A Remote Monitoring System for the Detection of Nitrates and Nitrites in Groundwater
DOE Phase II Contract DE-FG02-03ER83867
This program will address development of a new method for electrochemical monitoring of nitrate and nitrite in water. Nitrate contamination in groundwater and surface water is a widespread problem within the DOE complex. The proposed monitoring system offers a reliable, long-term detection scenario for evaluation and remediation of nitrate contamination.
The overall objective of the Phase II program will be to develop a compact, portable, low-cost monitoring system for nitrate and nitrite in water based on a novel approach to electrochemical monitoring which involves using robust, screen-printed electrodes which can specifically detect nitrite and a simple, microfluidic sampling system for combined detection of both nitrite and nitrate.
During Phase I, we fabricated miniaturized sensors on a chip, proved the technical feasibility of the detection method, and characterized the sensor under a variety of conditions including analyte concentration, pH, electrode potential, and electrolyte type. Sensitivity and detection limit for the amperometric method were compared to standard nitrate/nitrite detection methods.
During Phase II, the methods and apparatus proven feasible in Phase I will be refined and optimized to produce a robust, sensitive system for reliable monitoring of nitrite and nitrate in water. The system will exploit microelectrode technology and a novel approach to electrochemical monitoring to produce an effective and cost efficient long-term and remote monitoring solution for these contaminants.
Electrochemical detection of nitrite/nitrate in water provides a low-cost, portable avenue to on-site, in situ testing for industrial and personal environmental evaluations. Technology to emerge from this program will find application in drinking water and wastewater analysis, process effluent analysis, agricultural applications, and environmental remediation.