Nitrification Sensor Research

Garver is currently leading a research project sponsored by Dallas Water Utilities, Houston Water, and The Water Research Foundation to evaluate fluorescence-based metrics for detection of nitrification in chloraminated drinking water systems. 

To date, Garver has discovered a fluorescence signal associated with the onset of nitrification and is validating that signal through ongoing bench-scale experiments. Results from this project will lay the groundwork for development of sensor systems that can be deployed in drinking water systems to detect nitrification earlier than the chemical parameters currently in use. 

Data from these sensor systems will prompt operational or maintenance actions to prevent establishment of nitrification, with the goals of minimizing the cost of preventative measures while maintaining water quality in the distribution system.