Measurement Challenges with Optical Dissolved Oxygen Sensors
Why does accurate dissolved oxygen measurement remain challenging in bioprocesses?
Dissolved oxygen (DO) is a Critical Process Parameter (CPP) in bioprocessing and a primary driver of cell growth, metabolism, and productivity. As a result, optical dissolved oxygen sensors have become the predominant technology for dissolved oxygen monitoring in bioreactors.
However, while much attention is given to dissolved oxygen control strategies, far less focus is placed on the accuracy and reliability of dissolved oxygen measurements themselves. In practice, calibration errors, sensor ageing, photobleaching, and repeated SIP/CIP exposure can introduce systematic measurement deviations that remain undetected during routine operation.
This white paper examines the origins of challenges in dissolved oxygen measurement, how they manifest in real bioprocess environments, and what must be considered to ensure reliable measurements with optical dissolved oxygen sensors.
Why should you download our white paper?
Download our white paper to understand why dissolved oxygen measurement remains challenging in bioprocesses, and how optical dissolved oxygen sensors address these challenges when properly implemented and maintained.
In this white paper, you will learn:
- Why is accurate dissolved oxygen measurement inherently difficult in bioprocesses
- Which factors influence dissolved oxygen measurement reliability during real processes
- How optical dissolved oxygen sensors work and what affects their performance
- What calibration and operational considerations improve confidence in DO data
- Why is measurement accuracy especially critical in GMP‑regulated manufacturing
Common Challenges of Dissolved Oxygen Measurement
Calibration‑Related Influences
Accurate dissolved oxygen measurement depends on proper calibration under well‑defined conditions. Variations in temperature, pressure, and humidity during calibration can introduce deviations that affect subsequent DO readings in the bioprocess.
Sensor Response and Photophysical Effects
Optical dissolved oxygen sensors rely on luminescent materials whose response characteristics can change over time due to photobleaching or chemical exposure. Understanding these effects is essential for interpreting the stability of long‑term dissolved oygen measurements.
Impact of SIP, CIP, and Long‑Term Operation
Repeated sterilization-in-place (SIP) and cleaning‑in‑place (CIP) cycles, combined with extended process durations, place additional demands on DO measurement systems. These conditions can influence sensor behaviour and must be considered when evaluating measurement reliability in GMP environments.
