What is the best method in collecting and analysing air samples in the air, considering that we are interested on the pollen concentrations found in air? We have come through many methods but we don't really know what methodology will best fit our study.
There is not a best method in this case! the EPA there is a catalog of method for extract the organic matter from many materials! I prefer extract the organic matter with ultrasom extract because is most faster! but you need consult the recomended method or desenvolve your mehod!
What method of analysis do you propose? Do you intend to identify types of pollen?
Open face filters and microscopic examination is a good method for ensuring that the pollen fraction of organic material is identified. The filter should be a membrane type instead of a fiber type filter so the sample remains on the surface. You will need to know the flow rate and sampling time to determine air concentration. Use short sampling times and collect samples at different times of the day. Short sampling times will prevent build up of material that will make single pollen grains indistinguishable Several times of the day are necessary as pollen concentration and type changes with diurnal conditions.
We colecting pollen with Burcard trap. Method you can find in this article.
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/236936451_Tree_Pollen_Spectra_and_Pollen_Allergy_Risk_in_the_Osijek-Baranja_County?ev=prf_pub
Article Tree Pollen Spectra and Pollen Allergy Risk in the Osijek-Ba...
As a matter of fact, there are three types of methods used to quantify air borne pollen: passive/ gravitational sampler, rotators impact sampler, and Burkard (Burkhardt, Burcard) sampler. The most popular and widely used one is the volumetric air trap; the Burkard sampler.
We have considered using Burkard sampler. The problem now is, we are having a hard time looking for how this sampler should be operated. Also, we cannot find sources of Melinex tape. Thank you for your feedbacks.
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