Autofluorescence is gaining interest as a method to detect and identify aerosol biological agents because of its potential to minimize the cost of consumables associated with DNA-based detection systems. Instruments that rely on autofluorescence use an ultraviolet light source to excite biological samples, and then determine the size of particles by measuring elastic scattering. These instruments typically monitor several wavelengths, and identify the agent by comparing the spectral signature of the sample against the known signatures of particular pathogens.

Several other new approaches to biological agent identification take advantage of photonics devices. Instruments based on Raman spectroscopy or SERS (surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy), for example, identify biological samples by detecting their Raman shift with a linear image sensor. There are also high-throughput sensors built around microarray chips that use confocal techniques to read out fluorescence. Another approach, developed with MEMS (micro electro-mechanical systems) technology, uses the combination of microcantilevers and light detection to measure the mass of molecules as a way of identifying biological samples.

• R7400U: compact PMT with choice of spectral responses. Suitable for fluorescence detection.
• H9858 series: TO-8 PMT photosensor module for portable measurement devices. Low power consumption.
• H9797 series: photodetection assemblies for simultaneous detection of multiple wavelengths.
• H9530 series: compact 8-channel PMT assembly. Suitable for fluorescence spectral detection.
• H9305 series: compact PMT module with high gain and high QE. Suitable for microarray scanners.
• S9972/S9973 series: front-illuminated CCD image sensors with high infrared sensitivity. Suitable for Raman spectroscopy, SERS.
• S8745-01: silicon photodiode with built-in preamplifier. Suitable for low-light measurements at low bandwidth.
• S1223: silicon PIN photodiode. Suitable for particle sizing/counting applications.
• L9455, L9456: compact 5-watt xenon flash lamp modules.

Please contact us for information on other products which can be used for this application.