Glossary

AASQA (Approved Associations for Air Quality Monitoring) brings together associations responsible for monitoring air quality in each administrative region of France, both in mainland and...

Absolute humidity refers to the amount of water vapor present in a volume of air, measured in grams per kilogram of dry air. This quantity is limited by the maximum capacity of air to absorb...

Absorption dehumidification is a process where a material, such as silica gel, is used to absorb moisture from the air. This method is particularly effective in environments with low to moderate...

Activated carbon filters are air purification devices used to effectively remove odors, gases, and certain pollutants from indoor air. Due to their ability to adsorb molecules, they are...

ADEME, or the Agency for the Environment and Energy Management, is a public French agency established in 1991. It plays a crucial role in coordinating and implementing initiatives focused on...

An air conditioner is a refrigeration device designed to cool a room to the desired temperature. It works by drawing in air from the room, cooling it with a compressor, and redistributing cold...

The air decontamination process involves eliminating pathogens, pollutants, and other contaminants from indoor air. This process is essential to ensure a healthy environment and reduce health...

Air disinfection encompasses the methods and technologies designed to eliminate or neutralize microorganisms in indoor air. These processes are commonly incorporated into air purifiers, air...

An air dryer is a device used to reduce the relative humidity of the air to avoid problems related to water condensation or excessive humidity. It belongs to the family of dehumidifiers....

An air handling unit (AHU) is a system designed to provide ventilation, heating, cooling, and filtration of air within buildings. This integrated system helps maintain optimal indoor air quality...

A humidifier is an essential device for improving indoor comfort by maintaining an optimal humidity level in the air. It helps prevent the harmful effects of overly dry air, such as dry skin,...

Air ionization is a purification technique that generates a large number of negative ions through an ionizer. These negative ions come into contact with indoor air pollutants, dust, and fine...

Air micro-organisms include bacteria, viruses, and fungi present in indoor air. These micro-organisms can impact health, causing respiratory infections, allergies, or diseases. Their presence is...

Air pollutants are particles present in the air at varying concentrations. Whether liquid or gaseous, their absorption can lead to more or less severe health issues for living beings. There...

Air purification is a process that aims to purify and sanitize indoor air. This process is essential for improving air quality and creating a healthier environment inside homes and workplaces....

An air purifier is a device designed to filter the ambient air in a room to eliminate all pollutants. Used by both individuals and professionals, these devices improve air quality by purifying...

The air quality index is a measure determined by sensors that assess the levels of air pollution. These indices allow for a simple and comprehensive characterization of the air quality in urban...

Air quality sensors are devices designed to measure and assess air quality. They operate based on predefined measurements to determine if there are any exceedances of quality thresholds. Some...

An air washer is a device that combines two essential functions: humidification and air filtration. It purifies the air by mimicking the effect of rain, providing an eco-friendly solution for...

An air-purifying plant is a plant that helps reduce the amount of indoor pollutants such as VOCs (volatile organic compounds), formaldehyde, carbon monoxide, toluene, ammonia, and benzene. These...

Airing an indoor space means bringing fresh air into a closed area. This helps to purify the air and eliminate moisture, preventing condensation issues. To avoid humidity problems, an...

Airparif is an independent association established in 1979, accredited by the Ministry of the Environment, specializing in monitoring air quality across Île-de-France. Its four main missions are:...

An allergy is an immune reaction to normally harmless substances, such as pollen, pet dander, or certain foods. This phenomenon results from a malfunction of the immune system. More than 10% of...

ANSES: National Agency for Health and Safety ANSES (National Agency for Health and Safety) is an independent agency responsible for ensuring public health safety in France. It operates under...

Aromatherapy is a therapeutic method based on the use of essential oils , volatile essences extracted from aromatic plants. Used since ancient times, it can be applied topically, orally, by...

The AromaWave™ function, featured in certain essential oil diffusers, is a patented technology by air&me. It alternates diffusion times of 10 minutes with pauses of 20 minutes. This process...

Asthma is a chronic condition characterized by varying degrees of inflammation in the airways, particularly in the bronchi and bronchioles. It manifests through physical symptoms such as:...

The Atmospheric Protection Plan (PPA) is a mandatory administrative document for all municipalities with populations exceeding 250,000. It outlines objectives, measures, and regulations aimed at...

Bactericide – A bactericide refers to a product or technology designed to eliminate or inhibit the growth of bacteria in indoor air . These solutions are commonly integrated into air...

Benzene (C 6 H 6 ) is an aromatic hydrocarbon and one of the main components of crude oil. At room temperature, it appears as a stable, colorless, and volatile liquid that emits a characteristic...

The CADR , or Clean Air Delivery Rate , is a crucial measure for assessing the effectiveness of air purifiers. It indicates the volume of purified air an air purifier can deliver per minute....

The CADR, or Clean Air Delivery Rate (Taux de Livraison d'Air Pur), is a measure used to evaluate the efficiency of air purifiers. It indicates the volume of purified air an air purifier can...

Cancer is a disease caused by the transformation of healthy cells into abnormal cells that proliferate excessively. These cells can form a mass known as a "malignant tumor." Cancerous cells tend...

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless, flammable, and highly toxic gas formed during the incomplete combustion of organic materials (gas, coal, fuel oil, wood...). The main source of...

Chronic exposure refers to prolonged exposure to air pollutants that can lead to adverse health effects, such as respiratory disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and long-term complications. This...

Cleaning products are chemical mixtures used to clean or maintain living spaces. They are characterized by their pH, or hydrogen potential, and the level of surfactants they contain—higher...

CO2 emissions refer to carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas present in indoor air, especially in poorly ventilated spaces. This gas is produced by human respiration, heating devices, and other...

The CO2 sensor is a device used to measure the concentration of carbon dioxide in the air. It is essential for assessing indoor air quality, especially in enclosed spaces such as offices,...

A cold vapor humidifier is a device that uses a cooling process to release cool mist and increase humidity in the air. Unlike traditional air humidifiers, it does not generate heat. It turns...

The column fan is a vertical fan model particularly suited for narrower spaces or modern environments. Its vertical design allows for efficient air circulation while occupying minimal space,...

The compact fan is a small-sized device designed to be used in limited spaces such as offices, bedrooms, or small rooms. Due to its compactness, it efficiently cools the air without taking up...

The compressor is a key technology used in some dehumidifiers to effectively remove humidity from the air. In a compressor dehumidifier , humid air is drawn in by a powerful fan and directed...

A lift pump is a device designed to evacuate the water collected in the reservoir of air dehumidifiers or air conditioners , also known as condensate. Unlike continuous drainage, which...

Condensation is a physical phenomenon where water vapor (gas) changes into a more condensed state, either solid (frost) or liquid. This usually happens on windows when warm indoor air comes into...

VMC is a ventilation system that regulates the intake of fresh air and the extraction of stale air from a building. It ensures optimal air quality by expelling moisture, odors, and pollutants...

It is essential to distinguish between the term “coronavirus” and the terms “SARS-CoV-2” and “COVID-19”. In 2019, a virus identified in China was officially named “SARS-CoV-2” (severe acute...

It is essential to differentiate between the terms “COVID-19”, “SARS-CoV-2”, and “coronavirus”. The virus identified in China in December 2019 is officially named “SARS-CoV-2”, which stands for...

Decrease in productivity can be directly linked to air quality, particularly when the air is polluted (dry, humid air, etc.). Atmospheric pollution, which includes elements such as dust, mold, and...

A dehumidifier is an electrical device designed to reduce the humidity level of the air in a room. It is used to solve problems related to high humidity, such as condensation on walls and...

A device designed to reduce the relative humidity of the air, particularly effective in spaces with moderate to high temperatures. This type of dehumidifier works with a compressor that condenses...

Air desiccation is a technique for removing moisture from the air, also known as dehydration. It is commonly used in desiccant dehumidifiers, which are particularly effective for treating humidity...

Domestic animals are animals raised to live closely with humans. This includes farm animals such as horses, cattle, sheep, and chickens, as well as pets like dogs, cats, rabbits, and birds....

Air is considered dry when the relative humidity is below 40%. The ideal humidity level is between 40% and 60%. Air that is too dry can cause various inconveniences in your home and affect your...

The Drying Mode is a feature available on certain dehumidifiers, designed to speed up the drying process of your laundry while being more energy-efficient. This mode dries your clothes quickly...

Dust is a combination of various elements suspended in the air, held together by static electricity. It typically consists of textile fibers, mold and fungus spores, pollen, tiny insect...

The ECARF (European Centre for Allergy Research Foundation) quality label is designed to help consumers with allergies choose suitable products and services. Since 2006, the ECARF Foundation has...

An EHPAD (Établissement d’Hébergement pour Personnes Âgées Dépendantes) is a French term for a facility designed to accommodate individuals who have lost physical or mental autonomy. These...

Electric heating works by distributing heat through electrical resistances. It is powered by electricity, and its consumption is measured in kW. This type of heating is often appreciated for its...

The electrostatic precipitator is a device that efficiently removes airborne particles, such as dust, pollutants, and allergens. It works by electrically charging these particles, which are then...

EPA filters (or high-efficiency filters according to the EN 1822:2009 standard) are highly effective at filtering airborne particles. They are mainly used in air purifiers for residential use...

An essential oil diffuser is a device designed to disperse essential oils into the air, creating a beneficial atmosphere for well-being. Depending on the model, diffusers use different...

An evaporative humidifier is a device that uses a natural process to humidify the air. It works by circulating air through a water-soaked filter, allowing the water to naturally evaporate into the...

Exhaust gases are produced from the combustion of various fuels, including diesel and gasoline. They form a complex mixture of gases, vapors, aerosols, and particulates. The exact nature of...

A fan is a device designed to create an artificial airflow, providing a cooling sensation, especially useful during heatwaves or periods of high temperatures. It operates through an electric motor...

The FIMEA , or Interprofessional Federation of Atmospheric Environment Professions, has the main missions of: Preserving the health of citizens by improving air quality, Structuring and...

The floor fan is a type of fan designed to be placed directly on the floor, allowing for an efficient horizontal airflow. This fan type is ideal for spreading air over a wide surface, offering...

The Fondation du Souffle is an organization that brings together all stakeholders and donors involved in the fight against respiratory diseases at the national level. Its main missions are to:...

Formaldehyde is an organic compound classified as a carcinogen for humans upon repeated exposure. In addition to its carcinogenic effects, formaldehyde is highly irritating to the skin, eyes, and...

Fossil fuels refer to energy sources produced from fossilized rocks, such as petroleum , natural gas , and coal . These resources are limited in quantity and non-renewable. Their combustion...

Fungal infections are mainly caused by fungi, such as molds and yeasts. These infections typically affect the skin but can also lodge in the lungs, causing respiratory issues. Some fungi, like...

Germs are micro-organisms that are invisible to the naked eye and can reproduce rapidly in large numbers. They can affect indoor air quality and harm our health. Three main types of germs can be...

Greenhouse Gases (GHG) are harmful gases that absorb a portion of the infrared rays emitted by the Sun and redistribute them as heat within the Earth's lower atmosphere, a phenomenon known as...

A thermal transfer device designed to recover and exchange heat between two fluids, typically air and water or two air circuits. It plays a critical role in ventilation systems and heating...

A space heater is a portable device designed to warm the air in a specific room. It is typically used in addition to central or collective heating systems to avoid turning on the entire system...

The HEPA filter (High Efficiency Particulate Air) is recognized as the most effective means of filtering airborne microparticles, such as dirt, pollen, bacteria, and any particles larger than...

HEPASilent® is an exclusive and patented technology by Blueair , combining two filtration modes: mechanical and electrostatic. This combination allows devices equipped with HEPASilent®...

The choice of a home dehumidifier depends on the room temperature, as each technology reacts differently to ambient conditions. A home dehumidifier is a device designed to reduce and maintain an...

A hot steam humidifier is a device that works by heating water to produce steam, which is then released into the air as warm mist. This type of air humidifier is especially effective in combating...

Air is considered humid when its relative humidity exceeds 60%. Excessively humid air can lead to various health issues such as rhinitis, asthma attacks, bronchitis, as well as general discomfort...

Humidity control refers to a system or method used to maintain a stable and optimal humidity level in a room. This control is essential for preserving air quality, preventing mold growth, and...

Humidity measurement is the process of quantifying the humidity in a given environment. It helps assess the indoor air humidity level, a crucial data point for maintaining optimal air quality...

Humidity reduction refers to the action of lowering the moisture levels in the air of a space. This process is essential to prevent problems caused by excess humidity, such as mold formation and...

A humidity sensor is a device used to detect and measure humidity in the air. This sensor helps monitor humidity levels and alerts to any excessive variation, which can be crucial in preventing...

A hybrid humidifier combines multiple technologies to improve air humidity. It can use both cold vapor and warm vapor methods, providing a flexible and efficient solution to maintain an optimal...

A hygrometer is a meteorological instrument used to measure the relative humidity of the air, expressed as a percentage (%). It helps determine the humidity level in your indoor environment,...

Hygrometric balance refers to the condition where the humidity level in the air is considered optimal for the health and comfort of the occupants. A high humidity level can promote the growth of...

HygroSmart® is a patented technology by air&me that simplifies the use of a humidifier or dehumidifier . This technology enables the automatic on/off control of the device based on a...

An hygrostat is a function that controls the automatic turning on and off of a device based on a pre-programmed humidity percentage. This feature allows an appliance, such as a humidifier or...

Indoor air quality refers to the condition of the air we breathe in enclosed environments such as offices, schools, homes, and public places. On average, we spend 22 hours a day indoors, and it...

Indoor fragrances are products that allow you to scent the atmosphere inside your home, creating a pleasant and welcoming ambiance. Among the most common solutions to fragrance the air and mask...

The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) is an intergovernmental agency for cancer research, established in 1965 by the World Health Organization (WHO).

The Interprofessional Technical Center for Atmospheric Pollution Studies (CITEPA), established in 1961, is the technical reference center for atmospheric pollution and climate change. Its...

An air ionizer is a technology found in certain air purifiers, humidifiers, or dehumidifiers used to purify the air. The "negative ionization" function generates a large number of negative...

A microparticle is a tiny particle ranging in size from 0.1 to 100 μm. There are two types of microparticles: Natural microparticles : These result from natural processes such as volcanic...

A misting device is a type of humidifier that creates and disperses a fine mist from a liquid, typically clean water. The misting effect encourages the formation of fine water droplets, which,...

Mites are tiny creatures, relatives of insects and crustaceans (arthropods), found in household dust. They are most commonly found in mattresses , pillows , and carpets , where they feed on...

Mold consists of microscopic fungi that are naturally present in the air. It enters homes through air currents and can be brought in by humans or pets. Mold primarily develops in response to...

The National Institute for Health and Medical Research (INSERM) is a French public institution dedicated to advancing and innovating in Public Health. It brings together numerous researchers...

The National Institute for Industrial Environment and Risks (INERIS) is a public institution established in 1990, directly linked to the Ministry of Ecology. Its mission is to assess and...

The National Institute for Public Health Surveillance (INVS) was a French public health agency that existed from 1998 to 2016. It was replaced by the National Public Health Agency (ANSP) ,...

Negative ionization is a process where negative ions are generated to purify the air. These ions, also known as anions, bind to positively charged particles, such as dust, allergens, or chemical...

Nitrogen dioxide (NO2) is a toxic reddish-brown gas and one of the major pollutants in the Earth's atmosphere. It is formed from nitrogen monoxide (NO), primarily during the combustion of fossil...

Occupational Exposure Limits (OEL) refer to the concentration levels of chemical pollutants that should not be exceeded in the air of workplaces. These limits are established by ANSES (National...

Optifilter™: Air Purifier Filter Replacement Optimization System Replacing an air purifier filter can be a barrier to purchase. Optifilter™ is a patented technology by air&me that...

An oscillating fan is a device that rotates on an axis to distribute air more evenly throughout a room. Unlike a stationary fan, it spreads the air over a larger area, ensuring optimal air...

Outdoor air quality is one of the primary health and environmental concerns. It is influenced by human activities such as industry and transportation, as well as natural phenomena like volcanic...

Ozone (O3) is a gas present in the Earth's atmosphere, forming a layer several kilometers thick at altitudes between 20 and 50 km. This ozone layer primarily absorbs UV (ultraviolet) rays...

A particle counter is a device designed to measure the number of particles present in the air. It is also known as a particle counting probe and can detect fine particles such as PM10 and PM2.5....

Fine particles (PM) – Fine particles, one of the main airborne pollutants , are closely linked to outdoor and indoor air pollution . Due to their small size, they can penetrate deep into the...

The Peltier effect is a thermoelectric phenomenon discovered in 1834 by physicist Jean-Charles Peltier. It involves the movement of heat induced by an electric current when two conductive...

Photocatalysis is a chemical process that uses a catalyst, often made of titanium dioxide (TiO2), activated by light, usually in the form of UV rays. When exposed to light, this catalyst breaks...

The photocatalyst is an advanced air purification technology that uses a chemical reaction activated by light to effectively break down pollutants present in indoor air. When exposed to light...

PM10, PM2.5, and PM1 (Particulate Matter) are airborne particles made up of various substances, both natural and derived from human activities. Recognized as air pollutants, these particles are...

Pollen is a reproductive element produced by the male organs of plants, transported by insects, animals, or the wind to reach the female organs. Although natural, pollen causes allergic...

Radon (Rn-222) is a rare, radioactive, colorless, and odorless gas resulting from the decay of radium (Ra-226), itself a byproduct of uranium (U-238) naturally found in the Earth's crust....

Reducing volatile organic compounds (VOCs) involves methods or devices designed to lower their concentration in indoor air. These substances, often released by paints, furniture, or household...

Relative humidity is the ratio of the amount of water vapor in a volume of air to the maximum capacity of that air to hold water vapor, expressed as a percentage (%). It is influenced by the air...

The Sick Building Syndrome (SBS), also known as Syndrome du Bâtiment Malsain (SBM), emerged in the 1970s. It is characterized by the occurrence of various symptoms, such as headaches, a...

Smog is a thick brownish haze that limits visibility in the atmosphere. It consists of fine particles from fossil fuels, such as coal-fired power plants and exhaust gases, as well as...

The SmokeStop filter is an innovative filter developed by Blueair , designed for use in air purifiers. Featuring a honeycomb structure with multiple layers, it maintains maximum airflow while...

The sound level refers to the measure of the intensity of noise, typically converted into decibels (dB). This scale classifies sounds from 0 to 140 dB, and occasionally beyond in extreme cases....

A spore is a cell or a group of cells capable of reproduction. It can develop autonomously and asexually, meaning it can give rise to a new individual without merging with another reproductive...

Stale air refers to polluted air that has been contaminated, often due to the presence of living beings, including humans and animals. The quality of indoor air can be measured using an air...

Steam air purification is an innovative process that uses steam to effectively remove airborne contaminants. This method helps reduce indoor pollutants, such as allergens, bacteria, and mold,...

Sulfur dioxide (SO₂) is a colorless gas with a suffocating odor, primarily produced by the combustion of fossil fuels (coal and oil) and the smelting of sulfur-containing ores. It is also...

Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) is a colorless gas produced by the combustion of fossil fuels (coal and oil) and the smelting of sulfur-containing iron ores. It is also emitted by residential heating,...

The table fan is a small device designed to be placed on a table surface or desk, offering targeted and convenient airflow. Perfect for compact spaces, it provides a refreshing breeze without...

Temperature is a physical concept that refers to the sensation of heat and cold. On a macroscopic scale, it is directly related to the agitation and movement of atoms and molecules. In...

The Territorial Climate Air Energy Plan (PCAET) is an essential planning tool that defines, coordinates, and plans national and international objectives related to air quality, climate, and...

The thermostat is a technological system designed to maintain and regulate temperature within a given space, keeping it as constant as possible. It allows for the control of all heating devices...

The threshold of sensitization of a pollutant is the concentration and duration limit that the body can tolerate before reacting. Exceeding this threshold may trigger symptoms, such as an asthma...

Toxic molds are fungi that produce mycotoxins, substances that can have harmful effects on human health. They typically grow in humid, poorly ventilated environments and can be found on organic...

ULPA filters (Ultra Low Penetration Air) are high-performance filters capable of trapping microparticles and ensuring clean air. They are mainly used in air purifiers or air purification...

An ultrasonic air humidifier is a device designed to improve air quality in a room by increasing humidity levels. It works by using ultrasonic waves to turn water into fine droplets, which are...

An ultrasonic plate is a metal plate integrated into certain air humidifiers . By vibrating slightly, the plate "breaks" the water molecules, producing a fine mist or fog that is visible to the...

UV Air Purifier and Filter UV air filtration is a technology that combines a short-wave UV lamp, typically with a wavelength of 254 nanometers, and a titanium dioxide (TiO2) plate. UV air...

UV-C air treatment uses ultraviolet C rays to kill air-borne micro-organisms . This air purification technology is effective in eliminating bacteria, viruses, and fungi, reducing the risks of...

Ventilation refers to creating an airflow to renew indoor air. There are two types of ventilation: Natural ventilation : Air enters the home through air passages like ventilation grilles or...

Mechanical Ventilation (VMC) refers to a system that ensures the renewal of air in a building, thus guaranteeing optimal air quality. There are several types of VMC: Single-flow VMC...

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are volatile molecules containing at least one carbon atom, characterized by their ability to float in the air and easily disperse into the atmosphere. These...

A warm mist humidifier is a device designed to increase air humidity by releasing warm steam at a moderate temperature. It works by heating water to create steam, which is then released as a...

The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations for health, established on April 7, 1948. Its main mission is to bring all populations to the highest possible...