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Revolution in water: New photometers ensure measurements for research
Find out how Bremen researchers are developing cost-effective, precise photometers to measure nutrients in seawater.
Revolution in water: New photometers ensure measurements for research
In Bremen, the “Experimental Aquaculture” working group at the Leibniz Center for Tropical Marine Research (ZMT) has produced an innovative solution to the challenges of nutrient measurements in seawater. As Laborjournal reports, there is an urgent need for accurate measurements of phosphate, nitrate and ammonium. Traditional drip testing proves inadequate to achieve the required statistically significant results, and the high cost of professional field photometers is prohibitive for smaller research groups.
As part of a project in Vietnam, the development of cost-effective and precise photometers for field use is being advanced. Conventional tests are compared, such as the HACH DR3900, which is expensive and complex, and the new IO Rodeo Open Colorimeter, which was developed by Jo Long and Will Dickson. Initial results show that there are no significant differences in measurement accuracy between these devices. A remarkable correlation coefficient of 0.999 underlines the high quality of the Open Colorimeter.
The Open Colorimeter in focus
The Open Colorimeter, recently introduced by IO Rodeo, is a real asset for researchers, educators and hobbyists. According to Hackster, it is a 3D printed and CircuitPython-based device that is ready to use out of the box. Priced at just $160, it offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional laboratory colorimeters.
The Open Colorimeter uses light absorption to determine the concentration of analytes in liquid samples and can be used in a variety of ways thanks to modular adjustments. For example, it is possible to integrate additional analysis techniques such as fluorometric measurements or DNA analysis. Compatibility with IoT platforms and the possibility of SD card storage are also of great interest these days.
Promoting citizen science
Particular attention is paid to the use of the Open Colorimeter in school lessons and in citizen science projects. The aim is to generate valid data with minimal financial resources and to raise awareness of Open Science. As part of “Jugend-forscht” projects, students work on developing cost-effective measuring devices that are based on standard components and are ideal for comprehensive measurement campaigns.
Matthias Birkicht, founding member of ZMT, is deeply committed to developing new methods and IoT devices to revolutionize marine research and enable citizen science. This is not only an opportunity for research, but also a valuable opportunity to promote the knowledge and skills of future generations. The combination of low-cost technology and open access to information represents a significant step forward for science.
These initiatives are not only important locally, but can also have a global impact on the way data is collected and analyzed. By using open systems, they could lead to increased public participation in scientific discourse, which is also supported by Open Science.