Where are they heading next? Particles in the cleanroom

Cleanrooms and the protection of product carry two risks from contamination: particle deposition and particle dispersion. Airborne particle contamination in the healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors is a major topic of concern due to the risk of introducing particles, as impurities into products, and due to the potential to transfer microorganisms. Air quality assessments are partly based on the amount of particulate matter or particles in the air.

A cleanroom provides the environment necessary to manufacture and there are distinctive design elements intended to minimize particle ingress (HEPA filters and positive pressures); build-up (airflow); and retention (air changes).  In order to further limit the contamination of particles, the source needs to be identified.

This week’s article looks at the forces affecting the path particles might take within the cleanroom and whether or not a given cluster of particles are likely to settle.

To read the article see particles.  

Posted by Dr. Tim Sandle, Pharmaceutical Microbiology Resources (http://www.pharmamicroresources.com/)