Device and method for detecting bacterial endospores that are suspended in the atmosphere

摘要

A device that detects bacterial endospores suspended in the atmosphere is provided. The device having an aerosol concentrator, a collection vessel containing a lanthanide salt solution, an excitation energy source and an optical set-up that directs the excitation energy source to the lanthanide salt solution and collects photoluminescence generated by the lanthanide salt solution upon receipt of the excitation energy source. A system and method for detecting bacterial endospores is also disclosed.