Wastewater or sewage,”includes water from household/building use (i.e., toilets, showers, sinks) that can contain human fecal waste, as well as water from non-household sources (e.g., rainwater and industrial use). Wastewater can be tested for RNA from SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19 and other viruses. Wastewater testing over time can provide trend data that can complement other surveillance data that informs public health decision making. Centrifon's waste water testing solution using centrifugation offers many advantages over current filter based solutions including the ability to create concentrated samples from much larger volumes of waste water, clog-free processing, and much lower costs.
Centrifon BEM3
Centrifon has developed a multi-purpose continuous flow centrifugation methodology that allows for the concurrent concentration and processing of protozoa, bacteria, and viruses from large volumes of of waste water or liquids of any medium. The Bio Elutriation Model 3 (BEM3) is a portable device that automates this methodology, providing a simple, robust, cost effective platform that requires little to no amount of technical knowledge to operate.
Centrifon's approach represents a significant advance in waterborne pathogen monitoring, greatly assisting water utilities and public health authorities as well as other industry sectors (food, beverages, homeland security) all of which require rapid results for microbial quality and water safety
Key Features
The BEM3 is a portable, automated device which employs continuous flow centrifugation to simultaneously concentrate multiple pathogens from large volume liquid samples of any matrix. Unlike traditional filtration components, clogging is non-existent, allowing up to 1000L samples to be processed.
Simultaneous Concentration
Concurrent testing for bacteria, protozoa and viruses saves time and materials.
Automated, Self-Contained Operation
The concentration and elution processes are completely automated and self contained in disposable sets, eliminating virtually all manual labor and decontamination from the procedure.
Portability
With a small footprint (30cm x 33cm x 40cm) and light weight (10kg) the BEM3 is legitimately portable. The optional transportation cart comes with a rechargeable battery pack enabling long-term field operation.
EPA Method 1623 Approved
Approved by the EPA for Method 1623, detection of Cryptosporidium and Giardia in water. Currently under EPA Environmental Technology Verification (ETV) and Alternative Test Procedure (ATP) evaluation for multiple pathogen concentration.
Compatibility
Concentrate from the process is compatible with any detection method.
Sophisticated Digital Control
The programmable logic computer (PLC) of the BEM3 provides user flexibility and simplifies operation. Preset protocols are stored and custom programs can be easily created.
Internet Connectivity
Remote operation, programming and technical diagnostics at any location with internet access.
Green Technology
The BEM2 consumes less disposables and reagents compared to traditional monitoring methods.