> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://help.sbtinstruments.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://help.sbtinstruments.com/advanced/advanced-sample-preparation/remove-large-particles.md).

# Remove large particles

## How to get rid of large particles

Filter your sample through a [10 µm cell sieve](/item-register/consumables/cell-sieve-10-m.md). This adds an extra step to your sample preparation protocol but it's a very effective and relatively low-cost method.

{% hint style="success" %}

### Break up clumps and chains first

Break up bacteria aggregates *before* you filter your sample for large particles. This avoids underestimation. See [Break up clumps and chains](/advanced/advanced-sample-preparation/break-up-clumps-and-chains.md).
{% endhint %}

## Example

Stool samples are a good example. See [Crude samples](/not-in-the-new-structure/meta/applications/coarse-samples.md)) for a protocol tailored for stool samples. While focused on stool samples, this guide also contains good general information.

## Motivation

Large particles (above 10 µm) may clog the BactoBox® setup. Remove these large particles from your sample before you measure it with BactoBox®.

<figure><img src="https://2483617760-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FCaBGkox4Fd7NCFFCF47X%2Fuploads%2Fgit-blob-2a7d79264f6d55b8108d886a004142b62e0e8f4b%2Fillustration--particle-size-chart.png?alt=media" alt=""><figcaption><p>Particles of various size.<br>Source: <a href="https://www.visualcapitalist.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/relative-size-of-particles-infographic.html">https://www.visualcapitalist.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/relative-size-of-particles-infographic.html</a></p></figcaption></figure>


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