Spectroscopic techniques base on light waves to detect substances and organisms in water. Due to the specific properties of the substances, a fast and reagent-free classification with inherent and apparent methods is possible.

Research focus of “Spectroscopic systems” is the development and validation of sensors, sensor systems and measurement platforms for the detection of hazardous substances in natural, as well as process water, such as water quality measurements in aquaculture or control of bilge water in the shipping industry.

For the measurement of analytes and their prescriptive limits, as well as to gain a better understanding of physical, chemical, and biological dynamics in aquatic ecosystems, a large variety of optical techniques are in use. For measurement, the inherent (depend only on properties of the medium and its constituents),  and apparent (depend on inherent properties and on the geometrical light field)  optical properties of substances and organisms are seized for the analysis. Depending on the specific properties of the target analyte and the mixture of surrounding particles, technical variables such as the general technique, wavelength, quantity of illuminance, have to be determined. Further, the SWaP”-factors (Size, Weight, and Power), antifouling measurements, need to be assured.  

For scientific, as well as for industrial employment, measurements over a large spatial and temporal scale are crucial. Spectroscopic techniques range from space- and airborne remote sensing with a large areal coverage to point measurements in situ with hand-held sensors. Large areas can be covered with sensor networks and remotely operated, and autonomous underwater vehicles.

Additional to the analysis of substances and organisms in water, “spectroscopic systems” is also concerned with sensor design and the integration of sensors in such sensor networks, and application strategies. In cooperation with the “Test station biofouling-antifouling-corrosion”, antifouling methods for sensors are developed and tested.

Core research topics include:

• Measurement of Sensor parameters in the ocean, inland water, and process water
• Optimization of aquatic measurement methods
• Surveillance systems for water quality (e.g. aquaculture, bilge water)
• Development of electro-optical sensors
• Development of novel (bio-)sensors, e.g. optodes
• Integration of sensors in sensor networks and platforms
• Consulting in sensor-design, application strategies, and antifouling
• Accompanying measurements in offshore wind parks
• Safety and security systems