Innovative technology,
About CZE technology
Based on proven, military-grade technology, Eco Detection uses the world’s first broad-spectrum, single-suite, real-time water quality monitoring system for forensic-grade analysis.
The technology, which has miniaturised the capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE) laboratory process into a robust and field-ready system, was originally developed by Grey Innovation in conjunction with the University of Tasmania, and commercialised globally by Eco Detection’s sister spin-out company GreyScan. In 2019, Grey Innovation won the prestigious Eureka Prize for Innovation – Outstanding Science in Safeguarding Australia with the GreyScan ETD-100 trace detection device for inorganic explosives.
The technique is analogous to US EPA Method 6500 – Dissolved inorganic anions in aqueous matrices using Capillary Ion Electrophoresis.
Eco Detection’s Ion-Q series can detect specific ions at concentrations as low as tens of parts per billion. This innovative technology uses positive and negative electrical field polarities to detect both anions and cations in sample fluid. The patented sensing system enables us to measure nitrate, nitrite, ammonium, phosphate, carbonate, fluoride, chloride magnesium, and coming soon, heavy metals, glyphosate and emerging contaminants.
In 2023, Eco Detection topped @AuManufacturing’s inaugural Top 50 Australian Manufacturers and won the Victorian iAwards23 prize for the best Sustainability and Environmental Solution.
More data
points per
year than
ever before*:
12
Industry Standard Once per Month
1,460
Independent
Lab Verified
+ Patented sensing system
Eco Detection has an exclusive licence to the technology and is developing the system in partnership with Grey Innovation, an Australian technology commercialisation company.
+ Autonomous operation
Our system uses proprietary self-calibrating technology, requiring minimal user maintenance and replacement of consumables (monthly).
+ Works in any catchment environment
The high dynamic range of the sensors enables broad detection levels for upper and lower river reaches in any catchment area.
+ Remote operation and monitoring
Transmits data in real-time via mobile and satellite networks, enabling accurate trend analysis and quality assurance programs.
+ 96 data points daily
Capability for multiple daily runs for dissolved nutrients, sulphate, carbonate and chloride, and 96 data points daily for dissolved oxygen, turbidity, pH and conductivity.
Capable of operating on solar, mains or battery power, our technology is designed for remote operation and monitoring
Product
Specifications
Eco Detection Ion-Q+ offers a unique multi-parameter solution optimised for targeting analytes of interest. This table indicates the current specifications and the product roadmap expanding our CZE detection capabilities.
Note: Ion-Q+ features remotely adjustable sensitivity for higher range requirements.
| Analytes | Range (mg/L) |
|---|---|
| Nitrite as N (NO2-N) | 0.03 – 5.0 |
| Nitrate as N (NO3-N) | 0.03 – 5.0 |
| Fluoride | 0.1 – 10.0 |
| Phosphate as P(PO4 -P) | 0.1 – 10.0 |
| Chloride | 1.0 – 100 |
| Sulphate | 2.0 – 200 |
| Analytes | Range (mg/L) |
|---|---|
| Carbonate | 2.0 – 200 |
| Ammonium (NH4 + N) | 0.2 – 200 |
| Magnesium (Mg)* | 1.0 – 200 |
| Potassium (K) | 1.0 – 200 |
| Calcium (Ca)* | 1.0 – 200 |
| Iron (II)* | 0.3 – 100 |
| General | |
|---|---|
| Compatible Water Conditions | Conductivity ≤ 2,000 μS/cm Turbidity ≤ 1000 NTU |
| Operating Temperature | -5°C to +40°C (23°F to 104°F) ambient temperature |
| Sampling Rate | 1-6 samples per day 90 days/400 samples per service interval |
| Accuracy | 10% or 0.1 mg/L, whichever is greater |
| Automatic Calibration + Protection | Automatic internal self-calibration, fluidics, and turbidity protection |
| Environmental Rating | Eco Detection unit IP54, external sub pump sensors IP68 |
| Power | Mains power 240v input. Battery power: 100Ah *12V Solar power: 300W – 350W |
| Connectivity | Internet via cellular or satellite. Operation is continuous even without an internet connection |
* Preliminary indication only
Auxiliary sensors
The Eco Detection system is capable of deployment with auxiliary sensors to measure associated water quality parameters at the same time. This enables the system to provide a more comprehensive view of the state of the water source through the same integrated data delivery channel.
Auxiliary sensors that have been integrated with the device include; turbidity, conductivity, pH, temperature and dissolved oxygen.
Product Roadmap
| Analytes | Range |
|---|---|
| Phosphate | (high sensitivity) 0.01 mg/L |
| Glyphosate | 0.1 mg/L |
| Heavy Metals | Range |
|---|---|
| Arsenic, Cadmium, Cobalt, Copper, Lead, Mercury, Nickel & Zinc | 1.0 mg/L |
| PFAS | To be determined |
| Bacteria | To be determined |