Paper / pulp testing dipslides - Process water testing. Paper / Pulp: Process Water Dipslides Our Paper Mill Dipslides test for bacteria, yeasts and moulds (fungi). They feature a different agar (strip of culture medium) on each side of the dipslide. One side of the dipslide has Nutrient TTC agar. Nutrient TTC agar tests for / grows aerobic bacteria colonies. The bacteria on this agar will grow as red spots, making it easier to view and count colonies. The other side of the dipslide features Malt Extract agar. This agar tests for / grows yeasts and moulds colonies. If there is bacteria, yeasts or moulds in your sample, it will grow on these agars as colonies / dots. You then need to compare the amount of dots on the dipslide to the amount of dots on the chart provided to assess the level of contamination. To use the test, you can either dip the slide into your sample, swab onto the dipslide or press the slide against a surface. Once your sample has been transferred onto the dipslide, you then incubate the dipslide. After incubation, you can then count the colonies / spots and compare with the chart. A step by step pictorial guide can be found further down the page. Why do I need to test paper process waters for bacteria? Process waters used in the production of paper can become contaminated by microbiological organisms. If the waters contain high levels of bacteria, yeasts and moulds, it can negatively affect the heath of workers within the production facilities. The inhalation of bacteria as well as skin contact can contribute to respiratory and skin conditions. Pathogenic bacteria such as legionella can also be present. Due to process waters in paper production being recycled, it is even more likely to become contaminated with micro organisms. Add to this, the temperature of the water and the nutrients within the water (starch etc), process waters are a perfect environment for microbial growth. A study undertaken by HSE (http://www.hse.gov.uk/research/rrpdf/rr1105.pdf) found that: "In summary, this study of nine representative paper mills has provided evidence that bacteria multiply in process waters to concentrations often in excess of 10 million culturable bacteria per ml" (equivalent to 107 on our dipslide comparison chart). As well as worker health, contaminated water containing biofilm can affect the operation of machinery and the quality of the end product. How to use Paper Mill Dipslides Step 1 : Remove slide Carefully remove the sterile Pulp / Paper dip slide from its tube ensuring that no contact is made with the agar (to avoid contamination). Step 2 : If Surface Testing For surface testing, press the Pulp / Paper dipslide onto the surface. If needed, place a finger on the bottom of the slide (on the plastic, not the agar) to apply extra pressure. Step 2 : If liquid testing For liquid testing, immerse the Pulp / Paper dipslide into the fluid for 10 seconds then remove and allow to drain for a few seconds. Step 2 : If swab testing Apply a sample of the test substance to a sterile swab and gently apply to the agars. Step 3 : Incubate Slide Label the tube with the included stickers then place the slide into an incubator and allow to incubate. Step 4 : Compare results Count the amount of colonies that have grown on the slide and compare them to the comparison chart provided. Paper Mill Dipslides Features Flexible Paddle Each dipslide features a virtually unbreakable and flexible paddle allowing for even, full surface testing. Easy Run Off Design Due to the design of the dipslide, fluids will drain off quickly during testing. Recessed Handle Each slide has a handle built into the lid that is recessed to help keep your fingers dry during testing. Side Indicator One side of the slide will have a circle indicator so you know which side was used for testing which type of contaminant. Dual Sided Each dipslide is dual sided to allow multiple contamination testing with one test. Thick Reliable Agar Each agar is thick (approx 4mm) and raised above the dipslide to allow for easy surface testing. Reading The Results Nutrient Side Level of infection in liquids (CFU/ml) 102 103 104 105 106 107 Approx colonies per agar 2 12 60 200 500 600+ Example Image Level of infection on surfaces (CFU/cm2) 0.4 2.5 12 40 100 250 Malt Extract Side Level of yeasts in liquids (CFU/ml) 102 103 104 105 106 107 Approx yeasts colonies per agar 2 12 60 200 500 600+ Example Image Level of yeasts on surfaces (CFU/cm2) 0.4 2.5 12 40 100 250 Malt Extract Side Level of moulds Light Medium Heavy Example Image Customer Questions Q What level of contamination is unacceptable for paper mill proces
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