Infrared nitrogen sensor for wastewater treatment process control and optimization

Overview

Max-IR Labs is developing an infrared sensor designed for continuous monitoring of nitrogen contaminants, specifically nitrate and ammonia, in wastewater treatment processes. The technology addresses a critical need in the water treatment industry for reliable, real-time nitrogen sensing to optimize biological treatment performance and ensure regulatory compliance. By moving nitrogen monitoring from infrequent laboratory analysis to continuous on-site measurement, treatment plant operators can gain immediate visibility into process conditions and respond proactively to changes.

Technical specifications

Core sensing approach:

• Uses infrared spectroscopy to detect and quantify nitrate and ammonia in water
• Leverages quantum cascade lasers (QCLs) for high-performance detection in a portable, field-grade form factor
• Incorporates proprietary absorption materials for pre-concentration of nitrate and ammonia on the sensor element, enhancing sensitivity
• Integrates flow pumps to enable continuous measurement of flowing wastewater streams
• Employs dedicated signal processing algorithms to convert raw spectroscopic data into actionable concentration readings

Key advantages:

• Enables real-time process control rather than relying on delayed off-site lab results
• Portable design suited for deployment directly at wastewater treatment plants
• Builds on lab-validated infrared detection methods already demonstrated by the team

Technology readiness level

The infrared sensing approach has been validated in laboratory settings, confirming the underlying hypothesis that infrared technology can effectively monitor nitrogen contaminants in water. The current development stage focuses on engineering a field-grade monitor by transferring the laboratory spectroscopic routine onto a portable QCL-based platform, integrating pre-concentration materials, flow systems, and signal processing. The technology is progressing from a lab-validated concept toward a deployable field instrument intended for operational use at wastewater treatment facilities.