Rapid analysis of bacterial contamination of tap water using isothermal calorimetry

▸ Calorimetry was applied to monitor bacterial contamination in tap water. ▸ The method allowed faster contaminant detection than conventional methods. ▸ Theoretical considerations show that calorimetry is superior to colony detection. ▸ Quantification of the contaminant was also possible with the new method. ▸ Heat signals were characteristic for the combination of strain, medium and conditions.