High-Performance Bioaerosol Collector

The performance of Zaromb Research Corp.'s proprietary portable high-throughput liquid-absorption air sampler (PHTLAAS] will be upgraded so as to yield a collection efficiency of at least 30% for micron-size microorganisms at a sampling rate of at least 350 1/min of air and a power consumption of under 40 watts. The collection efficiency of the improved PHTLAAS will be measured in a wind tunnel using harmless surrogate micron-size bacilli as test organisms. The improvements that will be effectuated in the design, construction, and operation of the sampler will provide the basis for Phase II research and development of an even smaller and lighter crash-resistant sampler that will be capable of satisfactory operation in an unmanned aerial vehicle under variable flight conditions. The improved performance of the sampler will: (a) provide the military with effective means for timely detection of biological hazards; and (b) extend the range potential applications and markets for th eimproved devices.