The Importance of Measurement of Nitrite Levels

Oct 13, 2025 by talynt.org 27 views

Determination of Nitrite Levels (NO2) in Packaged Drinking Water (AMDK) with the Visible Spectrophotometry Method at PT. Tirta Sibayakindo Berastagi

Introduction

Ensuring the quality and safety of drinking water is a top priority for consumers and water treatment companies alike. One of the key parameters to monitor is the level of nitrite (NO2) in bottled drinking water. Nitrite is a compound that can be formed during the water treatment process and can be an indicator of pollution. High levels of nitrite in water can cause methemoglobinemia, a condition that interferes with the ability of blood to transport oxygen. Therefore, monitoring nitrite levels in bottled drinking water is crucial. In this study, we aimed to determine the nitrite levels in packaged drinking water (AMDK) at PT. Tirta Sibayakindo Berastagi using the visible spectrophotometry method.

The Importance of Measurement of Nitrite Levels

Nitrite (NO2) is a compound that can be formed during the water treatment process and can be an indicator of pollution. This compound can have a negative impact on human health, especially if consumed in an amount that exceeds the threshold. High levels of nitrite in water can cause methemoglobinemia, conditions that interfere with the ability of blood to transport oxygen. Therefore, monitoring nitrite levels in bottled drinking water is crucial. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that the maximum limit of nitrite levels in drinking water should not exceed 0.06 mg/l.

Spectrophotometry Method Visible

The visible spectrophotometry method is an efficient and accurate technique in determining the concentration of certain substances in the solution. In this case, a wavelength of 543 Nm is used because it is an optimal wavelength to detect nitrite. This technique allows rapid analysis and can be applied broadly in water quality testing. The visible spectrophotometry method involves measuring the absorbance of light by the sample at a specific wavelength. The absorbance is directly proportional to the concentration of the substance being measured.

Relevance of Research Results

The results of the analysis showed a low level of nitrite in AMDK at PT. Tirta Sibayakindo Berastagi provides guarantees to consumers that the products they consume are safe and quality. In addition, compliance with standards set by the government shows the company's commitment in maintaining water quality and the environment. The results of this study can be used as a reference for water treatment companies to ensure that their products meet the required standards.

Materials and Methods

The materials used in this study include:

Packaged drinking water (AMDK) from PT. Tirta Sibayakindo Berastagi
Visible spectrophotometer
Nitrite standard solution
Distilled water

The methods used in this study include:

Preparation of the sample: The packaged drinking water (AMDK) was collected from PT. Tirta Sibayakindo Berastagi and stored in a clean container.
Measurement of nitrite levels: The nitrite levels in the sample were measured using a visible spectrophotometer at a wavelength of 543 Nm.
Calculation of nitrite concentration: The concentration of nitrite in the sample was calculated using the absorbance value obtained from the spectrophotometer.

Results

The results of the analysis showed the following nitrite levels:

240 ml packaged water: 0.002 mg/l (in lines 1 and 2)
600 ml packaged water: 0.003 mg/l
1500 ml packaged water: 0.003 mg/l (in lines 1 and 2)
Gallon water: 0.002 mg/l (line 1), 0.003 mg/l (line 2), and 0.002 mg/l (line 3)

Discussion

The results of the analysis showed that all levels of nitrite in the packaging drinking water meet the standards set by Law No. 82 of 2001 concerning water quality processing and water pollution control, which sets the maximum limit of nitrite levels is 0.06 mg/l. The visible spectrophotometry method used in this study is an efficient and accurate technique in determining the concentration of nitrite in the sample. The results of this study can be used as a reference for water treatment companies to ensure that their products meet the required standards.

Conclusion

From the analysis of nitrite content in bottled drinking water at PT. Tirta Sibayakindo, it can be concluded that all samples meet the established standards. The application of the visible spectrophotometry method is the right choice in this test, giving accurate and fast results. Consistency in water quality testing is an important step to ensure consumer safety and maintain the company's reputation in the drinking water industry.

Recommendations

Based on the results of this study, the following recommendations can be made:

Water treatment companies should regularly monitor the nitrite levels in their products to ensure that they meet the required standards.
The visible spectrophotometry method can be used as a reference technique for determining the concentration of nitrite in water samples.
Further studies should be conducted to investigate the effects of nitrite on human health and the environment.

Limitations

This study has several limitations, including:

The sample size was limited to a few types of packaged drinking water.
The study only measured the nitrite levels in the packaged drinking water and did not investigate other parameters that may affect the quality of the water.

Future Directions

Future studies should aim to investigate the effects of nitrite on human health and the environment. Additionally, further studies should be conducted to develop more efficient and accurate techniques for determining the concentration of nitrite in water samples.

References

World Health Organization (WHO). (2011). Guidelines for Drinking-Water Quality.
Law No. 82 of 2001 concerning water quality processing and water pollution control.
American Public Health Association (APHA). (2017). Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater.

Appendix

The following appendix provides additional information on the materials and methods used in this study:

Preparation of the sample
Measurement of nitrite levels
Calculation of nitrite concentration

Table 1: Nitrite levels in packaged drinking water (AMDK)

Sample	Nitrite level (mg/l)
240 ml packaged water	0.002
600 ml packaged water	0.003
1500 ml packaged water	0.003
Gallon water	0.002, 0.003, 0.002

Table 2: Comparison of nitrite levels with standards

Sample	Nitrite level (mg/l)	Standard
240 ml packaged water	0.002	0.06
600 ml packaged water	0.003	0.06
1500 ml packaged water	0.003	0.06
Gallon water	0.002, 0.003, 0.002	0.06

Figure 1: Absorbance spectrum of nitrite

The absorbance spectrum of nitrite is shown in Figure 1. The absorbance is directly proportional to the concentration of nitrite in the sample.

Figure 2: Calibration curve of nitrite

The calibration curve of nitrite is shown in Figure 2. The calibration curve is used to calculate the concentration of nitrite in the sample.

Figure 3: Nitrite levels in packaged drinking water (AMDK)

The nitrite levels in packaged drinking water (AMDK) are shown in Figure 3. The nitrite levels are compared with the standards set by Law No. 82 of 2001 concerning water quality processing and water pollution control.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Determination of Nitrite Levels (NO2) in Packaged Drinking Water (AMDK)

Q: What is nitrite and why is it important to monitor its levels in drinking water?

A: Nitrite (NO2) is a compound that can be formed during the water treatment process and can be an indicator of pollution. High levels of nitrite in water can cause methemoglobinemia, a condition that interferes with the ability of blood to transport oxygen. Therefore, monitoring nitrite levels in drinking water is crucial to ensure the quality and safety of the water.

Q: What is the maximum limit of nitrite levels in drinking water?

A: The maximum limit of nitrite levels in drinking water is set by Law No. 82 of 2001 concerning water quality processing and water pollution control, which is 0.06 mg/l.

Q: What is the visible spectrophotometry method and how is it used to determine nitrite levels?

A: The visible spectrophotometry method is an efficient and accurate technique in determining the concentration of certain substances in the solution. In this case, a wavelength of 543 Nm is used because it is an optimal wavelength to detect nitrite. This technique allows rapid analysis and can be applied broadly in water quality testing.

Q: What are the benefits of using the visible spectrophotometry method to determine nitrite levels?

A: The visible spectrophotometry method is a fast and accurate technique that can be used to determine nitrite levels in drinking water. It is also a cost-effective method that can be used in a variety of settings.

Q: What are the limitations of the visible spectrophotometry method?

A: The visible spectrophotometry method has several limitations, including the need for specialized equipment and the potential for human error.

Q: How can I ensure that my drinking water meets the required standards for nitrite levels?

A: You can ensure that your drinking water meets the required standards for nitrite levels by having it tested regularly by a certified laboratory. You can also check with your local water treatment company to see if they have implemented any measures to reduce nitrite levels in their water.

Q: What are the potential health effects of high nitrite levels in drinking water?

A: High levels of nitrite in drinking water can cause methemoglobinemia, a condition that interferes with the ability of blood to transport oxygen. This can lead to a range of health problems, including shortness of breath, fatigue, and even death.

Q: Can I reduce my exposure to nitrite in drinking water?

A: Yes, you can reduce your exposure to nitrite in drinking water by using a water filter that is designed to remove nitrite and other contaminants. You can also check with your local water treatment company to see if they have implemented any measures to reduce nitrite levels in their water.

Q: How can I get my drinking water tested for nitrite levels?

A: You can get your drinking water tested for nitrite levels by contacting a certified laboratory in your area. You can also check with your local water treatment company to see if they offer testing services.

Q: What are the costs associated with testing for nitrite levels?

A: The costs associated with testing for nitrite levels can vary depending on the laboratory and the type of test being performed. However, most laboratories charge between $50 and $200 for a standard nitrite test.

Q: How long does it take to get the results of a nitrite test?

A: The time it takes to get the results of a nitrite test can vary depending on the laboratory and the type of test being performed. However, most laboratories can provide results within 24 to 48 hours.

Q: Can I get my drinking water tested for other contaminants besides nitrite?

A: Yes, you can get your drinking water tested for other contaminants besides nitrite. Many laboratories offer a range of testing services, including tests for bacteria, viruses, and other inorganic and organic compounds.

Q: How can I ensure that my drinking water is safe to drink?

A: You can ensure that your drinking water is safe to drink by having it tested regularly by a certified laboratory. You can also check with your local water treatment company to see if they have implemented any measures to reduce contaminants in their water. Additionally, you can use a water filter that is designed to remove a wide range of contaminants, including bacteria, viruses, and other inorganic and organic compounds.