Device Simplifies Measurement of Fluoride Contamination in Water

Adding fluoride to water has been common practice in a number of countries including the U.S. In low concentrations (below 1.5 mg/L), fluoride can help prevent tooth decay and strengthen bones; however, at higher levels, it can have the opposite effect, causing serious dental and bone disease, especially in children and developing fetuses. To determine whether drinking water is safe, fluoride must be detected in water at a parts-per-million (ppm) level. Measuring fluoride at such low concentrations with sufficient accuracy is expensive and requires a well-equipped chemical lab.