PhotoPPM brings a massive phosphate concentration repository to the public for viewing.
PhotoPPM allows users to
- Interact with a public map of all collected phosphate samples
- Learn more about individual phosphates samples
- Upload their own phosphate samples in new locations
- Assess the phosphate concentration of an unknown sample with greater accuracy (±0.23 ppm)
- Learn more about cultural eutrophication and the effect of phosphate on aquatic ecosystems
The PhotoPPM testing process works by taking a regular phosphate test kit (molybdenum-blue) and taking a picture of the sample. Then, PhotoPPM analyzes the samples color and then uses a pre-calibrated model to predict the phosphate concentration inside the water sample. The sample is then geotagged and uploaded into the database, making it available to the public.
PhotoPPM was developed as a part of Michael Gerhard’s 2018-19 science fair project.