Nitrate is naturally present in the environment. However, excessive concentrations of nitrate in surface and ground water are problematic as such concentrations have a negative effect on the water quality. Usually, excessive levels of nitrate are
a direct result of extensive usage of fertilizers in agriculture. Nitrate is easily washed from soils and can end up in surface or ground water. As the nitrate content is regulated in many countries, a quick and inexpensive assessment of its concentration is required to monitor the water quality.
The nitrate concentration can easily be obtained by direct measurement using a nitrate ion selective electrode. First, a calibration is performed, afterwards, the samples are measured in less than a minute.
This is a fast, inexpensive and reliable method to determine the nitrate content in various water samples.