Theory and Rationale Behind Bio-Trap Samplers

Bio-Trap® samplers are in essence a passive sampling tool that collects microbes over time for the purpose of better understanding biodegradation potenital.

Theory behind Bio-Trap Samplers:

• Compensate for inherent variability associated with collecting groundwater samples

• Based on the concept of passive diffusion samplers

• Developed by Microbial Insights, Inc., University of Tennessee's Center for Biomarker Analysis, and University of Tulsa's Center for Applied Geosciences

• Patent Pending Technology

The Sampling Matrix: Bio-Sep Beads

The key to the Bio-Trap® sampling approach is contained in the unique properties of the Bio-Sep® beads which are used as the sampling matrix. The beads are 2-3 mm in diameter and are engineered from a composite of Nomex and powdered activated carbon (PAC). The adsorption capacity of the PAC allows nutrients and contaminants present within the aquifer to be collected onto the bead matrix. In subsurface environments most microbes prefer to be attached rather than free floating, and the unique properties of Bio-Sep® beads provide a large surface area (~600 m2/g) for attachment which mimics the environment where samples are collected.

Properties of Bio-Sep Beads

• 3-4 mm in diameter
• 25 % Nomex, 75% PAC
• 74% porosity
• 600 m2 of surface area/g
• Surrounded by ultrafiltration-like membrane
• Autoclavable
• Cleaned of fossil biomarkers