Methods and devices to determine rate of particle production and the size range for the particles produced for an individual are described herein. The device ( 10 ) contains a
mouthpiece ( 12 ), a filter ( 14 ), a
low resistance one-way valve ( 16 ), a
particle counter ( 20 ) and a computer ( 30 ). Optionally, the device also contains a gas flow meter ( 22 ). The data obtained using the device can be used to determine if a formulation for reducing particle
exhalation should be administered to an individual. This device is particularly useful prior to and / or following entry in a
cleanroom to ensure that the
cleanroom standards are maintained. The device can also be used to identify animals and humans who have an enhanced propensity to exhale aerosols (referred to herein as ''over producers'', ''super-producers'', or ''superspreaders''). Formulations to reduce particle production are also described herein. The formulation is administered in an amount sufficient to alter biophysical properties in the mucosal linings of the body. When applied to mucosal lining fluids, the formulation alters the physical properties such as the gel characteristics at the air /
liquid interface,
surface elasticity, surface
viscosity,
surface tension and bulk
viscoelasticity of the mucosal lining. The formulation is administered in an effective amount to minimize ambient
contamination due to particle formation during
breathing, coughing, sneezing, or talking, which is particularly important in
cleanroom applications. In one embodiment, the formulation for administration is a non-surfactant solution. In one embodiment, the formulations are conductive formulations containing conductive agents, such as salts, ionic surfactants, or other substances that are in an ionized state or easily ionized in an aqueous or
organic solvent environment. Preferably the formulation is administered in the form of an
aerosol.