Making blood analysis cheaper and faster because the sample carrier costs much less and is more sensitive — that is what Irubis (formerly ATR Elements). In addition to blood analysis, there are other applications for the sample carrier, such as the analysis of liquid hazardous substances, chemicals, and food.
They recently took second place in Phase 2 of the business plan competitionThe founders Anja Müller, Alexander Geissler and Lorenz Sykora revealed in an interview.
- Who are you and what do you do? Please briefly introduce yourself and your product!
Irubis is Anja Müller (25, physicist), Lorenz Sykora (28, physicist) and Alexander Geißler (28, businessman). We manufacture and distribute a novel sample carrier for ATR infrared spectroscopyThis technology has been used for many years in laboratory analysis for the analysis of a wide variety of materials and substances.
A key technical element is the sample carrier. This is usually made of diamond and costs approximately €4,000. Our innovation is a cost-effective sample carrier made of microstructured silicon; in the long term, it should cost less than €10. This makes disposable use feasible and eliminates cleaning. Furthermore, signal amplification of up to 100 times is achieved.
With these properties, the sample carrier is ideal for blood analysis. Disposable use ensures the necessary hygiene, signal amplification enables more precise diagnostics, and the surface structuring reduces the required sample volume to a single drop.
- But that's been around for a long time!
In fact, silicon sample carriers already exist. However, these cost several hundred euros and have poor optical properties. We use processes from semiconductor technology—which is why they are so inexpensive—and insights from wave optics—which is why they are so sensitive—to create this unique sample carrier.
- What has been your biggest challenge so far?
The most challenging part at the moment is the production of the sample carriers. Unfortunately, there are no chip manufacturers in southern Germany that can produce our sample carriers on a contract basis. Therefore, we have now relocated to Denmark for prototype production.
- Let’s get to the point: How is business going?
We have a number of pilot customers, especially in the blood analysis sector. Interest is highest in this area. However, our industry is very secretive, so we are also reluctant to share information at this point.
- What does Munich mean to you?
The startup scene in Munich is very large and highly professional. Especially in the area of high-tech startups, everything is available: highly qualified employees, expertise, capital, and, last but not least, Munich offers a very high quality of life. Lorenz and Alex also studied here at the TU.
- How can your startup become the next unicorn? Or will we see you soon at Epic Fail Night?
Ultimately, our customers will decide. In the field of blood analysis, we do have a strong unique selling point and very high customer value. However, we strive for growth based on sustainability and scientific facts—not the highest possible company valuation. We want to move more than just money.
- Helles or Prosecco?
Light 😉
