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Novel Electrostatics-based Sampler for Bioaerosol Collection in Small Analysis Volumes

Award Information
Agency: Department of Homeland Security
Branch: N/A
Contract: NBCH060091
Agency Tracking Number: 611201
Amount: $99,918.00
Phase: Phase I
Program: SBIR
Solicitation Topic Code: H-SB06.1-001
Solicitation Number: N/A
Timeline
Solicitation Year: N/A
Award Year: 2006
Award Start Date (Proposal Award Date): N/A
Award End Date (Contract End Date): N/A
Small Business Information
215 Wynn Dr.
Huntsville, AL 35805
United States
DUNS: N/A
HUBZone Owned: No
Woman Owned: No
Socially and Economically Disadvantaged: No
Principal Investigator
 Kapil Pant
 Group Leader
 (256) 726-4800
 jls@cfdrc.com
Business Contact
 Sharen Barrett
Title: Document Specialist
Phone: (256) 726-4988
Email: jls@cfdrc.com
Research Institution
N/A
Abstract

Current bioaerosol monitoring and evaluation systems are largely based on collection of airborne pathogens in a liquid medium, followed by the detection of the targets of interest. While available aerosol collection technologies employ large collection volumes, biosensors are capable of processing only a small fraction of the collection volume. Our overall objective is to design and demonstrate a novel electrostatics-based sampler that is capable of directly capturing the incoming stream of aerosol particles in very small collection volumes. This reduced collection volume provides multiple benefits including greater assay sensitivity, reduced probabilities of false negatives and reduction in overall logistical burden. Building on CFDRC¿s proven electrostatic collection technology, we will demonstrate aerosol collection in a small volume of collection buffer. Our main challenge is to increase throughput to 100 L/min while maintaining high efficiencies and minimizing losses. During Phase I, collection, concentration and capture efficiencies factors will be clearly demonstrated, using a judicious combination of computer-aided design/analysis and experimental testing with BSL-1 organisms. Phase II will focus on prototype integration and testing with an extensive set of class-based simulants and agents. An inter-disciplinary team has been assembled to ensure project success.

* Information listed above is at the time of submission. *

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