3. Study of microbial aerosols

3.1 Difficulties in studying microbial aerosols

In addition to the limitations inherent in the methods used to study microbial ecosystems detailed in the previous chapter, the study of microbial aerosols involves a number of particular difficulties. These are mainly related to their cultivability and low quantity. Traditionally, culture followed by isolation has been the method of choice for enumerating airborne microorganisms. Indeed, it provides both qualitative and quantitative data on microbial aerosols in a given environment by collecting small volumes (around 500 L). However, aerosolization and collection methods (collection time, humidity) are two factors that strongly affect the viability of microorganisms.