Fermentation & Bioreactor

The fermentation process is used for the production of biomass, enzymes, chemicals and pharmaceuticals. Cell types used in these culture processes were traditionally yeasts, fungi and bacteria.  Fermentation is a process breaks down large organic molecules via the action of microorganisms into simpler ones like yeast enzymes converting sugars and starches into alcohol, while proteins are converted to peptides/amino acids.  It is important to reduce production costs and optimize yields by improving fermentation conditions.  

We can provide fast and accurate analysis for control with our fixed magnetic sector mass spectrometer, MGA™ 1200CS™, for Oxygen Uptake Rate (OUR), Carbon Dioxide Evolution Rate (CER), Respiratory Quotient (RQ) and fermentation end point.  As well as easily monitor fermenter bioreactor off-gas composition analysis with our quadrupole mass spectrometer, EXTREL™ MAX300-LG™.

Water Quality for Agriculture 

Agricultural water is water that is used to grow fresh produce and sustain livestock. Pesticide usage promotes poor water quality.  Fertilizers use chemicals that harm our water. Stormwater and irrigation carry these chemicals to gullies, streams, lakes, and rivers and seeps into groundwater. When agricultural water is used effectively and safely, production and crop yield increase. A decrease can cause production and yield to decrease. 

Agricultural water, which is used for irrigation and other agricultural purposes, should be monitored for total organic carbon (TOC) for several reasons:

1. Water quality: TOC is a measure of the amount of organic matter present in water, and high levels of TOC can indicate poor water quality. Monitoring TOC levels in agricultural water can help to ensure that the water is safe for use in irrigation and other agricultural applications.

2. Plant growth: Organic matter in water can be a source of nutrients for plants, but excessive amounts of organic matter can have negative effects on plant growth and productivity. Monitoring TOC levels in agricultural water can help farmers to optimize their irrigation practices and ensure that their crops receive the right amount of nutrients.

3. Environmental impact: Excessive amounts of organic matter in water can also have negative impacts on the environment, such as promoting the growth of harmful algae blooms and depleting oxygen levels in water bodies. Monitoring TOC levels in agricultural water can help to minimize these environmental impacts.

4. Regulatory compliance: In some jurisdictions, agricultural water is subject to regulations that limit the amount of organic matter that can be present in the water. Monitoring TOC levels in agricultural water can help farmers to ensure compliance with these regulations.

Total Organic Carbon (TOC) monitoring is important for water purification. Sources of TOC are often from detergents, pesticides, fertilizers, herbicides, industrial chemicals, and other chlorinated organics. Purification processes for water treatment include removal of undesirable chemicals, bacteria, solid waste and gases and can be very costly.  You can quickly monitor Total Organic Carbon (TOC) with our application-specific water quality analyzers and monitor it in crop production water used for irrigation purposes.

Get to know our LAR™ fast and accurate water analyzers that measure and monitor the most important contaminant parameters: TOC, COD, BOD, Toxicity, TNb, and Oil-in-Water and were designed to fit environmental monitoring, municipal facilities, and industrial applications.

MOISTURE CONTROL 

Moisture control monitoring is important in agricultural production because it affects the quality and yield of crops. Here are a few reasons why moisture control is crucial in agricultural production:

1. Optimal growing conditions: Moisture is an essential component for plant growth and development. Too much or too little moisture can result in poor plant growth, reduced yields, and even crop failure. By monitoring moisture levels in soil, farmers can ensure that crops have the optimal growing conditions for healthy development.

2. Prevention of mold and bacterial growth: Moisture in crops can also lead to the growth of mold and bacteria, which can contaminate the crops and reduce their quality. By monitoring moisture levels, farmers can identify areas of high moisture and take steps to reduce it, such as improving drainage or adjusting irrigation schedules

1. Post-harvest quality: Moisture control is also important in post-harvest handling of crops, such as during drying and storage. Excessive moisture can lead to spoilage and decreased quality, while too little moisture can cause crops to dry out and lose flavor and nutritional value. By monitoring moisture levels during storage and processing, farmers can ensure that crops maintain their quality and nutritional value.

Moisture control monitoring is an important aspect of agricultural production because it helps farmers optimize growing conditions, prevent crop contamination and spoilage, and maintain the quality and nutritional value of crops.  Humidity and moisture in the processing line can result in the food being spoiled. When moisture is present, mildew, mold and bacteria can grow. Easily implement monitor moisture control with our field-proven dew point solutions in maturation and ripening, packaging, storage, and transportation of food and stimulants and continuous moisture analysis in instrument air and dryers, and portable spot checking.  Our COSA XENTAUR™ dew point moisture monitors are highly accurate and reliable tool for monitoring moisture in food processing. They provide real-time feedback on the moisture content of the food product, which helps food processors to optimize their operations and maintain product quality.

Benefits of our dew point moisture control solutions

• Trace moisture measurements for quality control of ammonia gas production
• Reduced energy costs
• Reduced product waste
• An effective process control system
• Improved quality control

Sterilization & Virus Deactivation

Our GUIDED WAVE™ ClearView db® HPV Hydrogen Peroxide Vapor analyzers can be used in sterilization and virus deactivation processes to monitor the concentration of hydrogen peroxide vapor, which is commonly used as a disinfectant. Here is how they work:

1. Hydrogen peroxide vapor is introduced into the sterilization or decontamination chamber to disinfect the area.

2. The guided wave hydrogen vapor photometer uses a light source to produce a beam of light that is transmitted through the vapor in the chamber.

3. The hydrogen peroxide molecules in the vapor absorb some of the light at a specific wavelength, which causes the intensity of the transmitted light to decrease.

4. The photometer measures the decrease in light intensity, which is proportional to the concentration of hydrogen peroxide in the vapor.

5. The concentration of hydrogen peroxide is displayed on a monitor, allowing the operator to monitor the sterilization or decontamination process.

Ammonia Fertilizer Process Control

Chemical fertilizers are critical to the agricultural sector. Ammonia is among the top 10 chemicals produced today.  Fertilizers account for 85% of the ammonia produced while other industrial uses include fibers, plastics, coatings and resins. Fertilizer combines atmospheric nitrogen with hydrogen gas to form ammonia. The hydrogen gas used for this process is usually obtained from methane derived from natural gas or other fossil fuels. Ammonia is critical in the manufacturing of fertilizers.  It is one of the largest-volume synthetic chemicals produced around world.

Ammonia fertilizer process control is crucial for several reasons:

1. Product quality: Ammonia is a critical raw material for the production of fertilizer products. The quality of the ammonia produced has a direct impact on the quality of the final fertilizer product. Process control is essential to ensure that the ammonia produced meets the required specifications for purity, concentration, and other quality parameters.

2. Efficiency: Ammonia production is a complex process that involves several stages and consumes a significant amount of energy. Process control helps to optimize the production process, minimize energy consumption, and reduce production costs.

3. Safety: Ammonia is a toxic and flammable gas that poses significant safety risks if not handled properly. Process control helps to minimize the risks associated with ammonia production by monitoring critical process parameters and detecting any deviations that could lead to safety hazards.

4. Environmental compliance: Ammonia production can have a significant impact on the environment, particularly in terms of greenhouse gas emissions. Process control helps to minimize the environmental impact of ammonia production by monitoring emissions and ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.

Most ammonia is produced by steam methane reforming of a natural gas feedstock. To improve process efficiency and reduce costs, manufacturers have adopted a closed loop control strategy.  With our Industrial Mass Spectrometer, EXTREL™ MAX300-RTG™ 2.0, you gain real-time ammonia process control for optimized steam control and tighter H:N ratio at the converter.  Gain safe, automated, inline analysis of nitrous acid and urea in liquid at ammonia fertilizer plants with our Dual Beam Photometer for PAT Monitoring. 

BENEFITS of Using Quadrupole Mass Spectrometer

OXYGEN MONITORING

Oxygen monitoring is an essential aspect of food and beverage production, especially for those products that require low oxygen levels to maintain their quality and freshness, such as beer, wine, and modified atmosphere packaged food. The Series 1300 Oxygen Monitor is a highly sensitive instrument that can accurately measure oxygen levels in the range of 0-25% in a variety of applications, including food and beverage production.

Oxygen Deficiency Monitors can provide numerous benefits in the agriculture industry. Here are some of the benefits of using ODMs in agriculture:

• Early Detection of Oxygen Deficiency: Can detect low oxygen levels before they become hazardous to crops, animals, and people. Early detection allows for timely interventions and can help prevent damage or loss.

• Improved Safety: C help prevent accidents and injuries due to oxygen-deficient environments. In agricultural operations such as grain storage, silage production, and animal confinement facilities, ODMs can alert workers and operators to hazardous conditions and prevent accidents.
• Compliance with Regulations: Can help agricultural operations comply with regulatory requirements for oxygen levels in storage facilities and animal confinement facilities.
• Improved Productivity: Can help maintain optimal oxygen levels for crops, animals, and microorganisms, which can improve productivity, yield, and quality.
• Reduced Spoilage and Loss: Can help prevent spoilage and loss of agricultural products due to oxygen-deficient environments. By maintaining optimal oxygen levels, ODMs can help preserve the freshness and quality of crops, feed, and other agricultural products.
• Cost Savings: Can help reduce costs associated with spoilage, loss, and regulatory compliance. Early detection of low oxygen levels can prevent damage or loss, reducing costs associated with product replacement or disposal.

Our ALPHA OMEGA INSTRUMENT S™Series 1300™ Oxygen Monitor is also designed for ease of use and can be integrated into various processes, including continuous monitoring and control of oxygen levels in tanks, fermenters, and other production equipment. Its compact size and durability make it suitable for use in harsh industrial environments, including those found in the food and beverage industry.

In agriculture, measuring oxygen levels in silos, storage facilities, and animal confinement facilities is crucial for maintaining the quality and safety of agricultural products. Our OXY-SEN™ Oxygen Monitor is designed to accurately measure oxygen levels in the range of 0-25% in a variety of applications, including agricultural environments.  It is easy to use and can be integrated into various agricultural processes, including monitoring oxygen levels in silos and storage facilities, measuring soil oxygen levels for plant growth, and monitoring oxygen levels in animal confinement facilities. Its compact size and durability make it suitable for use in harsh agricultural environments.