Study on the Spectral Response of Phosphates Nitrates and Suspended Sediments in Water

Jayalakshmi M, Alester Joseph Vanreyk

Abstract: Phosphorus occurs naturally in rocks and other mineral deposits. During the natural process of weathering, the rocks gradually release the phosphorus as phosphate ions which are soluble in water. Nitrate is used mainly in inorganic fertilizers. Nitrate can reach both surface water and groundwater as a consequence of agricultural activity (including excess application of inorganic nitrogenous fertilizers and manures), from wastewater treatment and from oxidation of nitrogenous waste products in human and animal excreta, including septic tanks. These solids include anything drifting or floating in the water, from sediment, silt and sand to plankton and algae. Total suspended solids are a significant factor in observing water clarity. The more solids present in the water, the less clear the water will be.The present research is to study the reflectance pattern of phosphate, nitrate and suspended sediments in visible region. Phosphate and nitrate samples of different concentrations are created and tested under laboratory conditions using handheld spectroradiometer.

Keywords: phosphates, nitrates, suspended sediments, spectroradiometer, reflectance pattern