The HydroMetrics GW50 Nitrate Sensor is an instrument used for assessing the nitrate content in groundwater or surface water. It is designed to be deployed into a narrow aperture with a minimum width of 50mm. Optimum performance is achieved when testing clear water with low concentrations of dissolved organic matter. This tool operates by employing an advanced sampling method, which enables the accurate measurement of nitrate concentration levels. By providing a precise indication of nitrate content, this tool can be used in scientific research, agricultural applications, and environmental assessments to help manage nitrate levels for the purpose of protecting water quality.
The introduction of nitrate regulation in freshwater and groundwater by several countries has led scientists to seek alternative methods for determining nitrate concentrations. Costly measurement procedures have been the primary challenge hampering direct measurement of these nitrate concentrations. Modelling has emerged as an alternative approach to measure the quantity of nitrates entering water bodies in the absence of direct measurement. However, it remains an imperfect solution. In a bid to provide a more affordable alternative, Lincoln Agritech has developed a monitoring well reactor which allows for the direct measurement of nitrate concentrations. By uncovering a cost-effective and efficient means of measuring the level of nitrates in water resources, this innovation will ultimately help manage nitrate release into water bodies.
The present instrument is designed to assess nitrate concentration in groundwater. It is applicable in scenarios where there is low organic carbon or chloride presence and can be facilely set up in small wells, leveraging exclusively solar energy. The presence of remote data-logging capabilities enables the obtention of real-time data for analysis. This tool boasts a low-cost and is versatile with the possibility of use in several environments. An outstanding feature is the elongated service period with only periodic cleaning requirements rather than frequent calibration procedures as some other instruments would require. The durability afforded makes this device ideal for long-term, continuous, and unattended deployment in various agricultural settings. Hence, the sum of these attributes underscores its suitability in providing a reliable monitoring system compared to traditional laboratory analysis.
Measurement technology (light source) | Xenon flash |
Measurement principle | UV Absorbance |
Measurement cell | 8 mm |
Parameter | NO3-N |
Measurement range | 0 – 50 mg/L (without measurement cell alteration) |
Measurement accuracy | +/- 5% +0.1 mg N/L (against standards) |
Turbidity compensation | Yes |
Data logger | ~ 16 GB internal storage |
Measurement interval | ≥ 1 min |
Housing material | 316 stainless steel |
Dimensions (ø x L) | 42.2 mm x 455 mm |
Weight | 3.44 kg (including 10 m of cable) |
Interface | SDI-12 / RS-232 |
Power consumption | < 100 mW |
Power supply | 11.5 – 15.5 V |
Guarantee | 1 year |
Max pressure | 2.0 bar as standard |