Generalized weighted ratio method for accurate turbidity measurement over a wide range

Area of Science:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Optical Physics
• Environmental Science

Background:

• Turbidity measurement is crucial for monitoring water quality, ensuring food safety, and in medical and oceanographic applications.
• Accurate turbidity estimation is vital across various scientific and industrial fields.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a novel method for accurate turbidity estimation over a wide range.
• To enhance accuracy by expanding the ratio function for improved turbidity-intensity fitting.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing a weighted ratio of scattered light intensities at multiple angles to represent turbidity.
• Employing an 850 nm laser and a power meter on a turntable to capture light intensity data at various angles.
• Developing an expanded ratio function for more flexible turbidity-intensity fitting.

Main Results:

• The proposed method achieved an average relative estimation error of 0.58% for turbidity values ranging from 160 to 4000 NTU.
• A four-angle intensity combination demonstrated high accuracy across all tested samples.
• The expanded ratio function improved the flexibility and accuracy of turbidity estimation.

Conclusions:

• The developed method provides a highly accurate and flexible approach for turbidity measurement.
• This technique is suitable for applications requiring precise turbidity assessment within a broad range.
• The findings contribute to advancements in optical methods for water quality and other relevant assessments.