Experimental study on bioaerosols behavior and purification measures in a subway compartment

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Public Health
• Engineering

Background:

• Bioaerosols in public transport pose significant health risks.
• Understanding bioaerosol spread is crucial for passenger safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• Investigate bioaerosol spread in subway compartments.
• Evaluate the efficacy of novel air purification devices.

Main Methods:

• Air and sediment sampling to track bioaerosol distribution.
• Deployment of intense field dielectric (IFD) and dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) air purifiers.
• Monitoring purification rates and passenger comfort.

Main Results:

• Bioaerosols rapidly spread via airborne transmission within 5 minutes.
• Concentration differences were minimal (<10%) across the compartment.
• Significant bioaerosol deposition occurred on surfaces, indicating contact transmission risk.
• IFD and DBD devices achieved real-time purification rates of 59.40% and 44.98%.

Conclusions:

• Bioaerosols present a dual airborne and contact transmission risk in subways.
• IFD and DBD air purification technologies are effective for subway environments.
• These devices offer a viable, energy-efficient solution for improving indoor air quality in public transport.