Fast ortho-phosphate measurements with the RiverDip app
Volunteers need to take a water sample onto which the PAD is placed on top. After three minutes of reaction time, the PAD needs to be removed and a picture needs to be taken with the RiverDip app sending the picture to the project researchers. The intensity of the appearing blue color gives an indication of the phosphate concentration in the water. The complete procedure is explained step by step in this video.
The project wants to mobilize as many volunteers as possible to sample rivers and streams in order to better map the widespread phosphorus problem in Europe. Everybody who wants to volunteer can register on the RiverDip website. The PADs are sent to the volunteers by mail and after downloading the app, one can immediately start measuring.
The Sullied Sediments project is developing and testing new tools to better assess, treat and prevent contamination from certain pollutants that can be found in the sediments in our waterways. This involves a citizen science project that encourages volunteers to take samples from their local waterways and measure the levels of phosphate in them.