Collapsible container for measuring particles in a sample fluid

摘要

A device and method for the detection of small particles in a fluid. The device is a collapsible sample container having a opening which is covered, at least in part, by a porous membrane having a plurality (e.g., 100) of pores therein having a pore diameter equal to or smaller than the diameter of the particles to be detected (e.g., 01. to 100 microns). A means for collapsing the container to extrude the liquid sample through the membrane pores is provided along with a means for detecting pressure during the extrusion. The size and number of particles in the liquid is calculated by relating the extrusion pressure required to a pre-calibrated standard. When a constant pressure is applied the rate at which fluid is extruded decreases as the pores of the membrane become clogged with particles. The greater number of particles in the sample tested the greater the number of pores which will become clogged with particles which causes an increase in the amount of time or pressure needed to extrude a given volume of the sample through the porous membrane. The number of pores per unit area and pore size can be varied depending on the probable size and concentration of the particles in the liquid be tested.