buildup

Buildup is the gradual accumulation of matter, energy, or effects in a space, object, or system. It occurs when inputs exceed removal or clearance, and can arise in natural, technical, or biological contexts. The term is most commonly used as a noun.

In environmental and geological contexts, buildup describes sediment or debris accumulating in rivers, reservoirs, or soils, potentially altering flow, storage, and ecosystem dynamics. In urban and building settings, dust or dirt can accumulate on surfaces, reducing aesthetics and performance.

In health, buildup refers to substances that accumulate in the body, such as dental or arterial plaque, mucus, or mineral deposits, which can impair function or elevate risk if not managed.

In industry, buildup can mean mineral scale on pipes, rust or corrosion products, or residue on equipment and heat exchangers, decreasing efficiency and reliability unless removed or mitigated.

Mitigation typically involves regular cleaning and inspection, filtration or flushing, anti-fouling materials, design strategies to minimize deposition, and processes to remove or reduce input rates. The concept is also used in chemistry and physics to describe accumulation effects over time.