The Aber Biomass Monitor is ideal for monitoring and controlling  high density E. Coli fermentations

Data from the University of Hamburg shows how the live cell concentration in a high density bacterial fermentation can be monitored with the Biomass Monitor Model 200. Subsequent work has compared the Optical density and Biomass Monitor output when the fermentation has become nutrient limiting and the growth rate has changed. At the end of the fermentation the OD rapidly increases as the cell debris and necromass rapidly accumulates but the Biomass Moniotor provides a true reflection of the live cell mass. On-line optical sensors will therefore be of little value in monitoring a complete fermentation.
A FULL COPY OF A PAPER ON USING THE BIOMASS MONITOR WITH E.COLI  IS AVAILABLE ON OUR DOWNLOADS PAGE