SMI has an extensive track record collaborating with universities, government entities and professional organizations on research in new analytical methods, novel filtration and capture mechanisms, and treatment technologies that promise to revolutionize the state of the art.  The microfluidics technologies developed by the University of Notre Dame are an example of this collaborative effort.

Regulators and treatment plant operators need real-time data to make decisions about the microbial quality of source waters, treated and recreational waters.  Current microbiological methods require 24-48 hour incubation of cultures before the results are available.  However, by the time that test results are released, significant human exposures to microbiological pollutants may have occurred.

In an effort to address this long delay, SMI has partnered with the Center for Microfluidics & Medical Diagnostics at the University of Notre Dame to develop integrated microfluidics platforms that may solve this problem.  Microfluidics technologies allow for ultra-rapid concentration and detection of pathogens in the micro-scale using low voltage electrical fields.  Microbiological particles in environmental samples can be captured directly above bioelectrical sensors for rapid and sensitive detection.

A report detailing SMI's collaboration with the Center for Microfluidics and Medical Diagnostics is available at the Center's website.  The following link will take you to the report:  Rapid Pathogen Concentration & Detection.  A video demonstration of the technology, is also available.

For further information about SMI's services, please feel to contact a project manager at (574) 277-4078.