Morphological classification of bioaerosols from composting using scanning electron microscopy A. Tamer Vestlund a,b, R. Al-Ashaab a, S.F. Tyrrel a, P.J. Longhurst a, S.J.T. Pollard a, G.H. Drew a,⇑ a Institute for Energy and Resource Technology, Environmental Science and Technology Department, School of Applied Sciences, Cranfield University, Building 40, Bedfordshire MK43 0AL, UK b FIRA International Ltd., Maxwell Road, Stevenage, Herts SG1 2EW, UK
a r t i c l e
i n f o
Article history: Received 26 November 2013 Accepted 31 January 2014 Available online xxxx Keywords: Bioaerosols Dispersion SEM Particle size Aggregation
a b s t r a c t This research classifies the physical morphology (form and structure) of bioaerosols emitted from open windrow composting. Aggregation state, shape and size of the particles captured are reported alongside the implications for bioaerosol dispersal after release. Bioaerosol sampling took place at a composting facility using personal air filter samplers. Samples were analysed using scanning electron microscopy. Particles were released mainly as small (1 lm) single cells, with aggregates occurring in smaller proportions. Most aggregates consisted of clusters of 2–3 particles as opposed to chains, and were
Morphological classification of bioaerosols from composting using scanning electron microscopy.
This research classifies the physical morphology (form and structure) of bioaerosols emitted from open windrow composting. Aggregation state, shape an...