Technologies for Ocean Sensing

ended

TechOceanS will produce and demonstrate in multiple underwater vehicles, 9 new technologies enabling a step change in ocean biology, chemistry and plastic observation. The technologies include 5 sensors, two imaging systems, a sampler and a new image processing method using Artificial Intelligence (AI) that enables data compression and transmission of information about key variables from the remote ocean. All the systems are robust and submersible to >2000 m and collectively measure at least 63% (12/19) of priority Biogeochemical and Biology and Ecosystems “Essential Ocean Variables (EOVs)” and at least 53% (39/73) of these EOV’s sub-variables. The systems also measure litter, plastics, biotoxins, parasites, pathogens and organic pollutants of relevance to the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD) as well as fisheries, aquaculture and offshore industries. The sensors include: i) an in situ analyser for Nucleic Acids (DNA and RNA) including eDNA for quantifying species and genes; Lab on a chip (LOC) sensors that will sense ii) nutrients and the carbonate EOVs; and iii) organic contaminants and toxins detected with recombinant antibodies; iv) a primary productivity sensor using time resolved fluorescence; and v) a micro (LOC) cytometer for microorganisms and microplastics. The imaging systems will demonstrate the new image workflow and target benthic (seabed) and pelagic (water column) biology and plastic. The sampler collects up to 1000 particle samples and can be used for plastics, microorganisms and eDNA for later analysis (e.g. sequencing of nucleic acids.) TechOceanS will demonstrate technologies at two sites (Naples, Gran Canaria) for science, aquaculture, fisheries, regulator and industrial users. The project will both develop and use best practices, and will collaborate and disseminate widely with stakeholders and the international community including by hosting training events on ocean observing technologies. TechOceanS expects to commercialise the technologies resulting from this project.