Wisconsin Department of Justice Crime Laboratory Bureau & Forensic Swab Adhesive Change

Wisconsin Department of Justice Crime Laboratory Bureau & Forensic Swab Adhesive Change

When the Wisconsin Department of Justice Crime Laboratory Bureau (WCLB) contacted Puritan to inform us that they were having difficulty extracting DNA collected from crime scenes using two batches of our cotton tipped applicators, we quickly went to work to identify and remedy the issue. After extensive testing, with consideration of WCLB’s unique process in which samples are heated to 158˚F, we determined that the cold adhesive used in our manufacturing process could not stand up to the heat produced during their testing procedure and was reconstituting into their DNA solution, thereby preventing accurate sampling.

While this problem was noted in only two batches of product, we've revised the manufacturing process for all of our DNA-free forensic swabs to utilize our proprietary hot adhesive only. This case study speaks to Puritan's willingness and ability to adapt our products to the continually evolving specifications of our diverse customer base. As we strive for excellence in manufacturing, research, and development, responding to the unique needs of our clients is what sets Puritan apart. To read the full write-up on this customer case study, check out our blog post, here.