Microwave sensor for detection of E. coli in water

Abstract

This paper reports a rapid microwave biosensor to check for Escherichia coli contamination in water samples, which can thereafter be extended for testing of other microbes as well. The sensor is a 3×3 array of polystyrene cylinders 8 of which are filled with poly vinyl chloride solid cylinders with the centre hollow cylinder holding the sample to be investigated. The sensor takes only 4-5 minutes for sensitive detection of up to 1-2 Colony forming units (CFU) of Escherichia coli. The present technique thus proves better than all presently available techniques in terms of both sensitivity and resolution and speeds up the detection process manifold. Microwave bio-sensing thus presents itself as a promising solution for rapid, sensitive and user-friendly detection of water contamination.