Lab-on-a-chip: the future in water quality detection

Abstract

Lab-on-a-chip is the apparatus that can perform one or more laboratory analyses utilizing an electronic chip of a few square millimeters or centimeters. The full term is ‘microelectromechanical system’. Other terms used are ‘Micro Total Analysis Systems’ and “Microfluidics”. In microbiology these systems combine molecular techniques with electronic sensors. Major advantages are that they allow microbiological tests in situ (out in the field), use small amount of test material (water) and give immediate readings. They should offer, additionally small operating costs, sensitivity, good performance in harsh conditions and simplicity in function.