Laboratory Services
Air Samples
PathCon offers materials and analysis for two common types of air samples – viable air sampling and fungal spore trap sampling. Fungi and bacteria air samples are important components of indoor air quality investigations. Airborne bacterial and fungal samples are commonly used to evaluate potential microbial exposures to occupants indoors. To evaluate potential microbial amplification, indoor concentrations are compared to those detected in the outdoor air.
Viable Air Samples
To culture viable bacteria and fungi, an impaction sampler with culture media is used. This sample type provides a concentration of viable microorganisms as well as definitive identification. Data can be used to determine microbial amplification in an indoor environment.
Fungal Spore Trap Samples
A sampling pump and spore trap cassette are used to collect fungal spores. Spore trap samples determine concentration and preliminary identification of total (nonviable and viable) fungal spores.