Polymer technology

^PolyBIND®

The separation and enrichment of cells and microorganisms from large sample volumes, viscous and solid-laden liquids are problematic for diagnostics in beverage microbiology. A newly developed process makes it possible for the first time to isolate microorganisms quickly and easily. The filtration or centrifugation methods used to date are time-consuming or fail completely. The detection of strictly anaerobic microorganisms such as Pectinatus and Megasphaera becomes safer and more sensitive through the use of a closed anaerobic system (http://www.rschuett.de).

Numerous cells and microorganisms show fixed or reversible binding to ionic surfaces. Consequently, surfaces with a suitable chemical structure, such as polymers, can be used very efficiently to bind cells. Polymers are ideally suited for the targeted adjustment of surface properties.

In collaboration with the Fraunhofer Institute for Applied Polymer Research, special polymer particles have been developed which, thanks to their functionalized surfaces, are able to efficiently bind bacteria, yeasts, fungi and viruses regardless of the sample type and quantity.

This makes it possible to adsorb microorganisms from a large sample volume and then analyze or cultivate them directly. This drastically increases the statistical probability of detecting trace contamination.

The process was developed and validated in collaboration with Bitburger Braugruppe GmbH. The system was tested with Lactobacilli, Pediococcus, Pectinatus, Megasphaera and yeasts. The detection limit is 10 – 100 cells / quantity tested, regardless of the type of container.

Application:

• For continuous sampling of large sample volumes after EC filtration
• In bottled products of all container types
• In liquids that are difficult and impossible to filter, such as milk, red wine, juices, etc.
• For the disinfection of liquids

Principle:

• Binding of microorganisms present in a liquid to the polymer
• Cultivation of the bound microorganisms or direct analysis of the polymer

Advantages:

• Detection of trace contamination through the use of large sample volumes
• Closed anaerobic system
• Detection in non-filterable or difficult to filter beverages
• No membrane filtration required
• Easy handling
• Method can be used in the online process