Microscopy Based Mold Analysis
At Assured Bio Labs, we examine spore trap air samples, swabs, tape lifts, and bulk materials for mold spores, hyphae, and other fungal structures. Samples are examined directly under a microscope, without culturing, to support indoor air quality investigations and assessments of suspected mold growth.
Air samples: Spore trap results include fungal spore counts reported as spores per cubic meter of air. An outdoor comparison sample can help place indoor findings in context.
Surface and bulk samples: Swab, tape-lift, and bulk results provide qualitative descriptions of fungal material and its relative abundance in the submitted sample.
Identification: Results identify distinguishable fungal genera or morphological groups. Microscopy does not provide species-level identification or determine whether the observed fungal material is viable.
Select MoldScan on the Chain of Custody form to request this analysis.
Standard turnaround: 1 business day. The day the sample is received is day zero.
Discuss microscopy testing with our laboratory or call 1-866-547-1727.
Collecting & Submitting Samples
Spore-Trap Air Samples
Use a compatible air sampling pump and follow the cassette manufacturer’s instructions for flow rate and collection duration. Record the flow rate, sampling time, and total air volume on the Chain of Custody form. Contact the laboratory about sampling conditions that may require a reduced collection volume to avoid overloading.
Swabs & Tape Lifts
Use an appropriate sampling device to collect material from the suspected growth. Follow the device’s collection instructions and protect the collected sample from contamination during packaging and transport. Record the sampled location on the Chain of Custody form.
Bulk Materials
Submit a representative piece of the material in a clean, securely sealed container or bag. Contact the laboratory for guidance on sample size and packaging before collection.
Sample Documentation
Label each sample with a unique identifier matching the Chain of Custody form. Select MoldScan as the requested analysis and identify any outdoor comparison samples.