What Substance Does Mildew Come From?
Mildew can plague any household, but it needs a source of moisture in order to grow. Mildew can cause adverse health effects under some circumstances, but in most cases it simply presents a household annoyance. If mildew has suddenly appeared out of nowhere, whether in your shower or on a household fixture, you may wonder about its specific origin. Does this Spark an idea?
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Mold Spores
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Mildew forms on surfaces when mold spores begin to germinate. Mildew is nothing more than the growth produced by mold, according to a University of Missouri Extension report. When mold spores bond with water, they begin to germinate, meaning that they undergo a process of becoming live, or active. The mildew in a home may result from numerous mold types, including Aspergillus, Penicillium or even Stachybotrys chartarum (the spores responsible for black mold colonies).
Chitin
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Chitin is the substance found in the cell walls of all fungi, including the spores responsible for mildew. It is the one component that unites molds, yeasts, rusts and even mushrooms. While not all mold varieties contain the same chemical composition, they all contain chitin within their cells. Chitin protects and preserves the fungus, allowing it to thrive and multiply.
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Germination
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To put it simply, mildew consists of water and mold spores. Mold spores need water in order to become active, which explains why you often find mildew in places like showers, flooded carpets and humid rooms. Dry, inactive mildew cannot breed or colonize. If you find mildew anywhere in your home, you can safely conclude that airborne mold spores have found a source of moisture in which to germinate.
Volatile Organic Compounds
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When mold spores begin to germinate, they emit volatile organic compounds, or "VOCs," airborne microorganisms. These organisms include alcohols, aldehydes, keytones and hydrocarbons, and they emerge as a result of chemical reactions during the breeding process. These compounds are responsible for the musty odor that usually accompanies mold and mildew infestations. These compounds can bring about symptoms such as headaches, dizziness and disorientation if you ingest them for an extended period of time.
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