Patent ID: 7467754

Claim:
A disposable sample retainer for use with a comminution apparatus for comminuting a biological specimen consisting of strands of hair, comprising: a first portion configured for retaining the specimen and having a first generally planar comminution surface and a planar support grid separately formed from said first comminution surface and configured for being at least partially received within said first portion, said grid provides a supportive yet porous surface across said first comminution surface where the specimen is retained; a second portion configured for operational engagement with said first portion and having a second generally planar comminution surface; said first and second comminution surfaces being rotatable relative to each other for comminuting the specimen held therebetween; said first comminution surface being located below said second surface, said first surface being porous and said grid having multiple apertures for permitting the passage of the comminuted specimen; wherein said second comminution surface is provided with a plurality of spaced bosses having a height which is less than a diameter of strands of the specimen, said bosses being provided with sharpened edges so that upon relative rotation of said first and second surfaces, the strands of hair will be comminuted into a granular or powdery consistency; and wherein said first portion is a cup configured for retaining the specimen, and said second portion is a ram configured for operational engagement with said cup and having said generally planar comminution surface, said ram configured for rotating relative to said cup for effecting said comminution.