Analysis of Heavy Metals in Water Resources by SPX

SPX

SPX Introduces Innovative Voltammetry Technology for Reliable Analysis of Heavy Metals in Water Sources

Heavy metals such as lead, arsenic, copper and zinc, also known as trace metals, are among the most persistent contaminants causing pollution in surface waters and river waters. Discharge of high quantities of heavy metals into water sources can cause extremely serious environmental and health problems for humans, aquatic ecosystems, soil and animals. For this reason, regular and accurate measurement of heavy metal levels in water sources is of vital importance. Until now, photometry technology similar to that used in laboratories was employed to obtain accurate, reproducible and reliable measurements, but this required the use of expensive chemicals. This method also did not provide reliable results for some metals such as lead. Fortunately, the new PowerMon NG analyzer, with its innovative voltammetry technology, measures heavy metal levels in surface waters, river waters and tap water on site, improving both safety and regulatory compliance.

PowerMon NG, an enhanced version of the PowerMon devices currently on the market, combines the existing PowerMon and PowerMon S analyzers into a single device, replacing them.

Thus, voltammetry technology, which includes both anodic and cathodic stripping voltammetry, is added to existing analysis methods (colorimetry, ionometry, titrometry and spectrometry). Anodic stripping voltammetry is a voltammetric method used for quantitative analysis of specific ionic species. In this method, the analyte to be analyzed is plated onto the working electrode during the electrolytic precipitation phase and oxidized from the electrode during the stripping phase. The current is measured during the stripping phase. The oxidation of species is recorded as the peak of the current signal at the potential where the species begin to oxidize. Cathodic stripping voltammetry is similar to anodic stripping voltammetry, which is a residual analysis method, but in this case the potential is held at an oxidation level during the plating phase and the oxidized species are stripped from the electrode by scanning the potential in the positive direction. This technique is used for ionic species that form insoluble salts and leave them on or near the working electrode during precipitation. Through the Bran+Luebbe brand, SPX offers a series of highly effective continuous and fully automatic online PowerMon analyzers. Bran+Luebbe has been producing high-performance water pollution measurement analyzers for over 60 years.

PowerMon series devices with more than 15,000 analysis options meet the requirements of approximately 200 different water applications. These devices can measure numerous parameters including oxygen, pH, redox and conductivity by connecting various sensors.

The product range includes devices that can replace many single-parameter analyzers such as PowerMon S and can monitor, for example, phosphate, nitrate and ammonia concentration levels. PowerMon Titrator can also determine parameters such as melting point value, hardness degree and boron content in cooling water. PowerMon analyzers require very little maintenance. Features such as long-life bearings, a high-quality drive motor running at constant speed, self-diagnostic system, automatic calibration and low separator consumption reduce operating costs and offer longer maintenance intervals compared to Bran+Luebbe's previous analyzer models. The analyzers feature network capabilities that enable remote monitoring and easy integration into broader facility control systems, as well as an easy-to-use local touchscreen interface. SPX's PowerMon analyzers help better monitor heavy metals and other contaminants in all water sources. These devices reduce ongoing costs as they require minimal maintenance, and with their speed and precision they provide effective and reliable monitoring assurance. Moreover, the devices provide a comprehensive and cost-effective solution for monitoring water parameters through multiple current and measurement capabilities.

Annemarie Kleist Sales Project Engineer - Analyst