Optical Sensing Technology

BCSI has developed a novel and proprietary method for non-invasively monitoring the pH of platelets inside storage bags. BCSI’s optical sensing technology is incorporated directly into storage bags so that measurements are be taken multiple times with no sampling required.

The company’s pH SAFE System consists of a storage bag with the incorporated optical sensor and fluorometer that measures light emissions. The pH SAFE SENSOR has unique properties- as you shine a light on the sensor, it emits light. This light changes in color and intensity as the biochemical components inside the bag change composition over time.

pH SAFE READER

pH Sensor Technology

The pH SAFE READER measures the fluorescent light intensity of the sensor membrane by shining an excitation light through the transparent window of the pH SAFE SENSOR. The pH-sensitive membrane glow in the pH SAFE READER measures two emission wavelengths and takes a ratio of the two light intensities. This ratio is then used to calculate the pH value inside the bag. The reading is not affected by different colors of plasma, including those containing excessive fat, or with high red blood cell counts, or contraceptives.

Because the optical sensing technology allows non-invasive monitoring of the health of platelets, continuous multiple read monitoring is achieved while maintaining bag sterility.

ph1000: pH Measured Over Time

BCSI pH100 tracks pH accurately over days

Four sterile BCSI platelet storage bags with pH detecting inserts were equipped with septum adapters to allow daily (invasive) analysis with a Bayer Rapidlab blood gas analyzer. BCSI’s non-invasive pH readings were consistent with the blood gas readings. The mean difference from average pH determined by both methods was 0.045 (n=32, SD 0.058).

BCSI pH SAFE READER tracks accurately over time

Scientific Publications

There are a number of scientific journal articles about the pH SAFE system (also known as the pH1000). These include:

Additional poster abstracts from various technical meetings have been presented on the pH SAFE system. Please email a request for the list of posters or specific poster reprints.

Products are not yet available in North America.