Literature Review of Surface Sample Collection Methods
Abstract
The U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Chemical Biological Center reviewed surface sample collection methods to identify which methods effectively detected biological threat agents dispersed via aerosol at relatively low concentrations. The review was conducted by analyzing various studies evaluating the collection methods of vacuuming, swabbing, and wiping biological threat agents from various surfaces. More than 30 reports were analyzed, but only 21 had sufficient data to report. Vacuum sampling was most efficient for collection of biological agents from large, porous surface areas. Swab sampling was most appropriate for sampling small areas with high agent concentrations; moist swabs were preferable to dry swabs. Wipe sampling often resulted in higher recovery efficiencies and lower limits of detection than vacuum or swab sampling and may be most practical for sampling larger areas; premoistened wipes were often preferable to dry. It was concluded that all sample collection methods were effective for detecting different concentrations of various biological agents dispersed via aerosol; however, environmental and situational factors and surface type differences will determine the best method for sample collection. Additionally, gaps in the studies reviewed made it difficult to make direct comparisons between sampling methods and materials.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 2021
- Accession Number
- AD1154428
Entities
People
- Elaina Southworth
- Isaac R. Fruchey
- Julie Crowder
- Martin Zuniga
- Ryan Adams-brown
- Samantha Geisler
Organizations
- Booz Allen Hamilton
- United States Army Soldier Systems Center