Microscopy of Indoor Environmental Particles

The identification of particles in an environment provides information on the types of activities at that location, the sources of make-up air, fugitive emission in the area, the efficiency of air filtration systems, and the condition of the ventilation system. It also provides information on agents in the environment that could have a detrimental effect on the building’s occupants. The use of this type of information requires a shift in our way of thinking about the environment and about how analytical information is used. The identification of particles present in an environment allows us to verify data provided by individuals who occupy that environment. Information considered unimportant by an informant may come to light and provide the insight necessary to solve the problem. Two types of particle samples are needed to characterize an environment. The first, and most important, are samples of surface particulate matter. The second is airborne particulate matter. An explanation for this ordering is provided along with a body of references and case histories demonstrating the use of this approach. Read more…….