In modern production environments, microbial management is the key to ensuring product quality, purity, and shelf life. Whether in paper and board manufacturing, bio-based materials, or process water systems, microorganisms can enter your process unnoticed – for example, when adding starch, kaolin, or recycled fibers.
Once introduced, microbes can multiply, form biofilms, or produce unwanted odors and defects. This is especially challenging in mills that reduce water consumption or increase the share of recycled materials, where the microbial balance can easily shift. Even the quality of intake water can have a significant impact and needs to be monitored carefully.
KCL’s Microbiological Laboratory – From Detection to Understanding
KCL offers a comprehensive set of microbiological testing services that help you understand and control microbial risks throughout your process:
- ATP analysis – With this fast method you detect living microorganisms by measuring their biological activity. It shows how much viable microbial biomass is present at a given point in time.
- Total qPCR assays (quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction) – With this DNA-based method, you measure total microbial load, including both living and dead microbes. This provides valuable insight into the ratio between viable and non-viable cells and helps assess the true microbial risk.
- Specific qPCR assays and NGS (Next Generation Sequencing) – With these powerful DNA-based methods, you identify which microbial species are present at which level in your sample. Specific qPCR assays detect potential pathogens or harmful species, such as Bacillus cereus in pulp and paper processes, or Legionella in water systems while NGS reveals the total composition of the microbial community.
Together, qPCR and NGS reveal not only how much microbial activity there is, but also what kind – enabling targeted control actions and better process stability.
Turn Microbial Challenges into Process Control
KCL’s microbiological laboratory supports customers across the bioeconomy and process industries to:
- Diagnose microbial contamination sources
- Evaluate biocide efficiency and optimize treatment programs
- Monitor raw water and circulation loops
- Improve product shelf life and hygiene
With advanced DNA-based methods and industry-specific expertise, KCL helps you turn microbiological risks into manageable process parameters.