Glossary
Monolayer (chemical cover)
An ultra-thin, often single-molecule-thick film of a chemical such as cetyl or stearyl alcohol spread over a water surface to slow evaporation. Commercial products include WaterSavr.
Monolayers are inexpensive and easy to apply, but their performance is modest and sensitive to wind and temperature — reported reductions are roughly 20–40%. The film degrades and is dispersed by wind and waves, so it requires repeated reapplication, and environmental considerations apply.