An open-source dual-beam spectrophotometer for citizen-science-based water quality monitoring. (October 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Feng, Jiansheng; Khakipoor, Banafsheh; May, Jacob; Mulford, Melissa; Davis, Joshua; Siman, Kelly; Russell, Gabrielle; Smith, Adam W.; King, Hunter
• Is Part Of: HardwareX. Volume 10(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-10
• Subjects: Open source hardware and software -- Water quality monitoring; Scientific apparatus and instruments -- Periodicals; Laboratories -- Equipment and supplies -- Periodicals; Laboratories -- Equipment and supplies; Scientific apparatus and instruments; Periodicals; Electronic journals; 681
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ohx.2021.e00241
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2468-0672

Abstract

Graphical abstract: Abstract: Efforts to understand and mediate threats to water supplies rely on collection of reliable data at large scale, a goal which is often limited by availability of tools that are both affordable and reliable. We present here a low-cost, easy-to-use, do-it-yourself (DIY) spectrometer for measurement of a variety of relevant solute concentrations when coupled with inexpensive commercially-available reagents. Comparison of its performance with commercial options demonstrates the potential value of this device as transparent, versatile, and accurate-enough alternative for widespread application.