Laboratory Equipment & Services Information System by Centralized Laboratory Management Office (CeLMO)

A dual impaction bioaerosol sampler is a type of air sampler used to collect biological particles (such as bacteria, fungi, viruses, and pollen) suspended in the air. These samplers are designed to capture bioaerosols for further analysis, typically for research purposes, environmental monitoring, or occupational health and safety assessments.

In addition to the basics, here are some more details about dual impaction bioaerosol samplers: Particle Size Collection Range: Dual impaction samplers are designed to capture a wide range of particle sizes typically ranging from a few micrometers to several tens of micrometers in diameter. This range covers most bioaerosols of interest, including bacteria, fungi, viruses, and pollen. Collection Substrates: The dual impaction design allows for the collection of bioaerosol particles on two distinct substrates or stages within the sampler. Common collection substrates include agar plates, gelatin filters, and other specialized media designed to promote the growth or capture of microorganisms. Sampling Efficiency: Dual impaction samplers are known for their high sampling efficiency, meaning they can efficiently collect a significant portion of the bioaerosols present in the sampled air. This efficiency is essential for obtaining representative samples for subsequent analysis. Sampling Rate and Duration: The sampling rate (flow rate) and duration of sampling can vary depending on the specific sampler model and application requirements. Higher flow rates may allow for more rapid sampling, while longer sampling durations may be necessary to achieve adequate sample volumes, especially in environments with low bioaerosol concentrations.

Dual impaction bioaerosol samplers are used in a wide range of applications, including indoor air quality assessment, environmental monitoring in healthcare facilities and agricultural settings, occupational health studies in workplaces with potential bioaerosol exposure, and research on airborne pathogens and allergens. Bioaerosol samples collected using dual impaction samplers can be analyzed using various techniques, including microscopy (e.g., light microscopy, electron microscopy), molecular biology methods (e.g., polymerase chain reaction, DNA sequencing), and culture-based methods (e.g., agar plate culture).