Bio-capacitance probe system

The National Research Council of Canada is soliciting a four-probe bio-capacitance measurement system designed for real-time monitoring of cell cultures in up to four bioreactors simultaneously. The system must enable continuous, multi-frequency scanning to capture the capacitance distribution spectrum of living cells, allowing for the real-time derivation of critical bioprocess parameters including viable cell concentration, cell size, internal conductivity, and critical frequency through analysis of β-dispersion using the Cole–Cole α model. The probes must be compatible with the variety of bioreactor types currently in use, ensuring seamless integration across existing infrastructure. The system must support dual communication protocols: OPC-UA for data exchange with control and data acquisition systems and 4–20 mA analog output to allow direct integration into closed-loop process control. This ensures that real-time bio-capacitance data can immediately inform and adjust bioreactor operations without reliance on external software or manual intervention. The procurement is open under solicitation number 26-58103 with responses due by August 24, 2026, and is managed by Daniel Rusthoven, Contracting Authority at the Government of Canada.