Cell Density Probes

Two new cell density IR probes, models FS4 and FS5, can be used with Sentex/Monitek's CT6, CT8 or CC2A monitors to provide direct, on-line real-time measurements, without the need for sampling. This eliminates volume loss, dilution errors and the risk of contamination. Accurate measurements of cell mass are now possible without having to perform manual cell counts.

Many fermentor-related applications involve measuring product concentration, or cell density, of bacteria, yeast, fungi or mammalian cells. Monitek's model FS4 and FS5 probes have an 890NM light source and IR detector. The probes measure radiant energy loss caused by cells in the light beam's path. This process, termed "light absorption technique," actually measures cell mass, which is directly related to cell density. The probe measures in the IR region to minimize interference from ambient light and chromogenic species.

The removable probe can be inserted into the fermentor through a standard 25mm or 19mm diameter port. It can be sterilized or autoclaved, and a variety of probe lengths are available.

Sentex/Monitek, 1495 Zephyr Ave., Hayward, CA 94544. Tel: 510-471-8300; Fax: 510-471-8647.