GLOSSARY 

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G 

GALVANIC CELL

When dissimilar metals or alloys are in contact with the same body of an electrolytic solution such as sea water, a galvanic cell can be created by electrically connecting the dissimilar metals. A current then flows, accelerating the corrosion of the more active metal and preventing the corrosion of the less active metal until the more active metal is completely consumed. 

GALVANIC CORROSION

A process produced by a cell consisting of dissimilar metals or alloys in contact with the same body of an electrolytic solution such as sea water. Upon electrically connecting the dissimilar metals, a current flows, producing accelerated corrosion of the more active of the dissimilar metals or alloys. 

GALVANIC PROTECTION

The selective use of galvanic corrosion to protect one metal from deterioration by connecting it to another more active (electrically negative), sacrificial metal. Both metals must be in contact with the same body of an electrolytic solution such as sea water. Zinc, magnesium, or aluminium can be used as sacrificial metals for the galvanic protection of steel. 

GALVANIZING

Application of a zinc coating on steel by dipping it in molten zinc or by depositing zinc on the steel electrolytically. 

GELLING

Any process whereby paint or varnish thickens to jelly-like consistency.  

GENERIC

Belonging to a particular family, without brand name; non-proprietary. 

GILDING

Process of applying metal leaf (metal hammered into very thin sheets) for decorative effects. Gold, palladium, brass, and aluminium are metals commonly used in gilding wood, metal, plaster, glass, and other surfaces. 

GLAZING

A process of applying transparent or translucent coatings over a painted surface to produce blended effects of their colours. 

GLAZING COMPOUND

A dough-like material consisting of pigment and vehicle, used for sealing window glass in frames. It differs from putty in that it retains its plasticity for an extended period. 

GLOSS

The degree to which a surface reflects visual images. Gloss is a direct function of coating formulation. 

GLOSS METER

A device for measuring the light reflectance of coatings. 

GLOSS RETENTION

Ability to retain original sheen. 

GLYCOL ETHER SOLVENT

This organic solvent is a subcategory of an ester solvent. Glycol ether solvents used in paints include ethylene glycol monoethyl ether (Cellosolve), ethylene glycol monobutyl ether, ethylene glycol monoethyl ether acetate (Cellosolve acetate), and propylene glycol monomethyl ether acetate. 

GOLD LEAF

Gold pounded into extremely thin sheets or ribbons for use in gilding. 

GRAIN RAISING

Swelling of the fibres of wood caused by absorbed liquids, especially water. 

GRAININESS

Roughness of a protective film resembling grains of sand. 

GRAINING

Simulating the grain of wood by means of specially prepared colours or stains and graining tools. 

GRASSCLOTH

A wallcovering made by gluing woven native grasses onto a paper backing; also machine-printed wallcoverings that simulate grass-cloth. 

GRIT

An abrasive obtained from slag, naturally occurring minerals, steel, and various other materials. 

GROUND COAT

The coating material applied before graining colours, glazing, or other finish coat. 

GUIDE COAT

A coat similar to the finish coat but of different colour. It is applied first and then topped with the finish coat to assure complete coverage. 

GYPSUM

The principal core material in drywall panels, consisting chemically of hydrous calcium sulphate. 

GYPSUM BACKING BOARD

Gypsum panel used as a base layer in multiply construction.

GYPSUM WALLBOARD

A mill-fabricated construction panel, usually 4 by 8 feet in dimension, made of a none combustible core, essentially gypsum. 

GYPSUM WALLBOARD CONSTRUCTION

Attachment of drywall panels to framing in one or more layers to form walls and ceilings.