Automated Monitoring of Subsurface Microbial Metabolism with Graphite Electrodes

An automated, real-time monitoring system for determining microbial activity in aqueous and subsurface environments (soils, aquifers and wastewater treatment facilities) will allow for improved characterization (fate and transport) of organic carbon in natural and industrial environments.General statement of how this problem is being addressedDeveloping an automated, field-deployable monitoring system using sensor array- based microbial fuel cell technology. The system will be capable of long-term deployments in natural and industrial environments. The system can be used to optimize remedial actions and industrial processes (wastewater treatment, bioreactors).What was performed in the Phase II?The capabilities of the system were characterized. Eleven systems were deployed in four states monitoring superfund and contaminated aquifers, aquaculture farms, algae ponds, and wastewater treatment facilities.What is planned for the Phase IIB?The Phase II identified new markets where the monitoring system would be capable of measurable efficiency improvements. These new markets include industrial bioreactors, wastewater treatment facilities, aquaculture and precision agriculture. Several technical questions were not addressed in the Phase II that will be critical to support the marketability of the technology in these newly identified markets.The ability to directly measure, in real-time, the microbial processes of these industries is a technological disruption that will replace indirect measurement, and expensive lab analyses – changing the paradigm of biotechnology processes.Commercial Activities and other Benefits A sensor system that can directly monitor the microbial response to physical/chemical changes will have application in many markets including wastewater treatment, industrial bioreactors, process control, pharmaceuticals, aquaculture, precision agriculture and cleanup of contaminated sites.