Inactivation of S. epidermidis, B. subtilis, and E. coli bacteria bioaerosols deposited on a filter utilizing airborne silver nanoparticles

In the present study, a control methodology utilizing airborne silver nanoparticles is suggested and tested with respect to its potential to control Gram-positive Staphylococcus epidermidis and Bacillus subtilis, and Gram-negative Escherichia coli bacteria bioaerosols deposited on filters. As it is known that the Gram-negative bacteria are sensitive to airflow exposure, the main focus of this study for testing the airborne silver nanoparticles effect was the Gram-positive Staphylococcus epidermidis and Bacillus subtilis bacteria bioaerosols whereas Escherichia coli bioaerosols were utilized for comparison. Airborne bacteria and airborne silver nanoparticles were quantitatively generated in an experimental system. Bioaerosols deposited on the filter were exposed to airborne silver nanoparticles. The physical and biological properties of the airborne bacteria and airborne silver nanoparticles were measured via aerosol measurement devices. From the experimental results, it was demonstrated that this method utilizing airborne silver nanoparticles offers potential as a bioaerosol control methodology.