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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Start by identifying the desired center point for each armhole. For the most comfortable use, place the armholes at approximately shoulder width apart. After marking the center points, ensure both armholes are symmetrically aligned to guarantee a balanced design.
Position the drill bit over the marked center from Step 1.
As you stabilize the tote with one hand, be cautious to keep it away from the drill's trajectory. The pliability of the plastic makes it susceptible to unexpected movements during drilling.
Begin drilling slowly until the drill bit punches through the center mark and the teeth of the saw touch the plastic.
With the hole saw making contact with the tote, initiate slow drilling. It's vital to maintain a gentle pace to prevent the plastic from cracking which could ruin the project.
Continue the process, applying a steady pressure, until you've cleanly cut through the tote.
To prevent any injury, refrain from extracting the plastic circle from the hole saw manually while it remains on the drill. Opt for either detaching the entire hole saw bit or using needlenose pliers while running the drill in reverse to safely remove the debris.
Follow the same procedure for the second hole. However, be aware that the tote might now exhibit increased flexibility due to the first hole.
For optimal safety and aesthetics, utilize a deburring tool or sandpaper to smooth out any sharp or uneven edges around the holes. Ensure that there are no fragments or particles left inside the tote.
Your Still Air Box is now ready. To ensure it's devoid of contaminants, consider wiping it down with a 10% bleach solution or isopropyl alcohol. Store it in a clean, dry place to ensure its longevity and efficiency in mushroom cultivation.
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.
Ensure clear visibility while working inside your still-air-box with this adjustable desk lamp. Its focused light makes intricate tasks in mycology a breeze.
Browse Desk Lamps
A comprehensive 37-piece Dissection Kit that's a must-have for any mycologist. Its stainless steel instruments serve multiple uses, from specimen preparation to intricate studies.
Working in a sterile environment? The Stainless Steel Wire Rack ensures your project remains elevated in a still air box or flowhood, minimizing exposure to falling airborne debris.
I regularly use and recommend these Stainless Steel Surgical Trays for my mycology work. Their versatility provides a clean and organized surface for an array of tasks.
UVC light can assist in disinfecting your projects, enhancing the likelihood of successful outcomes. UVC light in the 200-280NM wavelength is effective in eliminating bacteria and viruses.
Exercise extreme caution when utilizing UVC light. Ensure that you never expose your eyes or skin to the light; UVC light is recognized as a carcinogen. My preferred device has a timer feature, allowing me to vacate the room before it begins its operation.
To be perfectly honest, I'm uncertain about the efficacy of the portable UVC lamp I acquired. However, I lean towards erring on the side of caution when engaging in mycology, so anything can help. Here's a comprehensive video titled "How to know if a UVC device will be safe and effective."
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