BioSampler ® Operating Instructions SKC Inc.
Description The patented* SKC BioSampler is a highly efficient bioaerosol and biologically inert airborne particle collection device that traps airborne microorganisms into swirling liquid for subsequent analysis. The BioSampler is made of glass and consists of three parts: inlet, nozzle section (with three tangential sonic nozzles), and collection vessel (Figure 1). The collection vessel can be filled with a liquid collection medium or coated with a sticky medium.
Operation Calibration The BioSampler’s tangential nozzles act as sonic orifices. Therefore, if the pump maintains a pressure drop of 0.5 atm (15 in Hg) or more across the sampler at normal atmospheric conditions, the flow rate will always be the same (about 12.5 L/min) unless one or more of the nozzles become clogged. Figure 2 shows the recommended calibration set up. Calibration is particularly important when sampling in areas with non-standard temperature and pressure. 1.
Sampling with Collection Liquid The BioSampler can be used for both short-term and long-term sampling depending on the collection liquid chosen. Operating Cautions: •Visually inspect BioSampler operation frequently, particularly when using a viscous collection liquid. •Use only 15 ml of viscous liquid in a 20-ml vessel and 4 ml inside a 5-ml vessel. •Use a liquid trap in line to ensure that collection liquid (particularly viscous liquid) in a BioSampler vessel does not enter the pump.
o Caution: When operating correctly, the collection liquid in the BioSampler should be swirling gently up the inner wall of the sampler, wetting it where the nozzles output onto the inner wall. It is important to visually monitor the following: a. That there is enough collection liquid in the vessel to wet the inner wall at the location where the nozzles output onto the inner wall. If this is not occurring, add more collection liquid. b.
9. Accurately measure the final volume of collection liquid in an aseptic area and aseptically transfer it to a sterilized container for analyses. Note: If using a water-based liquid, do not sample at temperatures below 41 F (5 C) to avoid crystallization of the collection liquid. Note: If sampling biologically inert particles, aseptic procedures are not necessary.
Transporting Samples 1. All individual sample containers should be sealed to prevent contamination during transport and properly labeled with the sample identification. 2. Because many tests have very short hold times, samples should be delivered to the laboratory as soon as possible after collection, preferably within 24 hours. 3. Provide with the samples, sample identification, all pertinent sample information (e.g., sampling rate, time, and location), and analysis request.
• Immunoassay Immunoassay is used for the quantification of airborne allergens (e.g., dust mites and animal dander). It relies on the binding of antibodies to a specific target antigen. Other methods include fluorescence, enzyme, and radioimmunoassay. • Polymerase Chain Reaction Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) is used to screen samples for a specific genus or species. The PCR process is based on in-vitro replication of selected nucleic acid sequences.
BioSampler Kits and Accessories Description Cat. No.
