Bioprocess Optimisation

About

Problem/issue: Measurement of the spectral characteristics of the electrical conductivity of biological materials, often termed ‘bioelectrical impedance spectroscopy (BIS)’, is well known to provide information on the structure and composition of such materials including the relative proportions of intracellular and extracellular fluid and the cellular dimensions. BIS has been mainly performed galvanically i.e. by employing electrodes for the injection of current into the sample and for the measurement of surface potential differences. The electrode-sample interface however is the source of several difficulties including electrode polarisation, due to the electrical double layer and skin impedance, encountered in non-invasive measurements on humans and on many foodstuffs, which can be high in comparison with the impedance of the internal tissues. Electrode fouling and damage is also likely in physically extreme or biologically active environments. The industrial deployment of BIS has thus likely been limited in its range of applications by these practical issues.   Our new technology: The Sustainable Environment Research Centre (SERC) at the University of South Wales has developed a novel, non-contact technology for the measurement and monitoring of biomass and has successfully demonstrated its use in measuring different biological materials, digestate and solid samples. The innovative design overcomes the significant practical difficulties faced by current electrode-based approaches. As well as continuous online monitoring of industrial processes, the technology has considerable potential for monitoring bio-industrial processes and quality.   Benefits: Continuous, online monitoring of industrial processes without contamination or disturbance of the process Not subject to fouling, abrasion or chemical interferences Robust and reliable Can be used in aggressive, biologically active environments Can operate even through electrically-insulating packaging materials Suitable for large sample volumes Ease of access for maintenance   Applications: Food, dairy and brewing industries e.g. for process monitoring Quality assessment of meats, fruits and vegetables and processed foods Monitoring of biomass in fermentation and cell culture processes e.g. antibiotic production Monitoring of biomass in bioplastics production Anaerobic digestion e.g. monitoring feedstocks Sewage treatment e.g. monitoring and controlling sewage treatment processes Production of bio-fuels e.g. process monitoring Agritech   Intellectual property: Patent pending Demonstrator Test results Specialist technical/proprietary know-how