Journal of Undergraduate Research
Keywords
electrospray ionization, ESI, bacteria, picoammeter
College
Physical and Mathematical Sciences
Department
Chemistry and Biochemistry
Abstract
In this project we wanted to see if bacteria can survive a process called electrospray ionization (ESI). While bacteria survival of ESI has not previously been demonstrated, viruses survivability has1. The process of ESI consists of spraying a solution of the desired analyte in a strong electric field. Solution flowing through a capillary forms a Taylor cone at the end from which charged droplets emit. As solvent evaporates, the droplets break apart. As solvent continues to evaporate, that process is repeated and eventually forms individually charged particles once all the solvent is evaporated. The ESI in this experiment is done with a positive bias.
Recommended Citation
Pratt, Sara and Austin, Dr. Daniel
(2014)
"Electrospray of Bacteria Intact and Viable,"
Journal of Undergraduate Research: Vol. 2014:
Iss.
1, Article 1084.
Available at:
https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/jur/vol2014/iss1/1084