CONTINUOUS SONICATION FOR BIOTECHNOLOGY APPLICATIONS AND BIOFUEL PRODUCTION

摘要

A system and method for sonication of multiple samples and continuous sonication of an input fluid stream in flow-through arrangements useful for economical breakdown of particulates and organisms present in large volumes with relatively low-power sonication devices such as production of oil from algae. The system includes an electrical wave generator oscillating in the ultrasound range, a vibrating element electrically connected to the electrical wave generator, and a sonication plate that vibrates in certain modes. The sonication plate contains features for mating with sample tubes, and the sample tubes also possess complimentary mating features to those on the sonication plate. A method for sonication of multiple samples includes utilizing mating features to attach tubes to the sonication plate and energizing the sonicator to vibrate the sonication plate. The invention also relates to arrangements for continuous flow-through useful for sonicating large sample volumes.

主权项

1. A sonication device comprising:
a sonication plate receiving and holding a sample container; said sonication plate including a first energy coupling structure; said sample container containing a second energy coupling structure complementary to said first energy coupling structure such that when the sample container is mated to the sampling plate, substantially maximal energy transfer occurs from said sonication plate into said sample container.