Discontinuous Nitrate Detection
Test kits are available for analysis at well-supply source (field analysis) of many chemical and biological characteristics. Field test kits are available for alkalinity and hardness, bacteria (iron and sulfur bacteria, coliform), fluoride, iron, manganese, chlorine, nitrate, pH, and zinc. Test kits are useful indicators and may be relied upon for the presence or absence of a pollutant. If a well produces water with a contaminant identified on a field test, it may be desired to conduct a more detailed analysis, performed by a qualified laboratory1 .
Requesting a qualified lab to conduct a detailed analysis of the water would require a processing time. The momentary wait is necessary because of specific procedures a lab must follow for a water quality analysis. A summary of EPA-Method 352.1 is the laboratory procedure for the determination of nitrate as nitrogen. This method is based upon the reaction of the nitrate ion with brucine sulfate in a 13 normality (N) H2SO4 solution at a temperature of 100°C. The color of the resulting complex is measured with a spectrophotometer at 410 nanometers (nm). Modifications can be made to remove or correct for turbidity, color, salinity, or dissolved organic compounds in the sample. Calibration, standardization, and calculations are performed to accurately measure nitrate 2 .
Results of the water quality analysis could be presented to the household residents several days after the indication from a field test kit. Meanwhile, residents of the household most likely regarded their water with caution or unknowingly put themselves at risk by consuming contaminated water. Sourcing bottled water for drinking and cooking purposes are necessary for the household. Only to remind us again, that continuous monitoring of drinking water is essential for long-term resourcefulness in areas where nitrate is prevalent.