The ammonia test kits employing the well-established Nessler reagent to determine ammonia concentrations are applicable to drinking water, clean surface water, and good-quality nitrified wastewater effluent.

CHEMets® test kits utilize self-filling ampules and vacuum pulls the sample up from a snap cup into the ampule when the tip is broken off. After tilting the ampule several times to mix the sample and reagent and waiting for the color to develop (usually 2 minutes or less), the analyst quantifies the result using the provided cylindrical comparator (for concentrations ≤1ppm) or flat comparator (for concentrations ≥1ppm).

The VACUettes Auto Dilution Method: Hold the ampoule in a horizontal position while the capillary tip contacts the sample (Step 1). After the capillary fills, immerse it in a diluent (usually deionized water); snap the tip off the ampoule (Step 2). The sample and diluent are drawn into the ampoule where they mix with the reagent (Step 3). The resulting color change can then be compared with the flat or round comparator to quantify results (Step 4).

Why Test for Ammonia?
Ammonia is toxic to aquatic life, the aquaculture industry frequently measures and controls ammonia concentration to keep fish and shellfish alive. Regulatory requirements mandate ammonia monitoring for diverse industries to protect downstream aquatic environments. Examples include wastewater, landfill, acid mine drainage and animal feeding operations where ammonia is measured in effluent, leachate, and unintended discharges. Environmental groups often test water bodies for ammonia as part of their monitoring program to help them assess trends associated with other aquatic health indicators.

Shelf life: Although the Nessler reagent is stable, its high alkali content attacks the glass ampoule. The resulting precipitate interferes with color comparison. The refill has a 5-month shelf life when stored in the dark and at room temperature. This shelf life can be extended by 18 months if the refill is refrigerated.