Carbon Nanotube-Based Filters for Aerosol Sample Collection

Aerosols represent one of the more efficient methods to distribute biological and chemical agents throughout the atmosphere. Small aerosol droplets can be readily inhaled and easily penetrate deep into the lungs where they lodge in bronchial alveoli. Within the alveoli, chemical and biological agents can breach epithelial and endothelial cell layers and enter the bloodstream, where they cause damage and disease. Rapid collection and analysis of aerosols containing potential biological and chemical threat agents will be essential in determining the nature of the threat agents as well as planning measures to combat and neutralize these threats. In this Phase I program, Agave BioSystems, in collaboration with Dr. Randy Vander Wal of the University Space Research Association, proposes to develop a novel aerosol collection system based on carbon nanotubes (CNTs) synthesized directly on stainless steel (SS) mesh. The high surface area, structural robustness and inert nature of CNTs grown on SS mesh make them ideal for use in such an aerosol collection system.