Boffins Sniff Out Water Pollution

A TEAM of city scientists is taking the lab to the river.

Researchers at the University of Birmingham’s School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences have developed the science behind a piece of equipment that can detect water pollution in seconds.

The team created the device in partnership with scientific instrumentation company, STS Ltd.

Using fluorescence, a natural phenomena whereby certain substances absorb and emit light, organic water pollutants such as sewage, landfill and farm effluents can be detected and their origins identified.

Dr Andy Baker, lead investigator from the university, said: "Originally I was studying the fluorescence of ground water in caves, and I found that a different type of fluorescence is present in river water.

"We then developed a fluorescence fingerprint for substances found in river water, so that we could identify pollutants.

"We can now take a sample, measure the fluorescence and identify the pollutants. We are effectively taking the lab to the river."

The device will be useful to environmental organisations and businesses who need to self-certify their effluent discharges or detect and quickly identify the source and extent of any water pollution.