A Small and Inexpensive Biosensor based Device for On Line Evaluation of Microalgae Metabolism Inhibition

Masci A., Galluppi S., Micheli C. and Pilloton R.

ENEA CR. Casaccia C.P. 2400/00100 ROMA ITALY
 
 

Abstract: A biosensor based device was assembled with the aim to investigate on algal primary production as crucial process in the life dynamic and health state of aquatic ecosystems. The new device is based on a fast and not expensive "on line" micro-electrode system for the determination of the inhibition of algal metabolism. Oxygen evolution induced from the light was determined using a small number of living algae entrapped in an agarose gel matrix and deposited on a screen printed microelectrode. The photosinthetic biosensor was placed in a flow cell obtained by carving a light emitting diode (LED). The micro-electrode was cut from a PVC sheet on which graphite (Pt) and silver based pastes were deposited on both sides by screen printing. As a result a photosynthetic biosensor working in sea water without artificial electron acceptor or other activators added in solution was obtained. Additionally photosynthetic parameters obtained by different methods such as Clark-type oxygen electrode and Pump and probe technique were compared with the new method.
 
 

Keywords: Algae, Photosynthesis, Inhibition, Biosensor, Device, Screen Printing