Zurich – In her doctoral thesis at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich, Jessica Droujko developed a sensor to measure the water quality of rivers. Droujko wants to contribute to intelligent and sustainable water management with her start-up Riverkin.
In her doctoral thesis at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich (ETH), Jessica Droujko developed a sensor that can be used to measure and evaluate the quality of river water. In contrast to conventional measuring stations, the ETH researcher's sensor can be installed easily and flexibly, the ETH explains in a press release. In addition, the robust and energy-saving device can measure up to 20 grams of sediment per liter of water.
"Rivers are very lively and unpredictable ecosystems," Droujko is quoted as saying in the press release. "Water parameters often change abruptly during heavy rainfall or when water is discharged from power plants." This is why "a large but precise measuring range" is needed, says the researcher.
Droujko laid the foundations for her own company with her doctoral thesis. Her start-up Riverkin, based in Zurich, aims to measure water quality and analyze the water data obtained for potential customers. Droujko is initially focusing on the hydropower sector. Step by step, however, Riverkin also wants to offer services for mining, agriculture and irrigation.
Riverkin's data can also be used to measure biodiversity with the help of artificial intelligence. Many of these young companies "use satellite images, but have no local data," explains Droujko. "We can help out here and offer additional added value." ce/hs