how to combat fungal growth in thd clean room

Environmental control, monitoring and cleaning, material selection and protection design for fungal growth in THd Cleanrooms, in-depth discussion on how to effectively inhibit fungal growth in THd CleanRooms to ensure cleanroom compliance and production quality. 

Environmental conditions for fungal growth

1. The importance of humidity control

Fungal growth requires certain humidity conditions. According to ISO 14644-1, the humidity of the cleanroom should be controlled between 40%-60%. Beyond this range, especially at higher humidity, the risk of fungal growth will increase significantly.

2. The impact of temperature

Temperature is also an important factor affecting fungal growth. The temperature of the modular cleanroom should be controlled between 18℃-22℃. Too high or too low temperatures may affect the growth environment of fungi. Maintaining a constant temperature helps reduce the possibility of fungal growth. 

3. air flow and filtration

According to iso 14644-1, cleanrooms should be equipped with high-efficiency Air Filters (HEPA or ULPA). These filters can effectively remove fungal spores from the air. Poor air circulation or insufficient filtration is an important cause of fungal growth.

Monitoring and detection of fungi in clean rooms

1. Surface fungal sampling and detection

Regular fungal sampling of clean room surfaces is an effective way to monitor fungal contamination. ISO 14698 requires surface microbial sampling, with a sampling frequency of no less than 1-2 times per square meter to ensure timely detection of potential sources of contamination.

2. Airborne fungal spore monitoring

In clean rooms, the concentration of fungal spores in the air is also a key indicator. Through the air sampling device, sampling is performed every hour in accordance with the requirements of ISO 14698-1 to ensure that the concentration of spores remains within a safe range.

• Sampling frequency: once an hour

• Detection method: air sampling

• Standard: ISO 14698-1 requirements for air quality

3. Culture medium detection

Culture medium detection can be used to evaluate the type and quantity of fungi in the clean room. A culture medium suitable for fungal growth, such as Sabouraud agar, is usually used to accurately identify and control fungi.

• Culture medium: Sabouraud agar

• Detection method: Culture medium method to detect fungal species and quantity

• Objective: Accurately determine the scope and source of fungal contamination

Cleaning and disinfection of clean rooms

1. Regular cleaning and disinfection

Regular cleaning and disinfection of clean rooms is an effective means to prevent fungal growth. Use broad-spectrum antimicrobial disinfectants, such as chlorine-containing disinfectants or hydrogen peroxide, and ensure that surfaces such as walls, ceilings and floors are thoroughly wiped every week when cleaning.

• Disinfectants: Chlorine-containing disinfectants, hydrogen peroxide

• Cleaning frequency: Clean once a week

• Objective: Eliminate surface fungi and prevent their growth

2. Clean dead corners and high-risk areas

During the cleaning process, pay special attention to dead corners and high-risk areas in the modular clean rooms, such as corners and ceiling joints, which are prone to accumulate dust and moisture and are hotbeds for fungal growth. When cleaning, dust-free cloths and special tools should be used to thoroughly clean every corner.

3. Use sterilization equipment

Using ultraviolet (UV) sterilization lamps is a common auxiliary measure in the clean room cleaning process. Ultraviolet rays can effectively destroy the DNA of fungi and reduce the viability of fungal spores. Each clean room should be equipped with appropriate UV sterilization equipment and maintained regularly.

• Ultraviolet lamp: used for disinfection and sterilization

• Maintenance cycle: regular inspection and replacement

• Goal: Reduce the number of fungal spores in the air and on the surface

Optimization of materials and design

1. Select anti-fungal materials

In the design and construction of clean rooms, selecting building materials with anti-fungal properties is an important means of preventing and controlling fungi. For example, choosing wall coatings and floor Materials with anti-mildew and antibacterial properties can effectively reduce the growth and reproduction of fungi. 

• Anti-fungal materials: Anti-fungal coatings, antibacterial flooring

• Material selection criteria: Select building materials that meet international anti-fungal standards

• Goal: Reduce the source of materials for fungal growth

2. Humidity monitoring and regulation of clean rooms

It is necessary to install a humidity monitoring system in the clean room, monitor and adjust the humidity level in real time through humidity sensors to ensure that the humidity is maintained within a safe range. To prevent excessive humidity, use dehumidification equipment such as air conditioners and dehumidifiers to keep the environment dry.

• Humidity monitoring: Install humidity sensors for real-time monitoring

• Equipment selection: Use dehumidifiers and air conditioning equipment

• Goal: Ensure humidity is controlled at 40%-60%

Fungal growth in clean rooms is a common contamination problem, especially under conditions of high ambient humidity or poor air circulation. In order to effectively combat fungal growth, scientific and systematic prevention and control measures must be taken and industry standards must be strictly followed.