What Does
Nitrate Mean?
A nitrate is a chemical compound consisting of nitrogen and oxygen. It is an ion with the chemical formula NO3–. The presence of nitrates in drinking water or streams, lakes and rivers is a matter of environmental concern. Soil and water quality is of particular interest in the trenchless construction industry.
Trenchlesspedia Explains Nitrate
Nitrates are found naturally on earth, but they are also produced for use in soil fertilizers. High levels of nitrates in water can be toxic for people, livestock and aquatic life. For this reason, regulating authorities such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) require regular monitoring and testing.
Trenchless operators have to be careful when it comes to water quality. Forms of nitrogen such as ammonia, nitrates and nitrites should be monitored for safe levels. It is part of the safety measures and government compliance requirements involved in trenchless construction.