Fast, safe, and easy nutrient analysis

Importance of the topic

Accurate nutrient analysis is essential for protecting aquatic ecosystems, ensuring safe drinking water, and monitoring soil fertility. Reliable measurement of phosphorus and nitrogen species helps prevent eutrophication, harmful algal blooms, oxygen depletion, and toxin accumulation, while also supporting public health surveillance such as wastewater-based epidemiology.

Objectives and overview of the study

This article presents the Thermo Scientific Gallery and Gallery Plus discrete analyzers as high-throughput, fully automated solutions for simultaneous multi-parameter nutrient analysis. It outlines their capabilities, workflows, and advantages over conventional wet chemistry methods, and highlights regulatory compliance.

Methodology and instrumentation used

The Gallery platforms employ disposable DECACELL cuvette strips (2–240 μL volumes) and integrate photometric assays for orthophosphate, total phosphorus, ammonia, nitrates, nitrites, TON, TKN, and other analytes. An optional electrochemical measurement (ECM) module adds parallel pH and conductivity testing. Ready-to-use reagent kits simplify handling, while automated calibration, dilution, and validation ensure consistent performance. Enzymatic nitrate reduction replaces cadmium coils for safer TON determination.

Main results and discussion

The systems achieve up to 350 photometric and 67 electrochemical tests per hour. Automation reduces manual steps, minimizes error, and allows true walk-away operation. Enzymatic TON assays comply with EPA and NELAC standards, eliminate hazardous waste, and improve reproducibility in complex matrices. Parallel analysis of over 20 parameters streamlines workflows and enhances analytical efficiency.

Benefits and practical applications

• Increased throughput and faster turnaround times
• Reduced reagent consumption and lower waste disposal costs
• Enhanced operator safety with ready-to-use, bar-coded reagents
• Bi-directional LIMS integration for secure data management
• Flexible method development and compliance with international standards

Future trends and opportunities

Advances in green enzymatic chemistries and micro-volume handling will further cut costs and environmental impact. Integration with real-time data analytics, remote monitoring, and expanded biomarker panels (e.g., viral indicators) promises continuous environmental surveillance. Modular upgrades may support emerging regulatory and research needs.

Conclusion

The Thermo Scientific Gallery and Gallery Plus discrete analyzers deliver a fast, safe, and reliable platform for comprehensive nutrient and water quality testing. Their fully automated, multi-parameter capabilities enhance laboratory productivity, ensure regulatory compliance, and reduce operational costs.

References

• Thermo Fisher Scientific. Gallery and Gallery Plus Discrete Analyzers – Application Note.
• U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. EPA Methods 300–400 Series for Water Quality Analysis.
• ISO 15923-1: Water Quality – Discrete Analysis of Selected Ions.