Sensor output helps detect water pollution immediately

A team of students from the Technical University of Denmark has announced that they have successfully created a type of sensor that can detect bacteria in water almost immediately. Currently, if you want to check if a water source is already in existence, you have to take the water sample and then take it to the lab and wait for a few days.

The sensor detects extremely rapid water pollution

Co-developed with SBT Aqua, the new sensor uses a technique called impedance flow cytometry , meaning that the liquid sample runs continuously through a microfluidic device ( microfluidic) . Inside this microfluidic is a series of electrodes, which allow the electrical signal to pass through. When bacteria and other particles flow through these electrodes, they cause impedance variations and are detected by the sensors.

Because the change in impedance caused by the bacteria is not the same as the other particles in water, there is no confusion between these two factors during the water test. In fact, these impedance changes are even different between different types of bacteria, so SBT claims that their technology can also detect all types of bacteria present in the water.

In addition to being used as a handheld device to check for contaminated water, the new sensor can also be installed at various water testing stations, running along a water line, and all will be connected. together. If one of the stations detected any abnormalities in the water, it would immediately send out a signal to those responsible for management.

This new sensor is expected to be commercially available next year.