Simple method to extend the range of ECO-BB for waters with high backscattering coefficient

Area of Science:

• Ocean optics
• Water quality monitoring
• In-situ optical measurements

Background:

• The ECO-BB instrument is widely used for measuring the backscattering coefficient in water optics research.
• Standard ECO-BB calibration is optimized for low backscattering in oceanic waters.
• High particle concentrations in inland and coastal waters can cause ECO-BB saturation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a simple method for extending the measurement range of the ECO-BB instrument in turbid waters.
• To validate the use of a nephelometric turbidimeter as a proxy for backscattering measurements in high turbidity environments.

Main Methods:

• The method involves using a nephelometric turbidimeter in conjunction with the ECO-BB instrument.
• Tests were conducted using powdered calcium carbonate in freshwater.
• Field validation was performed using water samples from the Singapore Straits and the Lupar River.

Main Results:

• A strong correlation was observed between ECO-BB and turbidimeter measurements across all tests.
• The nephelometric turbidimeter proved effective in measuring backscattering in highly turbid water samples.
• The proposed method successfully extends the utility of the ECO-BB in challenging aquatic environments.

Conclusions:

• A nephelometric turbidimeter can serve as a reliable proxy for backscattering coefficient measurements in turbid waters.
• This method enhances the applicability of the ECO-BB instrument for water optics research in diverse aquatic systems.
• The findings support improved water quality assessment in coastal and inland environments.