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Electrochemical Growth Curves of Bio-Indicators for Sick Building Syndrome Diagnostics

School of the Built and Natural Environment Glasgow Caledonian University

K.E. Aidoo

School of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow, UK

M.J. Hepher

School of the Built and Natural Environment Glasgow Caledonian University

M. EI-Sharif

School of the Built and Natural Environment Glasgow Caledonian University

N. Hytiris

School of the Built and Natural Environment Glasgow Caledonian University

Studies on electrochemical growth curve bio-indicators leading to the electrochemical growth curves approach for sick building syndrome (SBS) diagnostics are dis cussed. The ideas incorporated within electrochemical growth curve studies, i.e. the conductance, capacitance and impedance of plated out and slope nutrient gels, vary according to the micro-organism type and number of cells (spores) present. Thus, this observation may be applied to the design and study of real-time diagnostics for SBS. Using formaldehyde at selected concentrations within the OEL, COSHH regulation concentration levels, the conductivity, capacitance and impedance growth curves for Aspergillus parasiticus were examined using a Bactometer. Reproducibility ofthese curves and trigger levels of pollutant causing significant deviation from nor mal growth conductivity, capacitance and impedance curves is reported. The overall approach is evaluated as a possible technique for SBS diagnostics for other pollu tants including: ozone, carbon monoxide, carbon diox ide, sulphur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide.

Key Words: Bactometer • Aspergillus flavus • Sick building syndrome • Indoor air pollution • Impedance (conductance • capacitance) • Electrochemical growth curves

Indoor and Built Environment, Vol. 10, No. 3-4, 238-243 (2001)
DOI: 10.1177/1420326X0101000318


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