Our combination wind tunnel, integrated with a 2,700-liter aerosol test chamber (ATC), is specifically designed for rigorous Testing and Evaluation (T&E) of small to mid-sized aerosol and bioaerosol sampling equipment. Our experienced scientists and engineers have successfully tested inlet systems and samplers operating at flow rates ranging from 1 LPM to 450 LPM under wind conditions varying from ambient to 70 mph.
Aerosol studies conducted in our facility provide critical insights into the performance of aerosol samplers, enabling developers to refine and optimize their designs by identifying particle loss points and improving transmission efficiency. We actively collaborate with developers to enhance system performance through iterative testing and data analysis.
Beyond validating aerosol collectors, our capabilities extend to the evaluation of detection and identification systems, ensuring that collectors are effectively integrated with the appropriate components. Out wind tunnel's versatility allows us to test aerosol inlets in both high-wind environments and on mobile platforms, including UAVs, providing comprehensive validation across diverse operational scenarios.
Aerosol Operating Parameters
The aerosol wind tunnel is configurable for both high and low wind speed testing. High-speed testing is utilized for T&E during the prototyping and design validation stages, particularly for samplers intended for deployment on mobile platforms or unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). For instance, this configuration was used to independently test a novel aerosol collector for the Navy's ScanEagle, focusing on size-selective particle segregation and collection efficiency. Low-speed testing, on the other hand, is employed to simulate conditions for simultaneous sampling at multiple sites, particularly for plume detection and monitoring applications.
Wind Tunnel Configuration
The wind tunnel's motor, fan, and controls offer extensive configurability to meet diverse testing needs:
- Reversible Airflow: Airflow direction can be reversed as required.
- Speed Capabilities: Airflow speeds up to 90 MPH are achievable, with sustained speeds up to 70 MPH.
- Still Air Chamber Configuration: The chamber can be converted into a still-air test environment by sealing the ends with high-efficiency air filters. This allows for rapid purging and filtration, utilizing the entire 27,000L volume for still-air aerosol testing.
- Remote Operation: Aerosol mixing fans and equipment within the test section can be operated remotely for precise control during experiments.
Sampling and Sample Prep and Controls
InnovaPrep offers the capability to aerosolize a wide range of particle sizes and types, either simultaneously or individually, depending on the specific requirements of your testing. We also have the expertise to disseminate viable biological simulants that mimic threat agents, providing realistic scenarios for rigorous testing.
Particle Types and Testing Methodology
Aerosol particles are generated using a variety of instruments and methods tailored to the needs of each test. Our facility supports bio-aerosol testing with BSL-1 organisms, spores, surrogate organisms, fluorescent tracer particles, calibrated microspheres, background dust, and outdoor air backgrounds. We frequently use Arizona Road Dust and other interferents to assess the performance of detection systems. If you have specific particles you need to test, we can accommodate your requirements.
Types of Particles Available:
Bio-aerosol testing can be done with: BSL-1 organisms and spores, surrogate organisms, fluorescent tracer particles, calibrated microspheres, background dust, and with an outdoor air background. Arizona Road Dust and other interferents are commonly used to evaluate detection system performance. If you have a particle of interest to test, just ask.
Note: We do not aerosolize BSL-2 materials or chemical hazard materials, or work with hazardous gases. We can disseminate particles ranging in size from 10 nm and larger, with precise measurement capabilities for particle sizes between 0.3 and 20 microns.
Particle Dissemination:
- Monodisperse Particles: Monodisperse fluorescent particles are generated using a TSI 3450 Vibrating Orifice Aerosol Generator (VOAG) equipped with a charge neutralizer, ensuring uniform particle size and charge distribution.
- Polydisperse Particles: Polydisperse particles are typically disseminated in a dry state directly into the test chamber or by nebulizing or spraying solutions or suspensions. We employ various aerosol generation methods, including dry particle dissemination using instruments like the Pitt-120V, TSI SSPD, Tapper, and Air Eraser, as well as nebulizers and sprayers for liquid-based dispersions.
- InnovaPrep’s Pitt-120V instrument excels in the dry dissemination of challenging particles, such as fibers and powders. This advanced generator uses a combination of acoustic waves and gas flow, paired with a vertical elutriator, to produce a consistently defined and repeatable aerosol dissemination, making it ideal for complex testing scenarios.
Particle Measuring:
Aerosol concentrations are precisely monitored using aerodynamic particle sizers, such as the TSI 3321, ensuring accurate size distribution and concentration data. Referee samplers are employed as gold standards in aerosol collection, providing reliable benchmarks for evaluating the performance of other sampling systems.
Controls and Reference Samplers
Reference Instrumentation – Several samplers are available as needed. Work with us to establish a test plan!
Selected referee samplers are used to collect duplicate samples for confirmation of aerosol concentrations and appropriate size distribution. Isokinetic sampling using special probes is used to confirm aerosols at different wind speeds.
Available Referee samplers include: Reference filters, impactors, SKC Biosamplers, AGI-30 impingers, Andersen 6-stage viable samplers and slit-to-agar samplers. Aerodynamic particle size is determined using a TSI-3321
