OUR TECHNOLOGY
ExactBlue®’s nanotech platform uses functionalized nanoparticles that attach to viable cells and produce a change that can be observed.
Using our proprietary sample preparation methods, we can currently achieve detection limits required for pharmaceutical and medical water quality, and can easily meet drinking and recreational water testing requirements.
Our nanotechnology detects more bacteria than common nutrient tests, including pathogens such as Legionella and Mycobacteria. Slow-growing bacteria show up in minutes.
The Nanotech Difference
Nanotechnology | Culturing Test Method |
Nanoparticles act like antibodies, they actively search for bacteria cells and attach themselves to them | Try to attract and feed bacteria until they form colonies large enough to be counted |
Do not wait for bacteria to be attracted to them | Not all bacteria are attracted to the same food/media and not all grow at the same speed |
Results are accurate | Results can be highly underestimated |
ENZYME-BASED TESTS
Enzyme-based tests detect bacterial contamination in water by identifying specific enzymes produced by bacteria. These tests use substrates that react with the enzymes to produce a detectable signal, like a color change. Common enzymes targeted include β-glucuronidase (for E. coli) and β-galactosidase (for coliforms).
When bacteria are present, the enzyme breaks down the substrate, producing a signal (often a color change), indicating contamination. These tests are fast, specific, and easy to perform