The process of an adsorbate (molecules, biomolecules, ions, or atoms) adhering to and accumulating on the surface of a substance. The adsorbent can be a liquid, gas, or a solid with dissolved surface molecules.
Air filter
A device used to remove airborne contaminants. Most cleanroom air filters are comprised of fibers that are designed to capture particulates like dust, bacteria, pollen, chemicals, and mold spores through adsorption, straining, absorption, or static electric charge.
Air Lock
A dedicated space that facilitates the movement of objects or people between vessels or rooms of varying pressures. The air lock provides a space that is sealed by two airtight doors that are opened and closed successively to prevent the mixing of different gases or the alteration of pressures.
Air Shower
A specialized chamber that utilizes forced air to remove any particulate matter from a person or object before accessing a cleanroom facility. In order to minimize contamination, a cleanroom air shower often uses an air filter to capture any dust, bacterial, pollen, or mold that may be present on the surface of a person or object.
Air Velocity
The rate of air movement measured in distance traveled relative to time elapsed. Air velocity is commonly measured in meters per second (m/s) or feet per minute (ft/min).
Airflow
Stream of air as it passes over the surface of a moving object or within a wind tunnel where air may move over the surface of a stationary object.
Airflow Uniformity
The consistency of which a stream of air passes over the surface of an object. Measured in volume occupied relative to time elapsed. Common airflow uniformity is measured in cubic meters per second (m³/s), liters per second (L/s), or cubic feet per minute (ft³/min).
ARBS
Commonly used acronym for Air Conditioning, Refrigeration, & Building Services. ARBS refers to a large trade event that is held every two years for heating, ventilation, air conditioning, refrigeration, and other building related industries.
ASHRAE
Commonly used acronym for the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers. This international organization has a mission to advance the HVAC & R (heating, ventilation, air-conditioning, and refrigeration) industries to better serve humanity and promote sustainability. ASHRAE accomplishes their mission through research and continuing education programs as well as through the writing and publishing of industry standards and a variety of other resources.
Bio Safety Hood Classification
Classification used to determine the levels of containment a fume hood will provide in regards to potential contamination by hazardous vapors, gases, and particles.
Class 1 - 100,000 Cleanrooms
Classification levels that indicate the acceptable number of particles in a cubic foot of cleanroom space. Class levels are generally determined from the number of 0.5 micron or larger particles per cubic foot.
Cleanroom
A designated space that is closely controlled for compliance to limitations that have been outlined for operating procedures, air cleanliness, air pressure, temperature, relative humidity, and air flow patterns. A number of devices and procedures are often used in a cleanroom to monitor the viability of airborne particles.
Cleanroom Apparel/Garments/Clothing
Non-shedding apparel that is designed specifically to serve as a barrier between cleanroom environments and possible contaminants released by cleanroom workers. Cleanroom garments may include footwear, shoe covers, coveralls, gowns, smocks, gloves, face masks, and head coverings.
Cleanroom Classifications
Classification system used to determine the acceptable concentration of particles in an identified volume of air given specific particle size parameters. Classification levels are determined by the federal government.
Cleanroom Construction
A space or system of spaces in which there are tightly controlled limits that govern air flow, air pressure, air filtration, temperature, relative humidity, viability of airborne particles, access, and operating procedures.
Cleanroom Dispensers
Furnishings that are designed specifically for convenient dispensing of cleanroom-safe products. Cleanroom dispensers can be used for a variety of products.
Cleanroom Facility - As Built
Cleanroom facility that is prepared for operation in terms of construction and systems but without staff present or manufacturing equipment in place.
Cleanroom Facility - At Rest
Cleanroom facility that is fully equipped for operation with the exception of staff on site.
Cleanroom Facility - In Operation
Cleanroom facility that is equipped and staffed for full operations, with all staff, equipment, and supplies present.
Cleanroom Paint
Water based acrylic epoxy paint for cleanrooms that provides a durable and stain resistant finish for all cleanroom walls, ceiling, and floors.
Contained Space
Area that provides full enclosure with controlled ventilation systems and regulated access.
Containment
The utilization of filters and controlled ventilation systems in a designated space for capturing and containing potential contaminants.
Desiccators
A sealable enclosure that contains desiccants or nitrogen gas that are used to prevent reactions between moisture-sensitive materials and atmospheric humidity.
Electrostatic Discharge (ESD)
The transfer of electric charge between two surfaces as a result of friction.
Federal Standard 209E
Government imposed standards for air quality in a cleanroom. The standards designate classes of cle
