Portable Sensor for Detection of Microorganisms in Groundwater

Measurement and monitoring of subsurface microbial activity plays a critical role in studying the extent of contamination at the Department of Energy (DOE) sites and its impact on the surrounding environment. The subsurface microbiology is a window into the health of the soil and groundwater before, during and after contaminant remediation. Development of rapid, field-deployable sensing systems is critical in achieving long-term success for contaminant immobilization and stabilization. The proposed program will develop a rapid and highly specific electrochemical sensor device that would enable detection and continuous monitoring of select microorganisms in groundwater and soil samples. The proposed sensor will employ reusable electrodes and a highly sensitive redox couple to allow for low detection limits specific to the presence of Geobacter species and other targeted microorganisms. In this Phase I project, Giner, Inc. proposes to develop a portable electrochemical monitor for rapid and accurate detection of select Geobacter microorganisms in groundwater that have important roles in environmental restoration. This program will develop the first electrochemical microbial sensor that uses reusable, unmodified electrodes with a unique analyte pre-concentration step to demonstrate unprecedented detection limits and ease of field operation at low cost. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits: If successful, this program will provide a platform technology for fast and accurate screening for specific microorganisms at low cost for various clinical, industrial, and environmental applications. Other versions of the monitoring system could be used for monitoring contamination of food, drinking water, and household surfaces.