MICROCONTAMINATION TEST DESCRIPTIONS


Particle Cleanliness, ASTM F51

In this test, a garment is vacuumed using an aerosol sampler containing an 0.8um membrane filter. Particles are pulled off of the surface of the garment and trapped on the membrane. The number of particles >5um per square foot of garment is determined microscopically. This test is intended for evaluating garments made from woven fabrics and measures the cleanliness of the fabric surface.

Particle Cleanliness, Helmke Drum

In this test, a garment or consumable is tumbled in a stainless steel drum while particle counts are taken in the air above it. An Airborne Particle Counter is used to determine the number of particles >0.3um per cubic foot of air. This test was initially developed for true barrier garments, such as those made from laminates or coated fabrics, but has been adapted to all types of cleanroom supplies. This test measures easily releasable particles on the items surface.

Particle Cleanliness, Wet Test

In this test, a portion of the sample is rinsed with ultrapure DI water, which is then tested for particles >0.1um using SEM, particles >0.3um using a Liquid Particle Counter or particles >5um and fibers using optical microscopy.

Particle Containment (Body Box) Test

This test determines the amount of particle contamination released into a clean chamber while a garment is being worn. The number of particles >0.3um using an Airborne Particle Counter. The total number of particles is a function of the cleanliness of the garment, the openness of the fabric weave and the garment design.

Filtration Efficiency, Air

In this test, the fabric is challenged with air containing a known quantity of particles. The number of particles passing through the fabric is determined using an Airborne Particle Counter and the filtration efficiency of the fabric calculated. This is intended for woven fabric's barrier properties in an airborne environment. The test is performed in accordance with IES-RP-CC003.2.

Particle Transfer (Contact) Test

This test is based on the tape lift method described in ASTM E1216. A piece of clean tape is applied to the surface of the sample for a designated time and a specific mass placed on top of it. The tape is then removed and the number of particles and fibers counted microscopically. Test results can offer an indication of an item's tendency to shed particles when subjected to a moderate adhesive force.

Non-volatile Residue

In this test, the sample is soaked or boiled in a given solvent for a specified period of time. The solvent is then filtered and evaporated, and the remaining residue weighed. This test is useful in evaluating the potential for an item to cause chemical contamination.

Extractable Ions

In this test, the sample is soaked in DI water for a specified period of time. The water is then tested for anions and cations using Ion Chromatography and/or ICP spectroscopy. Results are reported in ppb (nanograms of ion per gram of sample).

 

 

* - Reminder Test results can vary between Laboratories due to differences in analytical equipment. If comparing one product to another, it is best to submit both products to the sam lab for
side-by-side testing.