Processing protocol for soil samples potentially contaminated with Bacillus anthracis spores [HS7.52.02 - 514]

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Abstract

This protocol describes the processing steps for 45 g and 9 g soil samples potentially contaminated with Bacillus anthracis spores. The protocol is designed to separate and concentrate the spores from bulk soil down to a pellet that can be used for further analysis. Soil extraction solution and mechanical shaking are used to disrupt soil particle aggregates and to aid in the separation of spores from soil particles. Soil samples are washed twice with soil extraction solution to maximize recovery. Differential centrifugation is used to separate spores from the majority of the soil material. The 45 g protocol has been demonstrated by two laboratories using both loamy and sandy soil types. There were no significant differences overall between the two laboratories for either soil type, suggesting that the processing protocol would be robust enough to use at multiple laboratories while achieving comparable recoveries. The 45 g protocol has demonstrated a matrix limit of detection at 14 spores/gram of soil for loamy and sandy soils.

Publication type Report
Publication Subtype Other Government Series
Title Processing protocol for soil samples potentially contaminated with Bacillus anthracis spores [HS7.52.02 - 514]
Year Published 2017
Language English
Publisher United States Environmental Protection Agency
Publisher location Cincinnati, OH
Contributing office(s) St. Petersburg Coastal and Marine Science Center
Description vi, 18 p.
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