Deposition velocities of airborne microbe-carrying particles

Whyte, W. and Eaton, T. (2016) Deposition velocities of airborne microbe-carrying particles. European Journal of Parenteral and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 21(2), pp. 45-49.

Abstract

The deposition velocity of airborne microbe-carrying particles (MCPs) falling towards surfaces was obtained experimentally in operating theatres and cleanrooms. The airborne concentrations of MCPs, and their deposition rate onto surfaces, are related by the deposition velocity, and measurements made by a microbial air sampler and settle plates allowed deposition velocities to be calculated. The deposition velocity of MCPs was found to vary with the airborne concentration, with higher deposition rates occurring at lower airborne concentrations. Knowledge of the deposition velocity allows the deposition on surfaces, such as product or settle plates, by a known airborne concentration of MCPs to be predicted, as well as the airborne concentration that should not be exceeded for a specified product contamination rate. The relationship of airborne concentration and settle plate counts of MCPs used in Annex 1 of the EU Guidelines to Good Manufacturing Practice to specify grades of pharmaceutical cleanrooms was reassessed, and improvements suggested.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Whyte, Dr William
• Authors: Whyte, W., and Eaton, T.
• College/School: College of Science and Engineering > School of Engineering
• Journal Name: European Journal of Parenteral and Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Publisher: Euromed Communications
• ISSN: 0964-4679
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © 2016 Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Sciences Society
• First Published: First published in European Journal of Parenteral and Pharmaceutical Sciences 21(2): 45-49
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced with the permission of the Publisher