A chemical reaction in which molecules of a monomer are linked together to form large molecules whose molecular weight is a multiple of that of the original substance.

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Polypropylene

A polymer produced by the linking of repeated propylene monomers.

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Polyolefin

A polymer composed of open-chain hydrocarbons having double bonds.

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Polyimide

A polymer based on the combination of certain anhydrides with aromatic diamines.

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Polymer

A chemical compound formed by the union of simple molecules to form more complex molecules.

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Polyurethane

A thermoplastic or thermosetting resin derived by the condensation reaction of a polyisocyanate and a hydroxyl.

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Porcelain Enamel

An inorganic metal oxide coating bonded to metal by fusion at a high temperature.

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Post-and-beam

A basic building method that uses just a few hefty posts and beams to support an entire structure. Contrasts with stud framing.

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Post, Plank, and Beam Framing

A wood-framing system using beams for horizontal structural members that rest on posts, forming the vertical members.

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Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)

PVC’s vinyl chloride monomer building block is a known human carcinogen, according to the US Department of Health and Human Services. In addition, PVC is a Persistent Organic Pollutant Source Material. Due to its chlorine content, PVC often contains other Red List ingredients, such as cadmium, lead, and phthalates. The manufacture and disposal of PVC can result in the production of dioxins and disposal phases. Dioxins, specifically TCDD, accumulate in human and animal tissue and are associated with immune system impairment, damage to developing nervous systems, and damage to the endocrine and reproductive systems. TCDD is listed as a “known human carcinogen” by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. https://healthymaterialslab.org/tool-guides/hml-resources

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Postconsumer Recycled Content (Postc)

Waste materials generated by households or by commercial, industrial and institutional facilities in their role as end-users of the product, which can no longer be used for their intended purpose. https://healthymaterialslab.org/tool-guides/hml-resources

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Porcelain

A strong vitreous material bonded to metal at high temperature.

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Ponding

The collection of waters in shallow pools on the top surface of a roof.

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Portland Cement

Cement made by heating clay and crushed limestone into a brick and then grinding to a pulverized powder state. Hydraulic cement produced by pulverizing clinker consisting essentially of hydraulic calcium silicates, usually containing one or more forms of calcium sulfate as an interground addition.

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Post

A vertical framing member usually designed to carry a beam. Often a 4" x 4", a 6" x 6", or a metal pipe with a flat plate on top and bottom.

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Posttensioning

A method used to place concrete under tension in which steel tenons are tensioned after the concrete has been poured and hardened.