The problem: The majority of the urban population in Africa uses on-site sanitation systems which pose a threat to groundwater quality and safety. The monitoring of water quality in such environments needs to be made easier and cheaper.
The approach: Design a prototype biosensor for testing and development in Tanzania.
Key findings: A biosensor has been designed and tested in the laboratory. Initial results are encouraging. The next step is to field-test the device.
Where? Tanzania
Consortium grant? No.
Principal Investigator: Dr Sharon Velasquez-Orta, Newcastle University
Research Team:
- David Werner, Newcastle University
- Claire Furlong, Newcastle University
- Shaaban Mgana, Ardhi University
- Nyamboge Chacha, Ardhi University
Research Organisations:
Find out more:
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- PDF summary:
- Velasquez-Orta SB, Werner D, Varia J, Mgana S. (2017) Microbial fuel cells for inexpensive continuous in-situ monitoring of groundwater quality. Water Research 2017, 117, 9-17.
- “Continuous monitoring of water quality using an in situ microbial fuel cell” by Dr Sharon Velazquez-Orta at International Conference on Geology, Mining, Mineral and Groundwater Resources, 11-13 July 2017, Livingstone, Zambia
- Mgana, S. (2016) “Potentials of Inexpensive Microbial Fuel Cell In-situ Application in Groundwater Quality Monitoring in Urban Settlement – Tanzania : Field Experience” at 6th Africa Water Week, Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania
- Velasquez Orta, S. (2015) “Academia contribution to WASHCase Study: Evaluating an inexpensive biosensor to detect anthropogenic pollution in river water and groundwater” at 2015 UN Water Annual Conference, Zaragoza
- UPGro Catalyst Researcher recognised as a leading ‘Innovator under 35’ by MIT Technology Review
UPGro - African Groundwater 2020 
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