Digitalising microbial monitoring

In this recent presentation by Anna Whittaker, she introduces a powerful alternative to traditional bacterial monitoring: online automated flow cytometry.

Traditional bacterial monitoring methods like heterotrophic plate counts are notoriously slow and limited in scope. Results take up to three days, and even then, they fail to detect the vast majority of microorganisms in a sample.

Technology showcased in this lecture uses Bnovate’s BactoSense analyser. This allows for real-time, fully automated microbial monitoring.

Instead of waiting days for results, water quality operators can now access complete bacterial profiles in just 20 minutes.

Even more impressive is the ability to monitor continuously - day and night - delivering round-the-clock insight into microbial conditions.

How does it work?

The technology works by mixing a water sample with a fluorescent dye that binds to bacterial DNA.

As the dyed bacteria pass through a laser detector, the system distinguishes between bacterial cells and non-biological particles. This provides a total bacterial count with no manual intervention.

One standout example of this in action comes from Saxon, a town in the Swiss Alps.

Despite their pristine water sources, the region faces periodic contamination from rainfall and snowmelt.

By integrating the BactoSense analyser with both their SCADA system and local weather alerts, the town was able to automate its microbial sampling and chlorine dosing.

When contamination is detected, chlorination levels are automatically adjusted - or triggered - depending on severity. Even public alerts (such as boil-water notices) are issued.

This approach has not only helped reduce illness but allowed the community to avoid unnecessary year-round chlorination, maintaining water quality and public trust.

This digital leap in microbiological monitoring is just one of the exciting innovations shaping the future of water management.

To watch the full lecture, sign in to the Envirotech platform now.

And don’t forget to explore Aquamate – our new global exhibition series for the water and wastewater sector.

Visit: www.ilmexhibitions.com.