A NEW device for detecting major pollutants in UK rivers is being developed by Pontypool-based biotech company, Applied Enzyme Technology (AET).

Based on a handheld sensor, the system is designed to detect the presence of the contaminant ammonia, which enters rivers from farms, sewage and industry.

It has been developed in partnership with AET's sister company, Gwent Electronic Materials, and the Environment Agency.

The goal is to help improve the nation's water quality and add some pennies to AET's balance sheet.

AET managing director Dr Guido Drago said: "We won a biowise award from the DTI to take this device from research to manufacture.

"There are other means of testing for ammonia but the sensitivity is greater in our device, resulting in a more precise reading.

"When tested in a laboratory, it worked very effectively within the parameters outlined by the Environment Agency."

AET is working with ExportAssist, the WalesTrade International initiative, to target overseas markets.

Dr Drago said: "This is definitely a global product. Legislation on pollution is becoming more stringent worldwide and with ExportAssist we are looking at markets in the Far East and the US.

"The Environment Agency is currently helping Poland meet water quality requirements in line with the EU directive on pollution, so this is another avenue for us."

Chris Sweet, export development counsellor for Torfaen, said: "Clearly if the Environment Agency in the UK is so attracted by this product, then its potential in overseas markets is also significant.

"Improving water quality is a global issue."

Around £8.6m is being spent on ExportAssist by WalesTrade International.

The cash is coming partly from Objective One funds and will be spent over three years in the provision of guidance to small and medium-sized companies in Objective One regions.

For more information on the programme go online at www.export-assist.com.

Alternatively, call Alyson Llewellyn on 01443 846 728.