Researcher in Ritsumeikan University In Japan, they developed a self-powered biosensor to monitor organic matter contamination in freshwater. According to a publication in Journal of Biochemical Engineering This cost-effective 3D printed swimming biosensor is based on a microbial fuel cell.
The biosensor uses electrolytic bacteria that generate electricity during metabolism. The amount of electricity depends on the concentration of organic pollution that is metabolized by bacteria. This connection is used to measure water quality.
The sensor electrodes are made of inexpensive carbon material. According to lead researcher Kozo Taguchi, the bacteria themselves generate the necessary electricity, so no external power source is needed. An LED indicator indicates when the minimum chemical oxygen requirement has been exceeded as a measure of pollution.
According to the researchers, the 3D-printed swimming biosensor could be used in a cost-effective way for an early warning system on rivers and lakes in order to detect peak pollution caused by organic wastewater at an early stage. Therefore, it contributes to the protection of aquatic ecosystems.
Scientists see great potential for the practical use of the biosensor to monitor water quality. Cost-effective production through 3D printing is an important advantage of this concept.
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