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Appl Environ Microbiol. 1974 April; 27(4): 706-712
Copyright © 1974 American Society for Microbiology. All Rights Reserved.

Mathematical Estimation of the Level of Microbial Contamination on Spacecraft Surfaces by Volumetric Air Sampling

G. S. Oxborrow, A. L. Roark1, N. D. Fields and J. R. Puleo

Environmental Microbiology Sectitn, Ecological Investigations Program, Center for Disease Control, Cape Canaveral, Florida 32920
Sandia Laboratories, Albuquerque, New Mexico 87113

ABSTRACT

Microbiological sampling methods presently used for enumeration of microorganisms on spacecraft surfaces require contact with easily damaged components. Estimation of viable particles on surfaces using air sampling methods in conjunction with a mathematical model would be desirable. Parameters necessary for the mathematical model are the effect of angled surfaces on viable particle collection and the number of viable cells per viable particle. Deposition of viable particles on angled surfaces closely followed a cosine function, and the number of viable cells per viable particle was consistent with a Poisson distribution. Other parameters considered by the mathematical model included deposition rate and fractional removal per unit time. A close nonlinear correlation between volumetric air sampling and airborne fallout on surfaces was established with all fallout data points falling within the 95% confidence limits as determined by the mathematical model.

FOOTNOTES

1 Present address: Wilbur Smith and Associates, Columbia, S.C. 29202.

Appl Environ Microbiol. 1974 April; 27(4): 706-712
Copyright © 1974 American Society for Microbiology. All Rights Reserved.





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Copyright © 1974 by the American Society for Microbiology. All rights reserved.