Aerosol sampler

The overall objective of this project was to design a device to collect multiple aerosol samples at various altitudes of the atmosphere. This device would aid in the biological investigation of unexplained microorganisms' travel over vast distances across the world. Extensive work was done in collaboration with the Arkansas State University Biology Department to develop criteria the device needed to meet. The device needed to sample air from sea level up to the outer levels of the Earth's atmosphere. It was determined that the only feasible way to travel to such a distance would be by attaching the device as a payload to the helium weather balloon. Next, various intake and sampling methods were explored. The aim was to collect at least 5 samples varying uniformly in altitude. Beginning at approximately 50,000 feet, a sample would be collected every 10,000 feet until maximum altitude was reached. A centrifugal pump was chosen for intake method. The Allergenco D Impactor, a type of adhesive slide particle capturing container, was chosen for sampling. To prevent contamination, solenoid valves to be used on each side of the impactor to ensure sealing, once the sample was taken. Independent design and testing of all the electrical components for functionality and sensitivity was carried out using a microcontroller to ensure control of valves for sampling at desired altitudes as well as monitoring various parameters. With the use of a vacuum chamber, the sampling system was tested for the required flow rates.