By Kalwinder KaurJun 22 2012
Membrane Instruments and Technology (MINT), a Nanyang Technological University (NTU) spin-off company, has introduced Memshield, a 3-in-one water quality monitoring system. The novel monitoring system can help water companies reduce the costs involved in water monitoring operations by two-thirds.
(L-R) MINT MD Dr Adrian Yeo and technical officer Mr David Tan with Memshield 3
Monitoring of water quality involves three important processes – identification of contaminants and bacteria, detection of broken membrane filters, and identification of broken filters. MINT’s Memshield system is able to perform these processes through a single device. The system features a Membrane Integrity Sensor, which enables effective monitoring of the membrane systems.
In order to comply with global standards specified by organizations such as the United States Environmental Protection Agency, plants that treat water using membrane technology must perform the three functions. Presently, the three processes are being done individually, involving more manpower and cost.
The Environment & Water Industry Programme Office’s (EWI) Tech Pioneer Scheme is providing funds for this technology. The Singapore National Research Foundation is supporting the development through its Environmental & Water Technologies Strategic Research Programme.
Memshield units cost around $10,000 and around 10 units will be needed for a plant with a processing capacity of 200,000 m3 of water. The company has sold units to companies in Australia and France, which will contribute to the estimated $1 million revenue for the year.
Singapore’s national water agency, PUB, is testing the Memshield system at Chestnut Avenue Waterworks and Bedok Waterworks. The system will be highlighted at the Singapore International Water Week to be held at the Sands Expo & Convention Center in Marina Bay Sands, in July this year.
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