Abstract
Pollen and mold counters use many types of air samplers to collect pollen grains and mold spores that are then counted using a microscope [2]. I prefer the Burkard 7 day recording volumetric spore trap. Advantages of using the Burkard include: high efficiency, greater accuracy for small fungal spores and it permits analysis for diurnal rhythms and permanent slides for future reference. The Burkard should be placed 3 to 6 stories above ground away from overhanging vegetation and unobstructed air flow from nearby buildings or structural features. The Burkard sampler head moves by orifice at 2mm per hour and air is brought in at 10 l/min. Cornstarch, skin cells, exhaust particles, and ink are among the many debris captured on a slide in addition to pollen and mold. When the wind is strong, performing the count can be time consuming. Sometimes it’s like trying to find a needle in a haystack. When preparing a slide for collection in a Burkard you’ll need lubriseal or high vacuum grease to spread a thin layer as smoothly as possible on to the slide. On a Burkard, use the formula below when calculating a single longitudinal traverse sweep along the slide.
Published Version (
Free)
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call