Innovative, sustainable, and reusable plasma device for maintenance of the coliform bacteria analyser (L2-60147)

Project Leader: Assoc. Prof. Dr Gregor Primc (Jozef Stefan Institute)

Within this project, we will study the scientific aspects of an innovative technology designed to upgrade a device for rapid detection of a couple of types of bacteria in water: E. coli, fecal bacteria, and Enterococcus hirae. The device was developed a few years ago by Microbium Ltd. and is marketed primarily in EU member states. The device enables the detection of both types of bacteria without the need for biological laboratories or experienced operators. It complies with ISO 9380/2, which defines the protocol for determining bacterial concentration using the MPN (most probable number) method. Chemicals that turn the water sample yellow (for example, E. coli) or green (for fecal bacteria) are added. The degree of water coloration after incubation determines the concentration of bacteria in the sample, which is measured by machine vision. The device has 24 chambers or wells, each containing a different volume of water, enabling a semi-quantitative determination of bacterial concentration in the water sample. This project’s industrial partner and co-financier plans to equip the bacteria-detection device with gaseous plasma to sterilize it. In the framework of the project, we will investigate the interaction of gaseous plasma with model samples of biofilms of both bacteria, possible modifications of the surface properties of the vessel into which the test water sample is poured, and the possibility of upgrading the device with electrodes that will be connected to a voltage source for plasma excitation. Gaseous plasma treatment will enable simple, reliable device sterilization before subsequent use.