Detecting pollutants

Traditional methods for monitoring pollutants in water involve grab-sampling water samples on site, which are then transported to central laboratories for analysis. However, this approach can be both costly and time-consuming. In addition, for remote sites, sampling may only occur as infrequently as twice a year. Our technology offers an alternative solution to this problem by providing real-time monitoring that is continuous and cost-effective, making it easier to quickly identify and address any issues with pollutants in water.

Photonic based technology

Our photonic-based technology utilizes optical chemical sensor materials developed in St Andrews that are designed to integrate with low-cost portable instrumentation platforms. These selective materials are able to detect target molecules by exhibiting a loss of light emission when in contact with the analyte. Specifically, our technology employs light-emitting polymers that are highly effective in a variety of applications.

Our prototype device

Our sensor platforms are designed to be lightweight and portable, making them easy to deploy in a variety of settings. Multiple units can be integrated together in a buoy to form a powerful multianalyte network, ideal for long-term monitoring of water bodies, drinking water intake points, and ecologically sensitive areas against accidental or malicious contamination. In addition, the sensors can be placed non-disruptively along processing lines.

Our hardware platforms are one-off purchases with a long operational lifetime, while the selective sensor element is a disposable, replaceable film.