Noninvasive Online Biomass Monitoring System for Shaker Flasks Using Backward Scattered Light

A noninvasive optical sensor system for monitoring cell growth was designed using Arduino UNO R3 microprocessor board with the aim to obtain online measurements of biomass concentration in shaker flasks which are commonly used in biological laboratories. The optical measurement of backward scattered light at 135° is triggered in response to the angular position of the shaker flask. Stable sensor signals equivalent to optical density can be obtained with a single trigger angle over a wide range of shaking frequencies and filling volumes. The sensor system has therefore a wide application potential for laboratory processes in biotechnology and genetic engineering.