Bioaerosols, as a critical component in atmospheric aerosols, significantly affect regional climate, environmental systems, and human health. These microscopic airborne particles encompass a wide range of biological entities, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and pollen. Their interactions with atmospheric processes can alter the chemical and physical properties of the atmosphere, influencing ecosystems and public health through multiple mechanisms. For instance, the dispersion of specific pathogens via bioaerosols can trigger infectious disease outbreaks, posing serious public health challenges. Pollen, a common allergen, affects millions of people worldwide by causing allergic reactions. In addition, bioaerosols play a pivotal role in the climate system. They can serve as cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) and ice nuclei (IN), thus influencing cloud formation, water cycles, and precipitation patterns. Furthermore, bioaerosols can modify the Earth’s radiation budget by absorbing and scattering solar radiation, which in turn affects temperature and precipitation. This dual influence on both climate and public health highlights the importance of understanding and monitoring bioaerosol dynamics. In recent years, advancements in optical detection technologies have revolutionized real-time bioaerosol monitoring, enabling researchers and public health agencies to better understand and manage bioaerosols. These technologies offer several advantages, such as high sensitivity, rapid response, and non-invasive detection, which are crucial for accurately tracking bioaerosol concentrations and compositions in the atmosphere. The integration of these advanced optical technologies is essential in bioaerosol research, enhancing our understanding of bioaerosol dynamics and their influence on public health and climate models. As the field progresses, the development and deployment of cutting-edge optical tools will continue to play a key role in addressing the challenges posed by bioaerosols.

Fluorescence scattering technology is one of the most commonly utilized methods for bioaerosol detection. This technique capitalizes on the fluorescence emitted by specific biomolecules when exposed to light of particular wavelengths. It offers high sensitivity and rapid response, making it well-suited for real-time environmental monitoring of bioaerosols. However, the method can be prone to interference from the fluorescence of non-biological particles, leading to potential false positives. Another widely utilized method is Raman scattering, a high-precision spectroscopic technique that identifies bioaerosols by detecting molecular vibrations and rotations. These molecular “fingerprints” provide detailed information about bioaerosol components. Although Raman scattering offers high resolution and selectivity, its inherently weak signal requires the use of sophisticated, high-sensitivity detection systems, limiting its widespread application. Mass spectrometry, particularly techniques like laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry, has also gained prominence for bioaerosol analysis. This method enables rapid and precise compositional analysis of bioaerosols, offering high sensitivity and resolution. However, the high cost and operational complexity of the equipment remain major drawbacks, requiring skilled personnel for operation and maintenance. Adenosine triphosphate (ATP) bioluminescence detection is another critical technology in bioaerosol research. It measures light emission from a biochemical reaction involving ATP, which serves as a universal energy carrier in biological cells, making it effective for detecting active microorganisms. The integration of ATP detection with microfluidic chips has emerged as a promising research direction, offering enhanced sensitivity and specificity for real-time monitoring of active microorganisms. Each of these optical and analytical technologies offers unique advantages and faces specific challenges in bioaerosol detection. Continued research and development will likely focus on refining these methods and integrating them with complementary technologies to further advance our understanding of bioaerosols and their impact on both the environment and human health.

Optical technologies hold immense potential for future applications in bioaerosol detection. Trends point towards the integration of artificial intelligence with optical technologies, and ongoing improvements in engineering and systematization. These advancements will drive future progress in bioaerosol research, enhancing our ability to monitor and mitigate their effects.