Global Biodefense January 14, 2020 An international team of researchers (US – US Army, Australia) used a single laser beam to develop an advanced analytical technique that can detect and characterize any type of airborne particles, naturally occurring (dust, smoke, pollen, ash, etc.) or those harmful and deliberately disseminated such as chemical and biological warfare agents. They used two small parabolic mirrors to shape up a hollow laser beam and create highly efficient trapping forces — instead of using expensive microscope objectives and complex optical setup. The approach provides contactless particle manipulation and allows a rapid and precise physio-chemical characterization. […]