Water Analysis Laboratory
1. Introduction
A water analysis laboratory is a specialized facility that monitors water quality for drinking, industrial, agricultural, and environmental purposes. It conducts physicochemical analyses to ensure compliance with regulations and guarantee public health safety.
2. Objectives and Missions
The main objectives of a water analysis laboratory include:
- Monitoring water quality: Assessing essential parameters to ensure safe water.
- Controlling supply networks: Analyzing drinking water and wastewater to detect contamination.
- Assisting industries and municipalities: Helping optimize purification processes.
- Research and development: Studying water pollution and developing new treatment technologies.
3. Types of Analyses Performed
A. Physicochemical Analyses
These tests evaluate the fundamental properties and chemical composition of water.
Basic Parameters:
- pH: Measures water acidity or alkalinity.
- Electrical Conductivity: Indicates dissolved salt concentration.
- Turbidity: Assesses water clarity.
- Temperature: Affects gas solubility and chemical reactions.
Minerals and Dissolved Elements:
- Major Ions: Na⁺, K⁺, Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺, Cl⁻, SO₄²⁻, NO₃⁻, NH₄⁺, HCO₃⁻.
- Water Hardness: Calcium and magnesium concentration.
B. Organic Pollution Analyses
- Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD5): Measures biodegradable organic matter.
- Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD): Evaluates total organic pollutants.
