Method and Apparatus for Processing and Analyzing filtered Particles

摘要

A filter arrangement with a top element and a bottom element and a filter element therebetween captures oversized particles on the upper surface of the filter element and tangentially rinses these particles using an elution fluid to provide a concentration of particles in a relatively low volume of fluid for further analysis. A configuration using a slider valve may also be utilized. Additionally, an arrangement of supply and receiving containers may be used to minimize the number of containers required. A mass flow meter may be incorporated to measure the flow of elution fluid. Finally, a wash stage of the filtering process may be used to introduce stain onto the particles for further analysis, such as that associated with Gram staining and these stained particles may be further analyzed.

主权项

1. A system for filtering particles using a tangential filter comprising:
a) at least one elution fluid supply source; b) a particle inlet for introducing particles to be filtered; c) a tangential filter having a first surface and a second surface; d) a valving arrangement wherein each of the particle inlet and the elution fluid supply source is at separate times in fluid communication with the first surface of the filter; e) a waste fluid container; f) a vacuum pump in fluid communication with the second surface of the filter and with the waste fluid container such that any fluid or particles introduced at the first surface of the filter that pass through the filter may be deposited within the waste fluid container; and g) a collector for collecting particles wiped from the first surface of the filter.