The DNAshell minicapsule

Completely anhydrous, anoxic and perfectly airtight, the DNAshell capsules possess the expected decisive advantages when compared to freezing by providing enhanced traceability, stability, safety, and transport and distribution of DNA as well as lower operation and maintenance costs. In addition, the laser-printed Data Matrix codes on the capsules enable easy traceability and inventory of each DNA sample.

Composition

DNAshell is assembled with the following components:

1. A metallic shell(inox)
2. A glass vial
3. A metallic cap(inox)

DNAshell

Laser-marked 2D Data Matrix Code engraved in alphanumeric characters.

A laser seals the minicapsule under a controlled anhydrous and anoxic inert atmosphere by welding the junction between the shell and the cap. This procedure ensures the hermeticity of the capsule. Peripheral welding by the laser Yag generates a negligible temperature rise which does not negatively affect the DNA. A control of each capsule is performed by helium test to detect any possible micro-leakage.

Handling of the capsules

Handling of the capsules and the racks

The capsules are moved by the robot to the stations of the platform. The steps of the process consist in reading the Datamatrix code, capping the capsule, welding the cap, and checking the hermeticity of the welding.

The robot moves the capsules between the different stations. When the process is complete for the capsules of one rack, the robot takes care of the next one.