A New Core Sampler for Cryogenic Collection of Subsurface Samples for Molecular Tools Analysis

摘要

Molecular biological tools (MBTs) are an increasingly important approach for evaluating subsurface bioremediation performance. Currently, most MBT analyses are performed on water samples collected from wells. While water samples can, for example, be used to identify the presence of particular organisms in the subsurface, it is generally accepted that most organisms are associated with aquifer solids and that community structures on those solids are likely to be different than the in an associated water sample. However, collection of high-quality subsurface solids for MBT analysis is difficult because of possible contamination, incomplete solids recovery and redistribution of fluids during sample collection. To overcome these difficulties, we have developed a core sampler that freezes samples in situ and allows them to remain frozen during transport to the laboratory.