[en] The main objective of the present research is the development of a method for the continuous measurement of nitrate in water, thus enabling the detection of nitrate emitting sources and the prevention of extended contamination in groundwater. In this study we examine a class of compounds, called ionophores, which have unique capabilities and can enhance the selectivity and performance of nitrate sensors with respect to the available ones. The research presented is focused on nitrate monitoring via optical sensing. The sensing mechanism used is based on the combination of a suitable ionophore and a chromoionophore, incorporated into a polymer matrix.
