How the Biomass Monitor Works

Cells grown in bioreactors such as mammalian or insect cells, fungi (including yeast), bacteria with intact plasma membranes can be considered to act as tiny capacitors under the influence of an electric field. The non-conducting membrane allows a build up of charge. The resulting capacitance can be measured; it is dependent upon the cell type and is directly proportional to the concentration of these viable cells.

A unique probe suitable for cGMP and available in 12,19 or 25mm diameter uses four electrodes to apply a radio frequency field to the biomass in a fermenter. Electronic processing of the resulting signal produces an output which is an accurate measurement of the concentration of viable cells. The Aber Biomass Monitor system is responsive to viable cells and is insensitive to cells with leaky membranes, the media, gas bubbles and debris.