How To Make Still Air Glove Box

A Still-Air-Box or SAB is a clear container that restricts airflow and reduces airborne contaminants such as bacteria and spores. It’s a crucial tool for mycology enthusiasts, particularly when working with agar cultures, grain spawn, and other sensitive projects. While it’s not a foolproof solution, a well-sterilized Still-Air-Box can significantly enhance the success rate of your mycology endeavors.

Understanding the Importance of a Still-Air-Box

The SAB acts as a protective bubble against airborne contaminants. We are surrounded by air filled with bacteria, spores, and other potential threats that can outcompete young mycelium. They move with the air currents and gradually descend to the ground. By creating a still-air environment and sterilizing surfaces, we can establish a safer working space for our mycology projects.

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The armholes can be seen as the Achilles heel of the SAB. Micro air currents from entering and exiting the SAB may introduce contamination. To mitigate this risk, minimize the frequency of entering and exiting the SAB and sterilize regularly.

When Do You Need a Still-Air-Box?

The early stages of mycelium and spore development are highly susceptible to contamination. Therefore, using a Still-Air-Box or flow hood is essential when working with agar, liquid cultures, spore syringes, grain spawn, and other projects involving young, uncolonized mycelium. Generally, once your grain spawn is fully colonized and ready to introduce to a bulk substrate, the mycelium is robust enough to fend off infections. As a personal rule, if a project fits inside the SAB, then work there.

Building Your Still-Air-Box: A Step-by-Step Guide

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Creating a Still-Air-Box is a relatively straightforward and budget-friendly DIY project. With the right tools, you can have a fully functional SAB in about 10 minutes. In this walk-through, we’re focusing on converting a clear plastic tote into a SAB using a hole saw kit, a tool that is also helpful for other mycology projects like modified mono-tubs.

Tools & Supplies

1. Drill
2. Sharp Knife/Razor Blade
3. Hole Saw Kit (This is what I use)
4. Large Clear Tote (70+ quarts recommended)

Safety Tips

Always prioritize safety when working with tools. Wear eye protection, be aware of your hand positions, and avoid inhaling any toxic fumes from melting plastic.

Instructions

How to Use a Still Air Box (SAB)

1. Preparation: Begin by cleaning the surface where you’ll be placing the SAB. This reduces the risk of contaminants in the surrounding environment.
2. Disinfect the SAB: Before each use, thoroughly clean and disinfect the inside of the SAB. You can use a 10% bleach solution or 70% isopropyl alcohol. Ensure the SAB is dry before placing any materials inside.
3. Gather Your Materials: Assemble all the items you’ll need for your work, such as petri dishes, spore syringes, or grain jars. Having everything ready ensures you won’t need to leave the SAB during the process, reducing exposure to contaminants.
4. Glove Up: Wear gloves, and make sure to disinfect them with isopropyl alcohol. This ensures that any contaminants from your hands don’t transfer to the materials inside the SAB.
5. Work Slowly: Place your arms through the armholes and begin your work. Move deliberately and slowly to minimize air movement, which can stir up potential contaminants.
6. Limit Time Inside the SAB: Try to complete your tasks efficiently. The longer the SAB is open or in use, the higher the risk of contamination.
7. Finalize and Seal: Once you’re done, seal any containers, petri dishes, or jars you’ve worked with immediately. This prevents contaminants from settling on them once they’re outside the SAB.
8. Clean Up: After every session, remove all tools and waste. Wipe down the inside of the SAB with a disinfectant to prepare it for the next use.
9. Store Properly: When not in use, keep the SAB in a clean and dry location. This ensures its longevity and maintains its cleanliness for future uses.

Remember, the goal of the SAB is to create a contaminant-free environment. Regular cleaning, careful handling, and efficient working are key to successful mushroom cultivation when using a Still Air Box.

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Source: https://t-tees.com
Category: HOW