Optical Raman Sensor Network for Persistent Coastal Water Quality Monitoring

Coastal ecosystems are increasingly threatened by rising ocean temperatures, waste, and the effects of flooding, leading to nitrification, harmful algae blooms, disease breakouts, and habitat degradation. Our ability to mitigate these phenomena is hindered by the lack of direct measurements, insufficient data or effective models to analyze and predict water quality. Dottir Labs proposes a novel solution to address these gaps - an expansive, cost-effective Raman-based sensor network that enables continuous, real-time monitoring of critical water quality metrics, providing a coastal water quality mapping platform. Dottir Labs’ sensor network uses in-situ Swept-Source Raman Spectroscopy (SSRS) to monitor dissolved CO2, nitrogenous and sulfur compounds and other biomarkers in ocean water. Our Phase I proposal focuses on adapting our immersion optical probe for marine environments, followed by in-situ data collection to refine spectral acquisition and processing, validated using established analytical methods. While our initial focus is on well-characterized analytes, Raman spectra provide rich data from which additional analytes and metrics - such as indicators of biological activity and contaminants - can be deduced. Our system offers scalable, continuous measurements that enable predictive models and mitigation strategies for coastal resiliency. The technology has broad commercialization potential, including aquaculture, wastewater treatment and industrial applications.