Born from a 2018 Chesapeake Bay kayaking conversation, GaiaXus Environmental Monitors makes portable water-quality sensors and the connected learning tools that put field data within reach of schools, citizen scientists, and researchers. Its Water Guardian combines laboratory-style measurement with a handheld design that can be used from a classroom bench, a shoreline, or behind a kayak, while its app and web portal help turn readings into lessons and shared environmental data. The Germantown, Maryland company serves as a bridge between water monitoring and hands-on environmental education.
LaMotte CompanyFounded in Baltimore in October 1919, LaMotte Company makes portable and laboratory water-analysis equipment for professionals, educators, and homeowners. Frank L. LaMotte began with the first domestically produced pH test kits, and the company has since developed technologies including DPD chlorine testing, electronic colorimeters, and Spin Touch systems. Based in Maryland with expanded manufacturing and R&D capacity in Delaware, LaMotte serves more than 75 countries across applications ranging from drinking water and wastewater to pools and aquaculture.CHESTERTOWN, MD
Apera Instruments, LLCSince 1991, Apera Instruments has designed and manufactured electrochemical sensors and meters that help users measure water quality, with its specialty extending from pocket testers to laboratory instruments. The company makes key components in-house, particularly its electrodes, and operates an ISO 9001:2015-certified manufacturing facility; its products are used in more than 60 countries. Apera serves everyone from researchers to hobbyist growers, including with instruments tailored to challenging samples such as pure water, viscous liquids, and high-salinity solutions.COLUMBUS, OH
YSI IncorporatedBorn from a three-man partnership at Antioch College, YSI Incorporated has been part of Yellow Springs, Ohio, since its founding in 1948. Now a Xylem Analytics brand, it is known for applying sensor technology to help environmental and industrial professionals understand water conditions, with a history that also includes pioneering life-science instruments. Its quality system is registered to ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 13485.YELLOW SPRINGS, OH
AccuStrata IncFounded in 2008 through the University of Maryland TAP program, Rockville-based AccuStrata develops custom optical spectroscopy instruments, sensors and control systems for real-time industrial and environmental monitoring. Its fiber-optic platforms combine optical measurement with predictive modeling and machine learning, while the company takes projects from early concepts through prototypes, field validation and commercialization. AccuStrata’s patented work includes AtOMS, a system for monitoring thin-film deposition and etching, and the company has developed technology for applications ranging from solar manufacturing to portable water testing.ROCKVILLE, MD