Gelatin filters reliably retain bacteria and viruses and are routinely used to
collect airborne microorganisms for quantitative analysis. The gelatin's inherent
high-moisture content helps to maintain viability of stress-sensitive microorganisms
for sampling periods up to 1 hour. Gelatin filters dissolve easily when placed
on agar, allowing a gentle transition from sample medium to growth medium.
Filter sampling for bioaerosols is easy, efficient, and can provide information
about relative changes in bioaerosol concentration throughout the day. However,
filter sampling of less hardy microorganisms can reduce culturability due to
desiccation. The use of gelatin filters can help to maintain viability. For
maximum culturability and superior collection of inhalable-size bioaerosols,
combine gelatin filters with the SKC Button Sampler. See below.
| Material |
Water-soluble gelatin |
| Pore Size |
While having a nominal pore size of 3.0 µm, a higher capture
efficiency of sub-micron particles can be expected due to the separations
that occur on the surface and within the filter. It is through inertial
impaction and diffusional interception that these filters can remove particles
much smaller that 3.0 µm. |
| Diameter |
25 mm or 37 mm |
| Thickness |
Approximately 250 µm |
| Sterilization |
Presterilized by gamma radiation. Filters individually wrapped
and packaged in units of five each in a polyethylene bag. |
| Thermal Resistance |
Maximum 140 F (60 C) |
| Residual Dampness Content |
46 to 49% |
| Conditions for Use |
Maximum room temperature is 86 F (30C); relative humidity
is 85% |
| Sampling Time |
Up to 1 hour at typical indoor relative humidity |
| Sampling Flow Rate |
1 to 4 L/min for filter sampling of biological
contaminants using a standard filter cassette, Button Sampler, or the
IOM
|
| Storage |
Gelatin filters may be stored in low humidity, ambient conditions;
storage between 39.2 and 46.4 F (4 and 8 C) is recommended.
Caution: Do not store gelatin filters below 39.2 F (4
C). Condensation during thawing will dissolve filter. Avoid exposing filters
to moisture,
chemical vapors, and extreme temperatures. |
| Shelf-life |
3 years from date of manufacture |
| Analysis |
Direct method or indirect method. Gelatin filters dissolve
when placed on agar plates. |
Diameter
(mm) |
Support Pad Included |
Notes |
Qty. |
Cat. No. |
| 25 |
No |
Water-soluble gelatin, presterilized, individually wrapped, packaged
in units of five each in a polyethylene bag
Recommended for use with the Button Sampler and IOM
Limited shelf-life; refrigerated storage from 39.2 to 46.4 F (4 to
8 C) recommended |
50 |
|
| 37 |
No |
Water-soluble gelatin, presterilized, individually wrapped, packaged
in units of five each in a polyethylene bag
Recommended for use with the Button Sampler and IOM
Limited shelf-life; refrigerated storage from 39.2 to 46.4
F (4 to 8 C) recommended |
50 |
|
About Using Gelatin Filters with the Button
Sampler
|
For maximum microorganism survivability and superior collection of inhalable-size
bioaerosols, use sterile gelatin filters with the SKC Button Sampler.
The Button Sampler features a unique inlet that contains evenly spaced
holes that act as sampling orifices for multi-directional sampling. The
proximity of the filter to the inlet minimizes transmission losses and
provides equal distribution of particle loading and low intersample variation.
Combining the Button Sampler with the nurturing properties of gelatin
filters creates a sampler that is most efficient at collecting inhalable
bioaerosols for
viable or non-viable analysis. Click
here to go to the Button Sampler Page. |
 |
A typical filter will have a rough side and a shiny side. The shiny side is easier
to read under a microscope, therefore, expose the shiny side to the air for microscopic
analysis. The rough side holds dust more effectively; expose the rough side for
gravimetric analysis.
Gelatin filters feature high moisture content, however, they are very brittle
and break easily. Handle with care.
