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Sampling Methods: Sample Types

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Composition and Distribution Analysis of Bioaerosols Under Different Environmental Conditions

Composition and Distribution Analysis of Bioaerosols Under Different Environmental Conditions

Published on: January 7, 2019

A method for sampling microbial aerosols using high altitude balloons.

N C Bryan¹, M Stewart, D Granger

¹Department of Biological Sciences, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA.

Journal of Microbiological Methods

|December 3, 2014

Summary

We developed a new balloon-tethered system for passive microbial aerosol sampling at high altitudes. This technology enables the study of airborne microbial life in the troposphere and stratosphere.

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Composition and Distribution Analysis of Bioaerosols Under Different Environmental Conditions

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Published on: January 7, 2019

Collection and Extraction of Occupational Air Samples for Analysis of Fungal DNA

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Published on: May 2, 2018

VacuSIP, an Improved InEx Method for In Situ Measurement of Particulate and Dissolved Compounds Processed by Active Suspension Feeders

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Published on: August 3, 2016

Area of Science:

Atmospheric Science
Microbiology
Aerosol Science

Background:

Microbial aerosols in the Earth's atmosphere are poorly understood due to sampling challenges at high altitudes.
Existing methods struggle to effectively collect viable microorganisms from diverse atmospheric layers.

Purpose of the Study:

To design, construct, and validate a novel system for passive microbial aerosol sampling during atmospheric ascent.
To address the knowledge gap regarding the abundance, diversity, and distribution of microbial taxa in the troposphere and stratosphere.

Main Methods:

A lightweight (~2.7 kg) payload system utilizing a helium-filled balloon for atmospheric ascent.
Passive aerosol sampling via Rotorod® collectors within sealed chambers, opened at specific altitudes.
Real-time GPS tracking and safe payload recovery using a parachute and cut mechanism.

Main Results:

The system successfully samples aerosols using the Rotorod® method, collecting 0.035 m3 per km of altitude per rod.
Quality control indicates a detection limit of approximately 100 cells rod(-1) with a 3-sigma confidence level.
The payload is adaptable to various balloon platforms for versatile atmospheric research.

Conclusions:

The developed system provides a reliable tool for characterizing the vertical distribution of microorganisms in the atmosphere.
This technology facilitates direct investigation into the composition and extent of the atmospheric microbiome.
Enables crucial data collection for understanding microbial life in the upper troposphere and stratosphere.