Bioaerosol emissions from activated sludge basins: Characterization, release, and attenuation

This article presents a critical review of the peer-reviewed literature related to bioaerosol generation from activated sludge basins. Characterization techniques include a variety of culture- and nonculture-based techniques, each with unique features. Bioaerosols contain a variety of clinical pathogens including Staphylococcus saprophyticus, Clostridium perfringens, and Salmonella enteritidis; exposure to these microorganisms increases human health risks. Release mechanisms involve splashing and bubble burst dynamics. Larger bubbles emit more aerosol particles than smaller ones. Attenuation strategies include covering sources with lids, adjusting the method and intensity of aeration, and using free-floating carrier media. Future studies should combine culture and non-culture based methods, and expand chemical databases and spectral libraries in order to realize the full power of real-time online monitoring. [Display omitted] •Activated sludge basins generate bioaerosols that transmit clinical pathogens.•Bioaerosols are released via splashing and bubble bursting.•Ecological characterization includes various culture and PCR analytical methods.•Control strategies include covering, aeration adjustment, and free-floating media.