EADS unveils bio-detection device

Wednesday, 9 September, 2009

A hand-held detector that can detect biological threats in drinking water in minutes is being showcased by EADS Innovation Works (Stand 1475).

Using advanced micro-mechanical filters operating at 450 nanometers, the company’s Bio Detection System can detect microscopic bio-hazards including bacteria and single organisms, and is repeatable, providing results in 15 minutes. Key to its design is the thin silicon filter that traps any bacteria and single-cell organisms on its surface when water is passed through. These are then dyed and illuminated by lasers and instantly analysed by software linked to the system.

Peter Talbot-Jones from EADS Innovation Works said the hand-held device can deliver real-time alerts at reservoirs, in water systems and storage areas. “The Bio Detection System is easily portable and requires minimal training to operate,” he said. “At present it can often take hours or days to detect harmful substances in water, but the Bio Detection System can achieve this in minutes. It also eliminates the need to take samples from the water source to a laboratory.”