Fiber optic sensor for nitrates in water

Brian D. MacCraith; J. Maxwell

doi:10.1117/12.47138

1 September 1991 Fiber optic sensor for nitrates in water

Brian D. MacCraith, J. Maxwell

Proceedings Volume 1510, Chemical and Medical Sensors; (1991) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.47138
Event: ECO4 (The Hague '91), 1991, The Hague, Netherlands

Abstract

Recent emphasis on compliance with national and EC directions on water quality has created a requirement for real-time in-situ monitoring techniques such as provided by fiber optic sensing technology. Health risks associated with high concentrations of nitrate ion in drinking water demand regular monitoring of this species. Preliminary results from a simple fiber optic sensor for continuous monitoring of NO3- in water are reported. The sensor is based on the absorbance of UV-radiation in the 200nm region. Dual- or multi-wavelength referencing is used to compensate for non-measured related signal losses. Good quality UV- transmitting optical fibers enable remote operation of the device. The sensor performance is linear over the range 0-20 mgN per liter with a resolution better than 1mgN per liter. The sensor is particularly suitable for rapid on-line testing of compliance in the region of the EC guide (5.6 mgN per liter) and maximum (11.3 mgN per liter) levels. Proposed developments of this device are reported.

Citation Download Citation

Brian D. MacCraith and J. Maxwell "Fiber optic sensor for nitrates in water", Proc. SPIE 1510, Chemical and Medical Sensors, (1 September 1991); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.47138

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