MiCRA’s unique skill set in R&D of chemical and biological diagnostics and sensors has culminated in several highly successful projects with established companies in the aquatic and drinking water testing sector. Testing strategies include rapid electronic chemical sensors for inorganic and organic pollutants in water and soil, toxicity testing and point of site rapid microbial enumeration including pollution alert systems.
Rationale
Companies are coming under increased regulatory and public pressure to minimise pollutants, particularly in wastewater streams. Environmental testing to date has traditionally involved field sampling followed by laboratory analysis or bulky/complex monitoring stations. This is still broadly the case though there is a growing trend toward lightweight, autonomous, sensor systems for fresh or marine water deployment. One of MiCRA’s core detection methodologies involves electroanalysis at thick film transducer surfaces, realising systems with low power requirements and robust, compact electronics.
Opportunities
Environmental regulations regarding priority pollutants and MRLs are being continually updated, subject to EU legislation. As such there is an ongoing demand from industry for cheap and easy-to-implement pollution monitoring systems.
The small, electrochemical-based sensors developed by MiCRA are ideal for integration into wireless and satellite-based monitoring systems. This is an area we are actively pursuing with other Gateways and industry collaborators.
Likewise, portable/hand held systems are also required for spot checks and MiCRA has experience developing these systems.
