A new antibody-based biosensor developed by researchers at the Virginia Institute of Marine Science processes samples in less than 10 minutes and detects pollutants at levels as low as just a few parts per billion, at the cost of pennies per sample. The device is small and sturdy enough to be used from a boat.
Testing of the biosensor in the Elizabeth River and Yorktown Creek, which both drain into lower Chesapeake Bay, shows that the instrument can process samples in less than 10 minutes, detect pollutants at levels as low as just a few parts per billion, and do so at a cost of just pennies per sample. Current technology requires hours of lab work, with a per-sample cost of up to $1,000.
Also: Learn about a cost-effective coastal monitoring system.
