Journal of Applied Physiology, Vol 56, Issue 5 1436-1438, Copyright © 1984 by American Physiological Society
Automatic mechanical alveolar gas sampler for multiple-sample collection in field
K. H. Maret, J. O. Billups, R. M. Peters Jr and J. B. West
A mechanical alveolar gas sampler using the revolver principle capable of
collecting six individual expired gas samples is described. The 0.91-kg
sampler collects 19-ml samples in pre-evacuated aluminum ampoules equipped
with spring-loaded valves from a sampling chamber equipped with two
removable one-way valves. On depression of external handles, one of six
ampoules located in a removable cartridge is aligned and advanced into the
sampling chamber where its valve is opened and then closed. Releasing the
handles removes the ampoule from the sampling chamber and automatically
rotates the cartridge through 60 degrees to position a new ampoule in
preparation for the next sampling sequence. A lock-out mechanism prevents
reexposure of any of the ampoules after six samples have been taken. The
performance of the sampler is described including its successful use in the
field to collect alveolar gas samples on the summit of Mount Everest.
