Real-time biological agent detection using particle size, shape and fluorescence characterisation

Abstract

Developments in real time optical biological agent detection and sensing are presented which describe start of the art advances in the detection and warning of these pathogens. The following paper describes the basic operating principles of the current BIRAL ASAS(TM) (Aerosol Size and Shape) system which measures the optically determined particle properties, on a particle by particle basis, and uses the information to describe the size and shape characteristics of the aerosol. Furthermore, recent development of the existing technology to also encompass fluorescence detection is described, which significantly increases the detection ability of the ASAS(TM) aerosol Suite. This operational improvement is a major advancement in the field of airborne biological agent detection and allows for near generic detection and warning. Applications of this device include all aspects of bio-aerosol monitoring, including the use as a biological agent detector and generic identifier, use as a general bio-agent monitor and also for use as a hazardous environment monitor. Such a device would be particularly useful in the fields of Armed Forces protection and National Defence either as a point detector or as a "plug and play" biosensor detector in a network.