RiverTurb, an IoT water turbidity monitoring system for river applications
Description
We designed a low-cost, open-source turbidity sensor for in-situ monitoring of water quality in streams and rivers. This monitoring system, named RiverTurb, is constructed using the widely available SEN0189 sensor. RiverTurb measures turbidity using the optical principle of attenuation, providing an affordable alternative to traditional commercial sensors, which cost typically in the range of thousands of euros. This paper outlines the hardware modification of the sensors, system development and calibration processes, including detailed instructions for assembly, calibration and usage. Hardware modifications were necessary to adapt the sensor for outdoor monitoring, i.e. replacing the original LEDs with ones with daylight filters and adding a new power connection to the sensor. Both these modifications were done to prevent sunlight influence. In field deployment, the monitoring system and associated sensor demonstrated reliable performance, accurately capturing turbidity variations and sediment concentrations. Calibration tests confirmed the sensor's accuracy and precision, making it suitable for long-term environmental monitoring. The sensor's simple design and building requirements make it an ideal choice for continuous turbidity measurement in aquatic environments. By enabling widespread, cost-effective monitoring, this sensor enhances our ability to study sediment dynamics and water quality with high spatial and temporal resolution, benefiting both researchers and environmental management efforts.