As environmental system designers, we are often asked where to place sample points for particle monitoring, whether it be performed in a pharmaceutical cleanroom or clean device (RABS, isolator, etc.).
A Comparison of Particle Counting Solutions for UPW
Through continuous process and equipment advancements, semiconductor manufacturers are approaching 14 nm feature sizes and heading even smaller, while hard-disk drive fly heights are now less than 10 nm. This ever-reducing device feature size requires comparable cleanliness-level improvements in ultrapure water (UPW). UPW purity is especially important with its high use in direct contact with wafers as a final cleaning and rinsing agent in many production steps. Leveraging recent advances in laser optics and detector technology, UPW particle concentration ≥20 nm (≥9 nm for metallic particles) can be effectively monitored.
Sneak Peek of SurCapt Microbial Surface Detection Kit at MD&M West
Particle Measuring Systems just completed another successful MD&M show with strong results, meeting with current clients and reaching out to new businesses. Our show message was As experts in good manufacturing practice regulations (GMPs), microbiology and environmental monitoring, we help you assure sterility when and where you need it most. Supporting this statement, PMS brought a comprehensive range of microbial and particle products including the BioCapt Single Use Microbial Impactor and the MiniCapt Mobile Air Sampler. The Lasair III particle counter rounded out the contamination monitoring solutions. As a special attraction this year, PMS provided a sneak peek to the soon to be released SurCapt Microbial Surface Detection Kit (learn more next week).
Are your particle counters ISO 14644-1 compliant?
Are your particle counters ISO 14644-1 compliant and able to be calibrated to all required tests according to ISO 21504-4?
New paper: ISO 14644 Revisions Summary
The recent revision of ISO 14644-1 and-2 has introduced several changes for cleanroom classification and monitoring guidelines. This paper highlights the major changes in the new ISO 14644-1 compared to the previous version, as well as the possible impact on the Pharmaceutical EU GMP Annex 1 and FDA Aseptic Processing Guideline.
Gilberto Dalmaso, PhD Contributes to PHSS Book
Gilberto Dalmaso, Global Aseptic Process Development Manager at Particle Measuring Systems, has contributed to a newly released book with Rapid Microbial Methods (RMM), published by The Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Sciences Society. The book, titled PHSS Technical Mongraph No. 20 Bio-contamination, is a comprehensive review and best practice guide on bio-contamination characterization, risk profiling, control, monitoring and deviation management. It applies to controlled environments in GMP and non sterile applications where Bioburden control is required.
