Passive sampler uses electrostatic attraction

Technology Care, of Zurich in Switzerland, has developed a cost-effective method for monitoring airborne particles in indoor environments.

The DustCheck system employs a passive sampler to collect airborne particulate using electrostatic attraction. After the collection period, which can range from one week to a month, the sampler is sealed and sent in for analysis. Using propriety analytic techniques and algorithms, average airborne particle levels are estimated with a high degree of accuracy.

Test results are viewed at www.dustcheck.com using the ID and password supplied with each sampler. Reports include particle size as well as particle properties – for example, whether particles are inert, biological, or fibre-shaped.

DustCheck samplers can be used either as standalone units or in a monitoring station. If used in a monitoring station, test results are added to a station log that can be viewed online. The station log gives early warning of rising airborne particle levels so that contamination issues can be addressed before they impact operations or health.

All particle events and their magnitude are also recorded. This is very valuable in determining the consequences of, for example, a fire suppression gas burst or renovation work.

“The mission of DustCheck is to provide high quality air particle monitoring at an affordable price,” said Hans Wyssen, from Technology Care. “Continuous, 24/7 DustCheck monitoring not only protects critical environments, but also reassures people of your high cleanliness standards and encourages personnel to be more careful, knowing that all particle events will be recorded."

DustCheck sampler kits are available for monitoring virtually any indoor environment including data centres, cleanrooms, offices, factories, hotels, hospitals and homes.