Condition | Conditions measured prior to any intervention, used as an initial reference point. |
| Category Score | A 0–100 score summarizing results within a specific environmental category. |
| DNA-Based Analysis | A laboratory method that identifies biological material using species-specific genetic markers. |
| Exposure Pathway | The route through which a person may contact an environmental factor, such as inhalation or ingestion. |
| Healthy (Green) |
Results fall within healthy or precautionary thresholds. |
| High-Touch Surface | A surface frequently contacted by hands, such as countertops, faucets, or door handles. |
| Home Health Score | A weighted composite score (0–100) summarizing overall environmental health across categories. |
| Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) | A legally enforceable EPA limit for contaminants in drinking water. |
| Maximum Contaminant Level Goal (MCLG) | A non-enforceable, health-based benchmark indicating a level at which no known or anticipated health effects are expected. |
| Needs Action (Red) | Results exceed health-based thresholds; corrective action is recommended. |
| Needs Attention (Yellow) | Results indicate elevated levels that may benefit from monitoring or targeted improvements. |
| Outdoor Reference Sample | An outdoor air sample used to distinguish indoor mold growth from normal background levels. |
| Snapshot-in-Time | Indicates that results reflect conditions only at the time of testing. |
| PARAMETER TERMS | ||
| Air Quality | ||
| Term | Ecology / Definition | Symptoms / Health Effects |
| Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) | A natural gas produced by human respiration. Elevated indoor levels often indicate insufficient ventilation. | Fatigue, headaches, reduced concentration at higher levels. |
| Carbon Monoxide (CO) | A colorless, odorless gas produced by incomplete combustion from furnaces, stoves, fireplaces, or vehicles. | Headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion; severe exposure can be life-threatening. |
| Chlorine (Cl) | Chlorine is a reactive gas commonly used in disinfectants, cleaning products, and water treatment. Indoors, chlorine in air may be released from cleaning activities, bleach-based products, swimming pool areas, or reactions between cleaning chemicals and indoor air contaminants. | Short-term exposure may cause eye, nose, and throat irritation, coughing, or chest discomfort. Higher concentrations can aggravate asthma or other respiratory conditions, particularly in enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces. |
| Formaldehyde | A volatile organic compound released from pressed wood products, furniture, textiles, and adhesives. | Eye, nose, and throat irritation; asthma symptoms; increased cancer risk with chronic exposure. |
| Nitrogen Dioxide (NO₂) | A combustion-related gas from gas appliances and outdoor pollution infiltration. | Airway irritation; worsened asthma or respiratory symptoms. |
| Ozone (O₃) | A reactive gas formed outdoors by sunlight or indoors by certain air-cleaning devices. | Chest discomfort, coughing, throat irritation, reduced lung function. |
| PM2.5 (Fine Particulate Matter) | Microscopic particles ≤2.5 μm from combustion, cooking, and wildfire smoke that remain airborne. | Respiratory irritation, worsened asthma, increased cardiovascular stress with prolonged exposure. |
| PM10 (Coarse Particulate Matter) | Larger airborne particles such as dust, soil, and pollen fragments. | Eye, nose, and throat irritation; allergy or asthma aggravation. |
| Relative Humidity | Relative humidity is a measure of the amount of moisture in the air compared to the maximum amount the air can hold at a given temperature. Indoor humidity levels influence comfort, air quality, and the potential for mold growth or dust mite activity. | Low humidity can cause dry skin, eye irritation, and respiratory discomfort. Elevated humidity may promote mold growth and increase allergen presence, potentially worsening asthma or allergy symptoms over time. |
| Total Volatile Organic Compounds (TVOCs) | A broad group of gases emitted from building materials, furnishings, paints, cleaning products, and fragrances. | Headaches, dizziness, irritation; potential long-term neurological or respiratory effects at elevated levels. |
| Mold, Allergens & Particles | ||
| Term | Ecology / Definition | Symptoms / Health Effects |
| Acremonium | Often found in areas of higher humidity, such as humidifiers, air conditioning units, and water-damaged drywall or insulation. | Chronic cough and wheezing; occasional skin lesions (especially in onychomycosis). |
| Allergenic Fungal Species | Mold species known to trigger allergic or asthmatic responses. | Sneezing, congestion, asthma flares, fatigue, headaches in sensitive individuals. |
| Allergenic Pollen | Airborne pollen from trees, grasses, or weeds that infiltrate indoor environments. | Sneezing, itchy eyes, nasal congestion, asthma symptoms. |
| Alternaria | Typically originates outdoors, growing on live and dead leaves. One of the most common fungal allergens found indoors, especially in late summer and autumn. | Allergic rhinitis (“hay fever”); asthma exacerbations; chronic sinusitis. |
| Amorphous Organic Debris | Degraded plant (and sometimes animal) material lacking organized structure; commonly derived from composted plant matter (“humus”). | Generally considered benign; indicator of outdoor or soil-derived material. |
| Aspergillus | Common indoor allergen. Frequently found on air conditioning units and in homes with prior water damage. | Allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA); asthma attacks; allergic fungal sinusitis. |
| Aureobasidium | Enters homes from outdoors where it grows on leaves, soil, and decomposing plant material. Can grow indoors on painted surfaces, especially in kitchens and bathrooms. | Nasal congestion and sneezing; asthma symptoms. |
| Basidiospores | Spores from mushrooms and wood-decaying fungi commonly found outdoors; may enter homes via outdoor air or firewood. | Rare allergic reactions; occasional asthma or hypersensitivity responses reported. |
| Bipolaris | Grows outdoors on plants, decaying litter, and soil. Rarely grows indoors, but spores travel long distances and are commonly found in house dust. | Allergic fungal sinusitis; asthma exacerbations; occasional skin rashes. |
| Chaetomium | Frequently found indoors on paper products, wood, and natural fiber textiles. Grows well on wallpaper and drywall in humid or water-damaged environments. | Hypersensitivity pneumonitis (“farmer’s lung”–type reaction); rarely causes asthma. |
| Cladosporium | One of the most frequently encountered molds indoors and outdoors. Typically enters homes from outdoors and rarely grows actively indoors. | Hay fever symptoms (sneezing, itchy eyes); asthma flares; occasional skin infections. |
| Didymella | Most commonly encountered outdoors, particularly under wetter conditions. | Rhinitis and sneezing; reported in some cases of occupational asthma. |
| Epicoccum | Common outdoor mold found on plants, compost, and soil. Can grow indoors on wallpaper, drywall, textiles, or painted surfaces. | Asthma exacerbations; nasal congestion and itching. |
| Fiberglass | Insulation material commonly used in modern buildings; may originate from ductwork, HVAC liners, ceiling tiles, or degraded filters. | Can irritate eyes, skin, nose, and throat; direct contact may cause dermatitis. |
| Fibers – Cellulose | Cotton and paper fibers from clothing, furnishings, and paper products; commonly found indoors. | Non-allergenic and non-toxic; irritation possible at high concentrations. |
| Fibers – Synthetic | Derived from carpets, upholstery, and synthetic clothing materials. | Considered non-allergenic; generally not associated with adverse health effects. |
| Fusarium | Grows on plant surfaces and soils. Rarely grows indoors but commonly enters homes from outdoors during warm, wet conditions. | Keratitis in contact-lens wearers; onychomycosis; respiratory allergy in damp buildings. |
| Insect Fragments | Body parts such as wing scales or antennae; common at low levels in indoor environments. | Elevated levels may suggest infestation or inadequate cleaning or filtration. |
| Mineral Dust | Inorganic particles from soil, construction activities, and road dust; typically higher outdoors. | Should be lower indoors than outdoors; elevated indoor levels may indicate infiltration or tracking. |
| Mold Spores | Microscopic reproductive particles released by mold indoors and outdoors. | Allergic reactions, respiratory irritation, asthma exacerbation. |
| Penicillium | Commonly found in house dust and often more abundant indoors. Thrives in damp, dark environments and can grow on furniture, carpeting, drywall, and refrigerator gaskets. | Allergic rhinitis; asthma attacks in mold-affected buildings; headaches; rare mycotoxin effects. |
| Phoma | Typically encountered outdoors on plants and soil. Can grow indoors on humid surfaces, often producing visible pink or purple mold spots. | Hypersensitivity pneumonitis (especially in agricultural settings); cough and shortness of breath. |
| Skin Cells | Human skin fragments; typically the most abundant indoor particle type. | High levels may correlate with dust mite presence, which can trigger allergies and asthma. |
| Smuts / Myxomycetes | Outdoor fungi associated with soil, vegetation, and decaying wood; may enter homes via outdoor air or firewood. | Rare allergic reactions; typically low clinical relevance indoors. |
| Stachybotrys | Grows on cellulose-rich materials such as drywall, wallpaper, and insulation in areas with long-term moisture or water damage. | Mucosal irritation; chronic cough; headaches. |
| Starch Grains | Derived from food products, paper, and textiles (commonly corn-based). | Considered non-allergenic and non-toxic. |
| Ulocladium | Commonly found in water-damaged buildings, soil, and plant debris; thrives in high-humidity environments. | Asthma and rhinitis in damp indoor environments; eye and throat irritation. |
| Wallemia | Yeast-like fungus tolerant of dry conditions; frequently found in house dust. | Hypersensitivity pneumonitis; mild asthma symptoms. |
| Water-Indicator Mold | Mold species commonly associated with indoor moisture or water damage. | Respiratory irritation and prolonged allergic symptoms with chronic exposure. |
| Radon | ||
| Term | Ecology / Definition | Symptoms / Health Effects |
| Atmospheric Pressure | Atmospheric pressure refers to the weight of the air in the surrounding environment. During radon testing, atmospheric pressure is recorded because changes in pressure can influence how soil gases, including radon, enter a building through foundations or openings. | Atmospheric pressure itself is not harmful. However, changes in pressure can affect radon movement and measured concentrations, which is why it is tracked during radon monitoring. |
| Radon | A naturally occurring radioactive gas released from soil and rock that can accumulate indoors. | Long-term exposure increases lung cancer risk; second leading cause of lung cancer after smoking. |
| Surface Contaminants | ||
| Term | Ecology / Definition | Symptoms / Health Effects |
| ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate) | A molecule found in living cells; ATP testing estimates residual biological material on surfaces. | High readings indicate poor surface hygiene and potential microbial presence. |
| RLU (Relative Light Units) | A measurement unit used in ATP testing to quantify biological residue on surfaces. | Higher values suggest increased contamination and potential hand-to-mouth exposure. |
| Water Quality | ||
| Term | Ecology / Definition | Symptoms / Health Effects |
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General Water Chemistry & Indicators
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| pH | A measure of how acidic or alkaline the water is, influenced by natural geology and treatment processes. | Extreme levels may irritate skin or eyes, affect taste, and increase corrosion or scaling. |
| Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) | The combined amount of minerals, salts, and metals dissolved in water from natural and man-made sources. | High levels may affect taste; very high levels may cause gastrointestinal discomfort. |
| Turbidity | Cloudiness caused by suspended particles such as sediment, organic matter, or microbes. | Can interfere with disinfection and indicate increased contamination risk. |
| Hardness (Calcium, Magnesium) | Naturally occurring minerals that enter water as it moves through rock and soil. | Generally not associated with adverse health effects; contributes to scale buildup and reduced appliance efficiency. |
| Hardness (Total) | A combined measure of calcium and magnesium expressed as calcium carbonate. | No direct health effects; primarily affects plumbing and appliances. |
| Grains per Gallon | A standard unit used to express water hardness. | No direct health impact. |
| Alkalinity (as CaCO₃) | The water’s ability to resist changes in pH, largely controlled by carbonate minerals. | Affects corrosion potential, taste, and water system stability. |
| Langelier Saturation Index | An index used to predict whether water will corrode pipes or form scale. | Infrastructure indicator only; not a health parameter. |
| Sodium Adsorption Ratio | A measure of sodium relative to calcium and magnesium, commonly used for irrigation assessment. | High sodium may be a concern for salt-sensitive individuals. |
| Specific Conductivity | Indicates how well water conducts electricity, reflecting total dissolved ions. | No direct health effects; general water chemistry indicator. |
| Bicarbonate | A natural component of alkalinity formed from dissolved carbon dioxide and minerals. | No known adverse health effects. |
| Carbonate | A mineral form that contributes to alkalinity and buffering capacity. | No known adverse health effects. |
| Chloride | A naturally occurring salt component found in groundwater and treated water. | High levels may affect taste and increase corrosion. |
| Chloride-to-Sulfate Mass Ratio | A metric used to evaluate corrosion risk in plumbing systems. | Infrastructure relevance only. |
| Sulfate | A naturally occurring mineral found in soil and rock formations. | High levels may cause laxative effects, especially in sensitive individuals. |
| Calcium | An essential mineral commonly found in groundwater. | Generally beneficial; no adverse effects at typical levels. |
| Magnesium | An essential mineral contributing to water hardness. | Generally beneficial; excessive levels may cause mild digestive effects. |
| Sodium | A common mineral introduced naturally or through treatment processes. | Dietary concern for individuals on low-sodium diets. |
| Potassium | An essential nutrient found at low levels in water. | Generally safe at typical drinking water concentrations. |
| Phosphorus | A nutrient from natural sources, fertilizers, or detergents. | No direct health concern at typical drinking water levels. |
| Nitrate (as N) | A nutrient commonly introduced by fertilizers, septic systems, and agricultural runoff. | Can interfere with oxygen delivery in infants (“blue baby syndrome”). |
| Nitrite (as N) | A nitrogen compound related to nitrate, often formed during biological processes. | Similar health concerns as nitrate at elevated levels. |
| Total Coliform | A group of bacteria used as indicators of drinking water system integrity. | Typically not harmful themselves; suggest potential pathways for contamination. |
| E. coli | A specific coliform bacterium associated with fecal contamination of water. | Gastrointestinal illness; indicates increased risk of pathogenic contamination. |
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Metals & Inorganic Constituents
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| Aluminum | A naturally occurring metal or residual from water treatment processes. | High levels may affect taste; long-term effects are still being studied. |
| Antimony | A trace metal from natural deposits or industrial sources. | Gastrointestinal irritation at elevated levels. |
| Arsenic | A naturally occurring element found in some groundwater sources. | Long-term exposure linked to cancer, skin, and cardiovascular effects. |
| Barium | A metal present in certain rock formations. | May affect blood pressure at high concentrations. |
| Beryllium | A rare metal from natural or industrial sources. | Lung and immune effects with chronic exposure. |
| Boron | A naturally occurring element in groundwater. | Reproductive effects at high levels. |
| Cadmium | A toxic metal from industrial sources or plumbing corrosion. | Kidney damage and bone effects with long-term exposure. |
| Chromium (Total) | A metal present naturally and from industrial activity. | Certain forms linked to increased cancer risk. |
| Cobalt | A trace metal found in soil and rock. | Cardiovascular effects at high exposure. |
| Copper | A metal commonly leached from plumbing pipes. | Nausea and stomach irritation; metallic taste. |
| Iron | A naturally occurring metal in groundwater. | Staining and taste issues; not typically associated with adverse health effects. |
| Lead | A toxic metal from older plumbing materials. | Developmental delays, learning difficulties, and cardiovascular effects. |
| Lithium | A naturally occurring trace element. | Health effects depend on dose; research is evolving. |
| Manganese | A naturally occurring metal in groundwater. | Neurological effects with long-term high exposure. |
| Mercury | A toxic metal from natural and industrial sources. | Neurological and developmental effects. |
| Molybdenum | A trace element found in some groundwater sources. | Low toxicity at typical drinking water concentrations. |
| Nickel | A naturally occurring metal. | Skin irritation and allergic responses in sensitive individuals. |
| Selenium | A trace element essential at low levels. | Toxic effects at elevated concentrations. |
| Silver | A metal with antimicrobial properties. | Skin discoloration at very high exposure levels. |
| Strontium | A naturally occurring element in groundwater. | Bone effects in children at elevated levels. |
| Thallium | A toxic metal from industrial sources. | Nervous system and gastrointestinal effects. |
| Tin | A metal from corrosion or industrial contamination. | Gastrointestinal irritation at high levels. |
| Titanium | A naturally occurring metal. | Low toxicity at typical drinking water concentrations. |
| Uranium | A radioactive metal found in certain geological formations. | Kidney toxicity and increased cancer risk. |
| Vanadium | A trace metal found in soil and rock. | Digestive irritation at high exposure. |
| Zinc | An essential trace mineral found naturally in water. | Nausea and metallic taste at high levels. |
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Organic Contaminants (VOCs & Byproducts)
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| Total Trihalomethanes (THMs) | Disinfection byproducts formed when chlorine reacts with organic matter in water. | Long-term exposure linked to liver, kidney, and cancer risk. |
| Benzene | A petroleum-related solvent from fuel or industrial contamination. | Increased cancer risk with chronic exposure. |
| Toluene | A solvent and fuel additive. | Nervous system effects such as headaches or dizziness. |
| Ethylbenzene | A petroleum-derived compound. | Dizziness and central nervous system effects. |
| Xylenes (o, m, p) | Fuel and solvent components. | Headaches, dizziness, and irritation at elevated levels. |
| Styrene | A byproduct of plastic manufacturing. | Respiratory irritation and nervous system effects. |
| Naphthalene | A combustion byproduct found in fuels and moth repellents. | Blood effects and anemia risk with long-term exposure. |
| Vinyl Chloride | A chemical used to make PVC plastics. | Increased risk of liver cancer with chronic exposure. |
| Tetrachloroethylene (PCE) | A dry-cleaning and industrial solvent. | Neurological effects and increased cancer risk. |
| Trichloroethylene (TCE) | An industrial degreasing solvent. | Developmental effects and cancer risk. |
| Chloroform | A byproduct of chlorinated water treatment. | Liver and kidney effects with long-term exposure. |
| Carbon Tetrachloride | A legacy industrial solvent. | Liver toxicity and cancer risk. |
| MTBE | A gasoline additive used to improve fuel combustion. | Taste and odor issues; possible neurological effects. |
| Chlorinated/Brominated Ethenes, Ethanes, Propanes, Benzenes | A group of industrial solvents and degradation products. | Health risks vary by compound and may include cancer and organ toxicity. |
| Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) | Industrial solvents, fuel components, and chemical byproducts that can contaminate water. | Neurological, liver, kidney, and cancer risks depending on compound. |
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Microplastics (Polymer Types) - see below for expanded reference
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| Microplastics | Very small plastic particles from consumer products, plumbing materials, or environmental plastic breakdown. | Health impacts are still being studied; potential inflammation and chemical exposure risks. |
| Polyethylene (PE) | Common plastic used in packaging and consumer products. | Health impacts are still being studied; potential inflammation and chemical exposure. |
| Polypropylene (PP) | Plastic used in packaging, textiles, and household goods. | Similar emerging concerns as other microplastics. |
| Polystyrene (PS) | Disposable plastic used in food and packaging. | Potential endocrine and nervous system effects are still being studied. |
| Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) | Plastic used in pipes and construction materials. | Additive-related toxicity concerns. |
| Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) | Plastic used in bottles and food containers. | Potential chemical leaching concerns. |
| Polycarbonate | Hard plastic used in containers and resins. | BPA-related endocrine concerns. |
| Polyurethane | Material used in foams and coatings. | Respiratory irritation from additives. |
| Silicone | Elastomer used in seals and flexible components. | Generally not associated with adverse health effects. |
| Rubber | Material used in gaskets, seals, and tires. | Potential exposure to chemical additives. |
| ABS, EVA, Nylon, Acrylics | Engineering plastics used in a range of products. | Health impacts are still being studied. |
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PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) - see below for expanded reference
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| PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) | Persistent synthetic “forever chemicals” used in firefighting foams, non-stick cookware, and waterproof materials. | Associated with immune effects, hormone disruption, developmental impacts, and increased cancer risk with long-term exposure. |
| PFOA | A legacy long-chain PFAS used in non-stick cookware and industrial coatings. | Associated with immune, hormonal, developmental effects and increased cancer risk. |
| PFOS | A PFAS historically used in firefighting foams and stain-resistant coatings. | Developmental toxicity, immune suppression, and endocrine effects. |
| PFHxS | A persistent long-chain PFAS found in contaminated water sources. | Thyroid and immune system effects. |
| PFNA, PFDA, PFUnA, PFDoA | Long-chain PFAS acids that persist and bioaccumulate in the body. | Liver toxicity and immune effects reported in studies. |
| PFBA, PFPeA, PFHxA, PFHpA | Short- to medium-chain PFAS acids that are more mobile in water. | Emerging concerns related to liver and metabolic effects. |
| PFBS | A short-chain PFAS used as a replacement for PFOS. | Lower bioaccumulation but potential immune effects. |
| Fluorotelomer Sulfonates (4:2–10:2 FTS) | PFAS precursors used in firefighting foams that degrade into persistent PFAS. | Health effects are driven primarily by breakdown products. |
| PFAS Sulfonamides & Derivatives | Industrial PFAS intermediates related to PFOS chemistry. | Similar health concerns to PFOS-related compounds. |
| GenX & PFAS Ether Acids | Replacement PFAS used in fluoropolymer manufacturing. | Liver and immune effects reported; emerging concern. |
| PFAS Phosphinic Acids | PFAS-related compounds used in flame retardants. | Persistence and bioaccumulation concerns. |
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WATER TERMS - EXPANDED REFERENCE
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PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances): Expanded Reference The following table provides definitions for individual PFAS compounds that may be detected in drinking water. PFAS are persistent synthetic chemicals; health effects depend on compound, concentration, and duration of exposure. Scientific understanding continues to evolve. |
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| Term | Ecology / Definition | Symptoms / Health Effects |
| Perfluorobutanoic Acid (PFBA) | Short-chain PFAS used in industrial applications and as a degradation product of other PFAS; highly mobile in water. | Health impacts are still being studied; potential liver and developmental effects. |
| Perfluoropentanoic Acid (PFPeA) | Short-chain PFAS commonly formed from the breakdown of fluorinated materials. | Limited human data; possible metabolic and liver effects with chronic exposure. |
| Perfluorohexanoic Acid (PFHxA) | Short-chain PFAS used in surface coatings and textiles. | Emerging evidence of liver and immune effects. |
| Perfluoroheptanoic Acid (PFHpA) | Medium-chain PFAS from industrial sources and degradation pathways. | Potential endocrine and metabolic effects; data evolving. |
| Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA) | Legacy long-chain PFAS historically used in non-stick coatings and industrial processes. | Immune suppression, hormone disruption, developmental impacts, increased cancer risk. |
| Perfluorononanoic Acid (PFNA) | Long-chain PFAS used in polymer manufacturing. | Developmental toxicity and immune effects reported. |
| Perfluorodecanoic Acid (PFDA) | Long-chain PFAS with high persistence and bioaccumulation. | Liver toxicity and immune effects. |
| Perfluoroundecanoic Acid (PFUnA) | Long-chain PFAS from industrial sources. | Potential metabolic and immune system effects. |
| Perfluorododecanoic Acid (PFDoA) | Very long-chain PFAS detected in environmental samples. | High persistence; limited but concerning toxicity data. |
| Perfluorotridecanoic Acid (PFTrDA) | Extremely persistent long-chain PFAS. | Health impacts poorly characterized; accumulation concern. |
| Perfluorotetradecanoic Acid (PFTeDA) | Very long-chain PFAS with strong environmental persistence. | Limited toxicity data; bioaccumulation concern. |
| Perfluorobutane Sulfonic Acid (PFBS) | Short-chain PFAS used as a replacement for PFOS. | Lower bioaccumulation; potential immune and thyroid effects. |
| Perfluorohexane Sulfonic Acid (PFHxS) | Long-chain PFAS used in firefighting foams and repellents. | Thyroid disruption and immune effects. |
| Perfluorooctane Sulfonic Acid (PFOS) | Legacy PFAS used in firefighting foams and coatings. | Developmental toxicity, immune suppression, endocrine effects. |
| Fluorotelomer Sulfonates (4:2, 6:2, 8:2, 10:2 FTS) | PFAS precursors used in firefighting foams that degrade into persistent PFAS. | Health impacts driven by breakdown into long-chain PFAS. |
| PFAS Sulfonamides & Derivatives | Industrial PFAS intermediates related to PFOS chemistry. | Similar health concerns to PFOS-related compounds. |
| GenX (HFPO-DA) | Replacement PFAS used in fluoropolymer manufacturing. | Liver toxicity and immune effects reported. |
| PFAS Ether Acids | PFAS replacement compounds used in industrial applications. | Emerging concern; limited human health data. |
| PFAS Phosphinic Acids | PFAS-related compounds used in flame retardants. | Persistence and bioaccumulation concerns. |
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Microplastics (Expanded Reference) Microplastics are very small plastic particles that originate from consumer products, plumbing materials, industrial sources, or environmental degradation. Health impacts depend on particle size, composition, additives, and duration of exposure. |
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| Term | Ecology / Definition | Symptoms / Health Effects |
| Acrylates | Plastics derived from acrylic resins used in coatings, adhesives, and sealants. | Health impacts are still being studied; potential irritation and chemical exposure. |
| Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) | Durable engineering plastic used in pipes, appliances, and consumer goods. | Emerging concerns related to particle inhalation and additive exposure. |
| Alkyd Varnish | Resin-based coating used in paints and finishes that may shed particles as it degrades. | Limited data; potential exposure to solvents and additives. |
| Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) | Flexible plastic used in footwear, packaging, and adhesives. | Generally low toxicity; additive exposure under study. |
| Polyacetal | Engineering plastic used in plumbing components and precision parts. | Health impacts under study; degradation products may cause irritation. |
| Polylactic Acid (PLA) | Bioplastic derived from plant-based materials. | Generally low toxicity; long-term microplastic effects unknown. |
| Polyamide (Synthetic / Nylon) | Plastic used in textiles, carpets, and mechanical parts. | Potential respiratory irritation from fibers; additive exposure concerns. |
| Polybutadiene | Synthetic rubber used in tires and elastomers. | Potential exposure to chemical additives. |
| Polycaprolactone | Biodegradable polyester used in medical and industrial products. | Generally low toxicity; limited environmental data. |
| Polycarbonate | Hard plastic used in containers, lenses, and electronics. | BPA-related endocrine concerns. |
| Polyether | Polymer class used in foams and coatings. | Limited data; potential irritation from additives. |
| Polyethylene (PE) | Widely used plastic in packaging and films. | Health impacts are still being studied; potential inflammation and chemical exposure. |
| Polyethylene (Chlorinated) | Modified polyethylene used in specialty plastics and coatings. | Limited toxicity data; persistence concern. |
| Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) | Plastic used in beverage bottles and food containers. | Potential chemical leaching and ingestion concerns. |
| Polyimide | High-performance plastic used in electronics and insulation. | Generally stable; persistent in the environment. |
| Polyisoprene (Chlorinated) | Synthetic rubber used in coatings and adhesives. | Additive exposure concerns; limited toxicity data. |
| Polymethyl Methacrylate (PMMA) | Acrylic plastic used in displays and lighting. | Low toxicity; particle exposure effects under study. |
| Polyoxymethylene (POM) | Engineering plastic used in gears and plumbing parts. | Potential irritation from degradation products. |
| Polypropylene (PP) | Plastic used in packaging, textiles, and household goods. | Similar emerging concerns as other microplastics. |
| Polystyrene (PS) | Plastic used in disposable packaging and insulation. | Potential endocrine and nervous system effects under study. |
| Polysulfone | Heat-resistant plastic used in filtration and medical devices. | Generally stable; limited microplastic exposure data. |
| Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) | Fluoropolymer used in non-stick coatings and seals. | Chemically inert; concerns relate to PFAS-associated degradation. |
| Polyurethane | Material used in foams, insulation, and coatings. | Respiratory irritation from additives. |
| Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) | Water-soluble polymer used in films and detergents. | Generally low toxicity; environmental persistence under study. |
| Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) | Plastic used in pipes and construction materials. | Additive-related toxicity concerns. |
| Rubber | Natural or synthetic elastomer used in seals, gaskets, and tires. | Potential exposure to chemical additives and wear particles. |
| Silicone | Elastomer used in seals, tubing, and household products. | Generally not associated with adverse health effects. |