Detection of EPS

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This work will result in the development of a new single molecule fluorescence sensor or extracellular**polymeric substance (EPS) which is a biofilm forming residue that can contain microbial cultures. This work**will have widespread interest in domestic water supplies, industrial wastewater, industrial fluid transfer**processes, and in wastewater treatment. In collaboration with LuminUltra Technologies Ltd, experimental**development and evaluation will be conducted in the research lab of Prof Blight at the University of New**Brunswick and conducted by one graduate student and one research assistant. We will 1) develop a single**molecule fluorescent sensor for EPS; 2) we will test at UNB on comparable materials such as dextrose and**amylopectin; 3) we will then test EPS in the research quarters, on-site at LuminUltra Technologies. There will**be a five-fold benefit to Canada when this collaboration proves successful: 1) Public Safety - benefit of early**detection of biofilm scaffolds that support harmful microbial deposition of domestic water infrastructure; 2)**Infrastructure retention - prevention of MIC and the 'dolomite problem' will extend the lifespan (cost savings)**of domestic water infrastructure; 3) Industry - many industries require microbes for some production process**and/or must prevent microbe growth for others. Our technology will allow rapid detection for biofilm**deposition prevention (safety and cost savings); 4) Science Impact - a product of this type, developed in**Canada, will make a significant impact on profile of Canadian Science; 5) Economy - the global addressable**market for this product is $1.3 billion worldwide, with potential use in any country, and being both developed**and produced in Canada furthers this impact.