Kromek unveils bioaerosol evaluation chamber
Image courtesy Kromek
The new lab has been purpose-built, as part of a programme with the US Department of Homeland Security, to safely release controlled amounts of bioaerosols, which are tiny airborne particles that contain biological material such as bacteria or viruses. This allows Kromek to closely replicate real-world conditions in a secure and controlled setting, helping them to effectively test and improve their air sampling and pathogen detection systems.
At the heart of Kromek’s innovation is an advanced air sampling system that works in tandem with a real-time bio sequencer. This integrated technology can detect and identify harmful biological agents in the air, such as viruses, as they emerge. In real life scenarios, the system provides an early warning to health authorities and emergency services, helping to prevent the spread of any diseases which could threaten society.
This milestone builds on Kromek’s significant progress in the biosecurity sector, including a $6 million contract awarded by the US Defence Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) in 2020 and a further $6 million programme with US Department of Homeland Security, to further develop its biological threat detection system. The contract enabled Kromek to advance its real-time pathogen detection technologies and strengthen its capabilities in airborne bio-threat monitoring.
The new facility is expected to support ongoing collaborations with academic institutions, government bodies, and international partners working at the forefront of biodefence and environmental monitoring.
Above: Dr Arnab Basu tests the volume sampling pump inside the bioaerosol chamber.
Courtesy Kromek
Dr Arnab Basu (above, left), CEO of Kromek Group, said: “This new chamber significantly improves our ability to validate and refine our air sampling and pathogen detections systems. By replicating real-world conditions in a controlled environment, we can ensure our system performs effectively when deployed in the field. In an era of increasing biological threats, this investment underlines our commitment to delivering reliable tools to safeguard public health and national security.”
“This year is shaping up to be a landmark year for all of us at Kromek. The completion of our new bioaerosol evaluation chamber marks another major milestone in our mission to be at the forefront of safeguarding lives through advanced detection technologies. Earlier this year, we also announced a strategic partnership with Siemens Healthineers to support the development of next-generation medical imaging solutions and is proving to be a collaboration that has significantly expanded both our technological capabilities and our global network.”
