Determination of Fluoride in Water: Water Quality Monitoring and Safety

Determination of Fluoride in Water Samples

What is Fluoride in Water and Why is it Important?

Fluoride is an element found naturally in water sources. It can be added to water naturally, but it can also be added to water due to some industrial activities and agricultural practices. Especially in drinking water, fluoride is added at certain levels to provide positive effects on dental health, while high fluoride levels can pose a health risk.

Although fluoride up to about 1 mg/L is beneficial for dental health, it can cause health problems above certain amounts, even if it is naturally present in water and added in a controlled manner when necessary. High fluoride concentrations can adversely affect animal and human health. For this reason, “Fluoride Analysis” in water is an important test parameter.

Fluoride analysis in water is determined by the following methods:

• Colorimetric method
• Electrode method

The colorimetric method is based on distillation of samples and the reaction between fluoride and zirconium dye. The electrode method is the easiest method. Fluoride solutions are prepared and the necessary device is prepared and measured in the desired range.

Why is Fluoride Determination in Water?

Determination of fluoride in water is carried out to determine the suitability of water resources for human health and to control environmental impacts. Fluoride level is a very important parameter, especially for drinking water and irrigation water. The main reasons for fluoride determination are as follows:

1. Drinking Water Safety: The fluoride content of drinking water has a direct impact on human health. Excess fluoride can impair tooth and bone health. Therefore, the fluoride level of drinking water needs to be kept within a certain range. WHO and local health authorities recommend that the fluoride level in drinking water should be kept at a level that is not harmful to health.
2. Environmental Monitoring: High levels of fluoride in water can upset the balance in ecosystems. In particular, the fluoride content of irrigation water can lead to soil contamination with fluoride, which can have adverse effects on plant health.
3. Industrial and Agricultural Activities: Industrial wastes and agricultural practices can increase fluoride levels in water resources. It is therefore necessary to monitor the water and check fluoride levels regularly.

Related Standards

• TS EN 12173 Chemicals used in the treatment of drinking and utility water - Sodium fluoride
• TS EN ISO 10304-1 / AC Water quality - Determination of dissolved ions by liquid ion chromatography - Part 1: Determination of bromide, chloride, fluoride, nitrate, nitrite, phosphate and sulfate
• TS 4234 ISO 10359-1 Water quality - Determination of fluoride - Part 4234: Electrochemical probe method for potable and less polluted water

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