Technology
Our product is a measurement system for analyzing low levels of dissolved metals in water. The portable device provides precise real-time on-site results in field conditions. At the core of the technology is a filter, about the size of a 10 euro cent coin, made of our proprietary nanomaterial. A water sample is pumped through the filter, which collects metal ions from the liquid. The metals are concentrated up to 1000 times in the filter compared to the original water sample. The high concentration of the metals in the filter makes it possible to measure them with a portable and affordable X-ray fluorescence (XRF) sensor, which on its own is not sensitive enough to measure the water samples. The original metal concentrations in water are calculated based on XRF measurements by our calibration algorithm.
The below videos demonstrate the concept and actual measurement procedure:
3AWater device can be used in various applications that require real-time data of the metal content of water. Our technology provides great benefits compared to laboratory analysis or other measurement systems. The below table presents the benefits that can be achieved with our technology in mining applications.
Features
Fast on-site measurement
Affordability
Ease of use
Benefits
Real-time data on water quality allows taking action without a delay.
Customers get more data and/or reduce costs.
Fast adaption of the technology without extensive training.
Value
Optimized processes,
fewer environmental problems.
Better risk management,
lower measurement costs.
Lower operating costs,
more reliable data.
Current development stage
Current prototype and calibration specifications:
- Water sample volume: 10 – 50 ml
- Metals: Cu, Zn, Ni, Mn, Pb and U
- pH range = 5.5 – 7.5
- Dynamic range: 10 µg/L to 10 mg/L for dissolved metals
- Time per sample < 15 min
We are working hard to further improve the analytical capabilities and widening the range of operational conditions for our product launch in 2021.
Measurement service
We provide an on-site real-time multi-metal water analysis service with our current prototype for piloting the technology. Contact us to discuss the opportunities we provide in more detail.
