Building the sensing layer for biomanufacturing
InSpek is building the photonic sensing infrastructure that makes biological and chemical processes visible, controllable, and scalable — from lab-scale development to industrial production.
Why traditional monitoring breaks at scale
Industrial processes, especially biological ones, are dynamic, complex, and constantly evolving. But most measurement systems were not designed for this reality.InSpek’s technology originates from advanced research in photonics and multiparameter sensing.
They rely on:
- Intermittent sampling
- Offline analysis
- Fragmented sensors
- Delayed data
You cannot observe continuous processes with discontinuous measurements.
A new approach to process visibility
InSpek’s technology originates from advanced research in photonics and multiparameter sensing.
At its core, the system combines:
- Photonic integrated sensing
- Molecular spectroscopy (including Raman)
- Multiparameter sensing capabilities for Critical Process Parameters
All integrated into a compact, scalable system.
From measurement to understanding
This architecture changes how processes are monitored and controlled.
Instead of:
- Sparse data points
- Delayed feedback
- Fragmented insight
- Better data changes how processes are run.
You get:
- Continuous visibility
- Real-time feedback
- Integrated process understanding
Raman sensor
Uses inelastic light scattering to analyze molecular composition — what and how much of it is inside a bioprocess. Provides non-invasive, real-time data on metabolites, nutrients and byproducts, reducing the need for offline sampling.
pH sensor
Measures how acidic or basic the medium is. A shift in pH can slow growth or even kill cells. Cells need a stable and specific pH to function properly — enzyme activity, nutrient solubility and metabolic reactions all depend on it.
Biomass sensor
Tracks the turbidity and the number of cells in the culture. Detects changes in optical density or capacitance, giving real-time data on growth dynamics. Helps regulate nutrient supply and detect culture health changes.
O₂ sensor
Measures dissolved oxygen. Aerobic fermentations require accurate oxygen monitoring — if levels drop too low, respiration slows, leading to reduced energy production and possible metabolic stress. Proper oxygenation maintains cell viability and productivity.
Temperature sensor
Maintains thermal stability. Heat fluctuations affect enzyme function, membrane integrity and reaction rates. Bioprocesses require strict temperature control to ensure optimized metabolic activity.
CO₂ sensor
Monitors carbon dioxide, a key byproduct of metabolism. Excess CO₂ alters pH and affects cellular respiration. Controlling CO₂ prevents shifts that lower productivity.
Multiple sensors, on one optical chip
InSpek sensors combine established optical methods, such as Raman spectroscopy, with integrated photonics. The platform supports six sensor types on one chip: Raman, pH, Biomass, O₂, Temperature, and CO₂.
Designed for real process environments.
Integrated photonics. Optical systems built directly onto semiconductor chips — brings the same gains to sensing that chip integration brought to electronics: smaller size, lower cost, and higher performance, at a level of manufacturing maturity enabled by mass semiconductor production.
The benefits of waveguide-enhanced Raman spectroscopy
Raman spectroscopy is a proven analytical method. Quantitative, highly specific, and compatible with aqueous media. It requires no sample preparation and works directly in-line, in real time.
InSpek integrates it onto a photonic chip — waveguide-enhanced Raman spectroscopy, or WERS — which changes what's possible compared to traditional free-space Raman probes.
Hardware is the entry. Data is the leverage. Intelligence is the multiplier.
Backed by leading investors and research partners
Talk to the InSpek team
Today: real-time multiparameter monitoring.
Next: integrated interpretation across parameters. Future: predictive models and autonomous optimisation.
Frequently asked questions
Quick answers to common questions about InSpek.
What does InSpek actually do?
InSpek provides real-time multiparameter monitoring inside industrial processes. The system delivers continuous, in-line data on what is happening inside the process — enabling earlier detection of deviations, better process understanding, and tighter control.
How is this different from traditional monitoring?
Traditional monitoring relies on intermittent sampling, offline lab analysis, and delayed results. InSpek replaces this with continuous, in-line measurement and high-frequency, high-quality data. The result: earlier insight, faster decisions, and better outcomes.
What parameters can you measure?
Today, InSpek focuses on real-time multiparameter monitoring of metabolites and chemical compounds. The roadmap expands toward additional critical process parameters including pH, dissolved oxygen, temperature, and biomass — all integrated within a unified sensing architecture.
How do we get started?
We typically begin with a discussion of your process and objectives, identification of the most relevant parameters, and a pilot or proof-of-concept. Get in touch to scope a conversation.