Purdue Researchers Use Bluetooth Technology for Innovative On-Site E. coli Testing
Purdue University researchers have come up with a bioluminescence-based assay, coupled with a portable device that works with smartphones and laptops, to perform on-site testing for harmful Escherichia coli in food samples.
The device, known as a silicon photomultiplier, uses low light from the bioluminescent assay to detect the presence of bacteria in food that may cause foodborne illness. The Purdue team also created an electrical circuit with an amplifier, comparator, and microcontroller to send the data to laptops and smartphones via Bluetooth technology. They used 3D printing to design a portable cradle for the silicon photomultiplier.