Abstract
The current method for detecting asbestos fibers in air relies on a combination of phase-contrast and electron microscopy. Since this analysis is time-consuming and requires highly skilled operators, as well as bulky equipment, it is not suitable for on-site asbestos testing. The authors have developed the fluorescence microscopy (FM) method, which relies on fluorescence probes that can selectively bind to asbestos. A high correlation was observed between test results presented by the FM method and those of the electron microscopy-based method. In 2017, Japan’s Ministry of the Environment approved the FM method as a rapid analytical method for asbestos release at demolition sites. To address the demand for on-site detection of asbestos, we developed a portable fluorescent microscope that is robust enough to tolerate outdoor use. The FM method using an air sampling/fluorescent staining equipment and the portable fluorescent microscope can provide results within an hour at demolition sites. The authors are currently using an AI image analysis in order to develop a fully automatic airborne asbestos detection system.
