Real-time monitoring of soil bacteria with microbial potentiometric sensor system
The Microbial Potentiometric Sensor (MPS) system provides real-time monitoring of soil bacteria by measuring electron transfer within biofilms. Field-tested, it offers insights into microbial metabolic responses influenced by soil chemistry changes.
Overview
The Microbial Potentiometric Sensor (MPS) system is an innovative solution for real-time monitoring of soil bacteria. Unlike traditional methods that measure soil chemistry, the MPS focuses on the microbial response to changes in the soil environment. This system utilizes a vertical array of sensors to detect the transfer of electrons through extracellular electron transfer (EET) networks within soil biofilms. By interpreting the sigmoidal signal patterns, the system provides valuable insights into the metabolic activities of anaerobic and aerobic microorganisms, offering a novel approach to understanding soil health and microbial dynamics.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Field deployable system: Simple and inexpensive, designed for use in diverse environments such as aquatic systems and soil profiles.
- Advanced sensor arrays: Capable of supporting up to 56 sensors per instrument, allowing for detailed 2D and 3D visualizations of bacterial activity.
- Real-time data transmission: Utilizes Wi-Fi or cellular routers to send data to cloud databases, accessible via dashboards on smartphones and other devices.
- Integration with additional sensors: Compatible with ORP, pH, and moisture sensors to provide a comprehensive view of soil electrochemical changes.
Technology readiness level
The MPS system is at Technology Readiness Level 5, indicating that it has been validated in relevant environments with successful field testing over seven years. Current plans involve further validation through controlled plot studies to compare microbial responses and crop performance under different fertilization conditions.
About Burge Environmental, Inc
Burge Environmental, Inc. develops advanced analytical monitoring technologies, notably its proprietary MiProbE microbial sensor probe technology. This system, which integrates with a Microbial Signal Processor and a cloud-based analytics platform, provides real-time monitoring of microbial biofilm responses in complex environments such as wastewater treatment plants, industrial fish farming, and subsurface environmental monitoring. Unlike conventional sensors that often suffer from fouling in these demanding applications, the MiProbE technology utilizes the biofilm itself as the active sensing surface, requiring no regular maintenance. The company has also developed a range of custom sensing technologies designed to detect contaminants, including various heavy metals and radioactive isotopes, leveraging decades of research supported by federal grants.
These technologies are vital for customers and partners needing reliable process control and environmental oversight in challenging conditions where traditional sensors fail. By providing actionable, real-time data on microbial activity and substrate changes, Burge Environmental enables improved efficiency in industrial bioreactors and enhanced characterization of subsurface environments. The company has a long track record of securing and executing Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) awards from agencies like the U.S. Department of Energy and the Department of Defense, reflecting their role as a specialized developer of innovative, research-driven monitoring solutions. Their work supports critical applications in resource management, waste treatment optimization, and environmental remediation.
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