A low-cost, networkable fluorescence spectrometer for automatic identification of pollen and other coarse mode aerosols found in urban environments

The limitations in current atmospheric sensing technologies for large bioaerosols, particularly pollen, create gaps in our understanding and monitoring capabilities, affecting everything from public health to climate change studies. In alignment with the Department of Energy's objective to enhance environmental sensing, our project aims to mitigate these gaps. Our Phase I objective is to develop an optical sensor capable of performing continuous, real-time measurements of airborne pollen and other large particles using fluorescence spectroscopy techniques. The system will integrate a novel, flow-through measurement volume and be complemented by new software for automated feature recognition. During Phase I, we will design and build a prototype incorporating consumer-grade diode lasers for particle excitation and low-cost imaging sensors used in smartphones. We will also develop software to interpret the high-resolution data in a quasi-real-time manner. Validation of the sensor's performance will be conducted in laboratory conditions using several particle types, including pollen. The technology has broad commercial applications extending beyond atmospheric science. These include public health benefits through real-time allergen monitoring, enhanced air quality control systems, and data to inform environmental policies.