AAAR 37th Annual Conference October 14 - October 18, 2019 Oregon Convention Center Portland, Oregon, USA
Abstract View
Successful Collection of Viable Vegetative E. coli on Dry Electret Filters
Andrew Page, Zachary Packingham, Michael Hornback, Stephanie Cantrell, DAVID ALBURTY, InnovaPrep LLC
Abstract Number: 363 Working Group: Bioaerosols
Abstract Dissolvable gelatin filters and dry electret filters are widely used for collection of bioaerosols, including both bacterial endospores and viable cells. In this study sponsored by NASA, the collection and elution of vegetative E. coli on gelatin filters was compared to collection on dry electret filters, for consideration in developing an air sampler for use aboard the International Space Station and potentially other spacecraft. Bioaerosol studies were performed in a 2.8 cubic meter test chamber section within a recirculating loop windtunnel. Surprisingly, viable collection rates were determined to be higher on the dry electret filters (up to 45%) than on the osmoprotective gelatin filters at equivalent face velocities (11%). Data are presented showing efficiencies and concentration factors using varied sampling rates, filter elution volumes, and collection times. Sample concentration using electret filters was higher than on gelatin filters, with higher viability and smaller final sample volumes.