Iker García

ADVANCED OPTICAL TECHNOLOGIES S.L. (AOTECH) is a spin-off of the University of the Basque Country whose mission is to apply photonic solutions to all kinds of industrial processes. We aim to be a transversal provider of photonic solutions, so we are developing several technologies that we think may be the key to disruptive solutions in the near future. We have three product lines: spectroscopy-based devices for the food industry, chemical bath monitoring systems for the chemical industry and real-time control solutions for the water sector.

In order to increase productivity and efficiency in food production, we have developed the AONIR platform, which will allow in-line and real-time characterisation of food production, through non-destructive measurements, from the input of raw materials to the final product. AONIR consists of two main components, on the one hand, optical sensors based on near-infrared spectroscopy, and on the other hand, an IoT platform where sensor data is collected, and reports and alarms are generated.

The key component is the sensors that are installed on the production line itself and can send data regarding the chemical composition of the product or moisture, as well as monitoring of different processes, in real time to our IoT platform or directly to a PLC.  With this data, quick decisions can be made to prevent the final product from deviating from certain specifications, thus achieving a more efficient and sustainable production. In addition, we offer the development and maintenance service of predictive models, which is essential for the proper operation of the equipment.

For the chemical industry, we are developing an in-line, real-time monitoring system for chemical baths. With this measurement system it is possible to obtain in-line and in real-time the concentration of electrolytes in the baths to be analysed, specifically the concentration of nickel and copper. With this system, the state of the baths can be monitored continuously with a twofold objective. Firstly, to ensure the necessary conditions of the baths to achieve coatings of the desired quality, and secondly, to be able to take the necessary corrective measures to compensate for any deviations, which would extend the useful life of the baths and have a great impact, not only economically, but also environmentally.

Finally, in the water sector, we are developing a system that will enable in-line and real-time measurements of parameters such as COD, nitrite and nitrate concentrations, ammoniacal nitrogen, ammonium, and phosphorus. The proof of concept, developed under laboratory conditions to characterise wastewater, groundwater, surface water, and drinking water samples, is yielding promising preliminary results. These findings are particularly significant for the determination of COD and nitrates, underscoring the viability of our technology and its substantial potential for future applications in water treatment and monitoring.