Jack S Brenizer

US Patent:

61018864, Aug 15, 2000

Filed:

Nov 25, 1998

Appl. No.:

9/199979

Inventors:

Jack S. Brenizer - Charlottesville VA
Charles E. Daitch - Arlington VA
Bouvard Hosticka - Charlottesville VA
L. Roger Mason - Arlington VA
Pamela M. Norris - Charlottesville VA

Assignee:

Pacific Sierra Research - Arlington VA
University of Virginia Patent Foundation - Charlottesville VA

International Classification:

G01N 104
B01D 3900
B01D 5000
B01D 4508

US Classification:

7386323

Abstract:

Atmospheric Samplers are disclosed using aerogel filter material. The samplers include one or more cascaded impact sample stations with discs of aerogel as the targets. Ambient air carrying particulate matter is introduced into the sampler and the particles are captured by the aerogel in its pore structure. In certain embodiments, the aerogel filter is next transported to a position where it is fragmented by a spray of water. The fragmented aerogel and the captured particles are transported in the fragmenting water from the sampler for analysis. In one embodiment, the sampler is segmented with alternate nozzle and filter segments for easy assembly, sampling and disassembly for analysis of the captured particles in aerogel filters positions below the nozzles.