Nutrient Analyzers & Sensors

Nutrient Analyzers & Sensors

Nutrient analyzers and sensors measure nitrogen- and phosphorus-related species (and related indicators) that drive biological process performance and regulatory compliance in water and wastewater applications. The category spans colorimetric analyzers, optical sensors, and ion-selective electrodes (ISE), enabling measurement strategies that range from high-precision compliance points to fast-trending control points.

These measurements directly support discharge control and optimization. Monitoring at wastewater treatment plant outlets helps demonstrate compliance and manage discharge-related cost exposure. Within treatment trains, nutrient data supports aeration control, precipitant dosing, and denitrification monitoring, improving stability while reducing chemical and energy waste. The result is tighter control of key process states rather than reactive operation based on delayed lab values.

Method selection is application-dependent. In-situ sensors are positioned for nitrate and ammonia where fast trend measurement is required for timely process control. Colorimetric analyzers are selected when higher precision is needed at critical control points for ammonia, nitrite, phosphate, and total phosphorus. Each method class matches a different balance of response time, selectivity, and regulatory defensibility.

Measurement principles include reagent-based photometric color development, UV optical absorption for nitrate, and electrochemical potential measurement with ion-selective membranes. Endress+Hauser highlights use of standard colorimetric methods comparable to laboratory measurements (e.g., indophenol blue for ammonia; molybdenum blue or vanadate molybdate for phosphate; naphthylamine for nitrite), with reagents delivered ready-to-prepare and accompanied by safety documentation. Sample conditioning and automated backflush concepts support sustained reliability, and Liquiline System CA80 analyzers can accept additional Memosens sensors to broaden the process picture without adding separate devices.

Typical applications include aeration basin control (nitrification/denitrification management), final effluent nutrient verification, chemical phosphorus removal optimization, surface water and source-water monitoring for drinking water treatment, industrial wastewater nutrient control where discharge limits apply, and performance benchmarking of treatment stages during commissioning and process upgrades.

Miller Mechanical Specialties, an exclusive authorized representative of sales and service for Endress+Hauser.