Reel-to-reel bioforensic aerosol collection and storage system

Abstract

A reel-to-reel aerosol collection and storage system for capturing and storing a plurality of separate samples of aerosol particles using electrostatic precipitation technology for collecting such particles onto a tape mechanism for analysis at a future time. The particles are collected onto a region of the collection tape for a defined period of time and then that portion of the collection tape is advanced out of the collection zone and manipulated so as to form sealed pouches or pockets which can be either severed from the collection tape for individual storage in a temperature controlled storage container, or which can be stored on a take-up reel in a temperature controlled environment. The collected aerosol particles are stored with a buffer fluid to preserve and maintain the viability of the collected particles for future extraction and analysis. Several embodiments for forming sealed pouches or pockets and methods of storing the collected particles are disclosed.