PrimePrevention: Technical developments

As part of PrimePrevention WP2, a flow-through absorption sensor is being developed at the Institute of Chemistry and Biology of the Marine Environment at the University of Oldenburg. This “Hyperspectral Module” exploits the fact that the absorption of a water sample depends on the type and concentration of its constituents, including the phytoplankton pigments. Some pigments are specific for certain phytoplankton groups and generate absorption fingerprints that can be obtained by hyperspectral measurements, i.e. high spectral resolution over the entire visible light spectrum. The sensor uses the principle of a reflective tube in order to minimize effects caused by light scattering. By the flow through approach through this tube, a high temporal resolution is achieved together with the high spectral resolution. The hyperspectral module is intended to be used as a compact system at different locations (ships, fixed platforms). As part of PrimePrevention's SmartSampling, it will be used to detect cyanobacteria and trigger more complex measurements such as eDNA analysis.

Schematic Overview of the Hyperspectral Module. Figure: ICBM