Automated industrial microbiology - demand-optimized biocide dosing in the paper industry

In many industries such as paper manufacturing microbial spoilage appears to be an every-day problem, which involves slime formation, odor and even production stops. This phenomenon is caused by the raw materials used, the production conditions applied as well as a limited microbial production hygiene. Under certain conditions these root causes lead to malfunctioning machines as well as production stops. In order to eliminate the formation of microbial spoilage at a process affecting level, a huge amount of biocides – typically overdosed – are applied. Measuring techniques, such as the Plate Count-Technique representing the golden standard, only allow for a timely delayed monitoring of the microbial load. Results are typically available after 48 hours upon incubation. In addition, this measurement technique is limited to microorganisms which can be cultivated under laboratory conditions. Simple decision rules with regard to biocide dosage, widely acting additive mixtures as well as overdosing for production safety reasons are often applied.

c-square bioscience’s core business is represented by helping the industry to produce more resource-efficiently. The dynamic effect of biocides is being tackled by a fully automated, paper industry-robust flow cytometry device among other measurement devices which is capable of measuring the microbial load on a 24/7-scale. This allows for rapid information on the microbial load present at the production site.

The data generated is used in a control loop to enable demand-oriented dosage of biocides. This approach facilitates the dosage of a suitable biocide just at a minimum quantity. Doing so biocide savings in the range of 20-50% can be realized, which is demonstrated by selected use-cases.