For almost twenty years now, microLAN has been mapping out the quality of drinking, waste and surface water for clients at home and abroad. It develops specific techniques to determine and monitor the presence of algae, bacteria (as an indicator of viruses) and (bio)chemicals in water. There is a growing demand for early warning systems, which partly make time-consuming and expensive laboratory research superfluous.
Since 2003, MicroLAN has been developing monitoring techniques in relation to biological and biochemical water quality. Because of the focus on Algen, Bacters and bioChemia (toxins), director-owner Joep Appels often speaks of the ABC for water quality. Via the indicator bacterium E. coli, even viruses that can spread diseases via sewage water are closely monitored.
Long relationship
MicroLAN has been working closely with Sendot since 2005. This makes it one of the sensor manufacturer's oldest relationships. Appels: “Sendot is very strong in optical sensors, which are particularly valuable to our 'ABC' . We work with, among other things, light and fluorescence measurements. And just like us, the company is very focused on innovation and smart technology.”
Increasing demand for technology
“Our country has a global top reputation in water management. There is a lot of demand for Dutch know-how, including ours,” explains the water technologist. In recent years, the demand for technology in the water market has increased sharply. As a result, the Appels team is busier than ever. The entrepreneur has made good use of the travel time that has become available due to the corona pandemic – several months on an annual basis – by strengthening ties with the home market and developing new initiatives.
Domestic initiatives
In collaboration with a research laboratory and consultancy that is active for water boards, governments and companies, a project was set up in 2020 for online monitoring of surface water in the city of Breda and a number of projects to better map the nitrate problem in the Brabant countryside. . Sensors, including those from Sendot, are indispensable.
“We have installed measurement platforms with modems and sensors for continuous measurement in canals, ditches and puddles,” explains the entrepreneur. “We use this to monitor several quality parameters. The measured values are transmitted wirelessly and processed via the internet. An app is now being developed for the Municipality of Breda, which offers the population insight into the current water quality at the various locations. There is a need for this, especially in the summer period, when there is a lot of recreation in and on the water.”
New adventure in the Middle East
Such projects appeal to stakeholders, the entrepreneur notices from new project applications. microLAN and Sendot are now preparing a major research project for an oil company in the Middle East. Bacterial measurements of the rinse water in the pipes are central to this. “In that region, every drop of fresh water counts, so our work will undoubtedly be monitored critically,” expects Appels. “We have known each other so long and well that I have every confidence to embark on this new adventure together with Sendot.”