Development of a Low-Cost SIA-Based Analyser for Water Samples

Abstract

An automated multiparametric water analyser was developed and evaluated. The system was based on Sequential Injection Analysis and featured a photometric detection system comprising a tricolour RGB LED source and a photodiode. A program compiled in Visual Basic was used to control the SIA flow system, the LEDs, and the data acquisition and processing. The program loads and executes methods written in ASCII and stored as text files. The system was capable of handling up to four methods simultaneously. When used to carry out methods based on the APHA standard methods, the figures of merit obtained were considered satisfactory for the purpose. The total cost was under US $4600. It was concluded that the analyser is appropriate for routine use and has potential for an increased number of simultaneous methods and for enhanced capabilities if new versions of the software are developed.

CocoSoft: educational software for automation in the analytical chemistry laboratory

“…Failures related to inaccurate hardware timing are thus avoided. This is in fact seen as the main drawback of other custom-made software packages [8].…”

“…Several approaches toward dedicated software packages for the control of instrumental equipment and/or data acquisition have been published over the past few years. Notwithstanding the fact that the reported software packages are open-source and allow for a 'hands on' startup, they are still deemed to be directed to specific hardware [8][9][10][11][12], rely upon predefined libraries [13], and even if algorithms or communication protocols are known, the addition of new hardware is not straightforward and requires manufacturer's assistance [14][15][16]. Available open-source software packages also bear limited options for data processing, making the implementation of feedback protocols in analytical methods cumbersome, jeopardizing the development of fully automated smart methods.…”

Sequential injection system with multi-parameter analysis capability for water quality measurement

“…A low-cost colorimeter based on light-emitting diode (LED) as light source [12][13][14] and light dependent resistor (LDR) as light sensor was fabricated. The LED/LDR colorimetric detection is inexpensive and portable analytical equipment.…”