AnemoSwab, an innovation designed by Yonatan Morocz, a McGill University researcher is a tiny, low cost device that captures particles from exhaled breath to rest for respiratory infections. The fingertip-sized device uses a 3D-printed microfluidic structure to capture aerosol particles as the user breathes out. By directing airflow through a series of narrow channels and sharp turns, it uses the particles’ momentum to collect them on a surface. A small amount of liquid then extracts the sample for analysis using established testing methods such as PCR.
The device addresses the unpleasant and discouraging experience of getting a nasal swab test that deters people from getting tested, in addition nasal samples do not necessarily reflect the infectious particles a person releases into the air. The design requires no external pump, electricity or bulky equipment. According Morocz it takes approximately two minutes to collect a sample and costs around US$0.09 to print, offering a route towards more accessible respiratory testing.
