CHAPTER 2

LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 Introduction

In this chapter, we will focus about water quality monitoring system using Arduino
and Blynk, previous projects which are related to this project and various sensor such as
ultrasonic sensor and TDS sensor has been studied. The working principle of those projects
existing devices and projects, a comparison between projects will be comprised in the
literature review.

2.2 Previous research

2.2.1 IOT based Smart Water Quality Monitoring System

Based on Konde and Deosarkar, they proposed a Smart Water Quality Monitoring
(SWQM) System utilizes IoT technology with a reconfigurable sensor interface to continuously
monitor various water quality parameters such as turbidity, pH, humidity, water level, water
temperature, and carbon dioxide (CO2) in real-time. It integrates Field Programmable Gate
Array (FPGA) for efficient signal processing and employs Zigbee-based wireless
communication for data transmission. The system offers the advantage of comprehensive, real-
time monitoring of multiple parameters, reducing the cost and time associated with water
quality assessment.

2.2.2 Design and Development of Water Quality Monitoring System in IOT

Based on Zulhani Rasin and Mohd Abdullah, they proposed Design and
Development of Water Quality Monitoring System in IOT used microcontrollers, specifically
Raspberry Pi 3 Model B, which are used alongside sensors like pH, turbidity, and temperature
for continuous water quality monitoring. The system ensures real-time data acquisition,
allowing for the prompt detection of water contaminants or unsafe conditions. Additionally, the
mention of Raspberry Pi highlights the advantages of enhanced processing capabilities and
connectivity options, although it might come with higher associated costs compared to more
straightforward microcontroller-based solutions. This combination of microcontrollers and
advanced hardware enables efficient and timely water quality assessment.

2.2.3 IOT Based Smart Water Quality Monitoring System

Based on Varsha Lakshmikantha, Anjitha Hiriyannagowda, Akshay Manjunath,

Aruna Patted, Jagadeesh Basavaiah and Audre Arlene Anthony, they proposed a Water Quality
Monitoring System Based on IOT. The hardware components in this water quality monitoring
system include various sensors for measuring parameters like turbidity, pH, and temperature,
an Arduino ATMEGA 328 microcontroller for data processing, an LCD display for
visualization, and a Wi-Fi module for connectivity. One notable advantage of this setup is its
flexibility, as it allows for the adaptation of different sensors and software modifications to
monitor various water quality parameters beyond the initial ones. However, this flexibility may
also introduce complexity, as it requires technical expertise to program the microcontroller and
configure the Wi-Fi module, potentially making implementation more challenging for users
without the necessary skills and knowledge.[3]

2.2.4 Water Quality Monitoring System Based on IOT

Based on Vaishnavi V. Daigavane and Dr. M.A Gaikwad, they proposed Water
Quality Monitoring System Based on IOT. Water pollution is one of the biggest fears for the
green globalization. In order to ensure the safe supply of the drinking water the quality needs
to be monitor in real time. In this paper we present a design and development of a low-cost
system for real time monitoring of the water quality in IOT (internet of things). The system
consist of several sensors is used to measuring physical and chemical parameters of the water.
The parameters such as temperature, PH, turbidity, flow sensor of the water can be measured.
The measured values from the sensors can be processed by the core controller. The Arduino
model can be used as a core controller. Finally, the sensor data can be viewed on internet
using WI-FI system.
 2.2.5 IOT Based Smart Water Quality Monitoring

Based on by Farmanullah Jan, Nasro Min-Allah and Dilek Düştegör, they proposed
a IOT Based Smart Water Quality Monitoring System. The method employed in this IoT-based
water quality monitoring system involves the use of wireless sensors to continuously measure
key parameters such as pH, conductivity, and temperature in river water. These sensors transmit
real time data, allowing for prompt detection of changes in water quality due to factors like dye
contamination. The system then procses this data and displays it on an LCD screen while
sending SMS alerts to relevant authorities, providing early warnings and enabling swift
responses. One significant advantage of this system is its ability to provide continuous
monitoring, ensuring that water quality issues are detected in real-time, reducing the risk of
pollution events going unnoticed. Moreover, its low-cost IoT solution makes it accessible for
monitoring river water quality, which is crucial for both aquatic life and human consumption.
However, there are some disadvantages to consider. First, the system does not currently monitor
dissolved oxygen levels, a vital parameter for assessing water ecosystem health. Additionally,
the durability of the sensors in challenging environmental conditions, such as extreme
temperatures or water turbidity, may be a concern. Finally, the system's effectiveness relies on
network coverage, potentially limiting its use in remote areas with poor connectivity.[5]
 2.3 Comparison between previous research

Based on the previous work from the project, the Table 1 shows the project briefly
concluded with the methods, advantages and disadvantages.

Title Method Advantages Disadvantages

IOT based Smart Water Uses sensors and FPGA Real-time monitoring Limited to six
Quality Monitoring board for real time of multiple parameters parameters and may
System monitoring of six and reduces cost and require expertise to set
parameters with Zigbee time for water quality up FPGA-based system
communication. assessment.
Design and Microcontroller- Based Microcontroller based entail higher costs
Development of Water Water Quality systems allow for real- compared to simpler
Quality Monitoring Monitoring. time monitoring of microcontroller-based
System in IOT water quality solutions.
parameters, ensuring
timely detection of
contaminants or unsafe
conditions.
IOT Based Smart The hardware setup The system can be Implementing the
Water Quality includes various adapted to monitor system may require
Monitoring System sensors for measuring other water quality technical expertise,
water parameters such parameters by replacing particularly in
as turbidity, pH, and sensors and modifying programming the
temperature. An the software, offering microcontroller and
Arduino ATMEGA 328 flexibility for different configuring the WiFi
microcontroller is used monitoring need. module.
to convert analog
sensor readings into
digital values. An LCD
display is employed to
visualize the sensor
outputs, and a Wi-Fi
 module facilitates
connectivity between
the hardware and
software components.
Water Quality It consists of several To design and develop The range of ESP8266
Monitoring System sensors is used to of a low-cost system for Wifi module is may be
Based on IOT measuring physical and real time monitoring. limited and average
chemical parameters of voice output delay of
the water. 2.1 seconds.
IOT Based Smart An IoT based water This IoT system It lacks dissolved
Water Quality quality monitoring provides real-time and oxygen monitoring
Monitoring system using wireless cost-effective water critical for aquatic life,
sensors to track pH, quality monitoring, faces challenges in
conductivity, and enabling swift sensor durability and
temperature in river contamination maintenance in river
water, while also detection, reducing environments, relies on
recording dye mixing physical inspections, network coverage for
and sending alerts via and improving SMS alerts, and could
SMS. communication through benefit from monitoring
SMS alerts. additional parameters
like electrical
conductivity and
chlorine levels.
2.4 Hardware configuration

2.4.1 ESP 32

Figure 2.1: ESP32

The ESP32 as shown in Figure 2.1 is a microcontroller that's versatile and

powerful, developed by Espressif Systems. That, in combination with the broad
utilization in IoT projects in general, usually employs a dual-core processor, built-in
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, and an array of GPIO pins for many uses. Because of its low
power consumption and rich set of onboard peripherals, the ESP32 is used within smart
home devices, wearables, and other forms of embedded systems. Compatible with the
Arduino IDE and Espressif's ESP-IDF, it's accessible to a large base of makers,
beginners, and pros alike.

2.4.2 TDS Sensor

Figure 2.2: TDS Sensor

A TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) sensor as shown in Figure 2.2 is a device used
to measure the concentration of dissolved solids in a liquid, typically water. These
dissolved solids can include minerals, salts, metals, and other impurities that affect
water quality. TDS sensors are commonly used in water purification systems,
aquariums, hydroponics, and environmental monitoring to ensure water is within safe
or optimal ranges for consumption or use. The sensor works by measuring the electrical
conductivity of the water, which correlates to the amount of dissolved solids present.
2.4.3 Temperature Sensor

Figure 2.3: Temperature Sensor

A temperature sensor as shown in Figure 2.3 is a device used to measure the

temperature of an environment or object. It converts the temperature into a readable
output, such as an electrical signal. Temperature sensors come in various types,
including thermocouples, thermistors, and digital sensors, each suited for different
applications. They are widely used in industries, home automation, healthcare, and
weather monitoring to ensure systems operate within the desired temperature range.
Temperature sensors are essential for maintaining safety, efficiency, and comfort in
various systems and processes.

2.4.4 PH Sensor

Figure 2.4: PH Sensor

A pH sensor as shown in Figure 2.4 is a device used to measure the acidity or

alkalinity of a solution, typically water. It works by detecting the hydrogen ion
concentration in the solution and provides a pH value, which ranges from 0 to 14. A pH
of 7 is neutral, values below 7 are acidic, and values above 7 are alkaline. pH sensors
are commonly used in environmental monitoring, water treatment, agriculture, and
various industrial processes to ensure the chemical balance of liquids. They play a
crucial role in maintaining the quality and safety of water and other solutions.
2.4.5 Turbidity Sensor

Figure 2.5: Tubidity Sensor

A turbidity sensor as shown in Figure 2.5 is a device used to measure the clarity
or cloudiness of a liquid by detecting the amount of light scattered by particles
suspended in the liquid. Higher turbidity indicates more particles and lower clarity.
Turbidity sensors are commonly used in water quality monitoring, wastewater
treatment, and environmental studies to assess the presence of sediments, pollutants, or
microorganisms in water. They help ensure that water meets safety and quality
standards by providing real-time data on its purity.

2.4.6 I2C LCD

Figure 2.6: I2C LCD

An I2C LCD (Inter-Integrated Circuit Liquid Crystal Display as shown in Figure

2.6 is a type of display that uses the I2C communication protocol. This makes it simpler
to connect to microcontrollers, requiring only two data lines (SDA and SCL irrespective
of the number of devices on the I2C bus. The display is commonly used in electronic
projects for showcasing data outputs, such as sensor readings. Its advantage lies in its
simplicity, as multiple devices can communicate with the microcontroller without
needing a lot of wiring, thus making the overall design clean and efficient.
2.5 Summary

As a conclusion to this chapter, it is important to comprehend and explore the earlier

work produced because of the early research through journals, published papers, and
websites. To increase the understanding of the recently suggested project and produce a
better and improved version of the project, it is to analyze each category of the early
research, along with its working methodology and source materials. Most significantly,
each component was picked out and utilized for the proposed project based on the special
qualities it brought to the table from the prior project. The functions of each component are
described in more detail in the next chapter.
 CHAPTER 3

METHODOLOGY

1.1 Introduction
This chapter will explain the methods and procedures about the project. The content
of methodology will cover the process of the project that will be used to develop it. This
methodology discusses the process of the project from start to the end.

1.2 Project Flowchart

Figure 3.2: Project flowchart

 This flowchart illustrates the flow of the project, based on the diagram shown above
in Figure 3.1. To begin with, a review of the literature of the earlier studies associated
with the existing project is conducted. Literature review will help in attaining the most
suitable concepts and circuit designs. The circuits will be constructed and tested later for
determination of its functionality. Circuits formed during the designing of the system
would be altered in a way I am going to rectify the faults, Experience during the use of
some soft tools in simulating the system to make it functional. However, the
programming of these circuits will be done later when indeed the circuits will have been
emulated. There is a programme coding and a check is made on any operation that is
happening in the programme. If the simulation does not work, more programming will be
performed on the software in the next lessons till the coding works as intended. The next
step can be to go build a hardware prototype only if the circuit code has been developed
and is error free. The hardware part starts from circuit on the circuit board since it
involves the outlook of the general plan for design. After this, replace the compiled
program into the microcontroller to program it. Two steps are related to the verification of
this portable measurement instrument’s performance next. If, however, the portable
measurement device could not function as required, it is averting to a hardware
component to facilitate the identification of errors. The measurement results are displayed
on Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) & on the smartphone, the portable measurement unit is
functioning without any issue. Last, but not least, the measurement data collected shall be
stored in the cloud according to Internet of Things (IoT) view.
1.3 Project Block Diagram

Figure 3.3: Project block diagram

The block diagram in Figure 3.3 illustrates a comprehensive water quality monitoring
system consists of various sensor such as TDS sensor, temperature sensor, turbidity sensor
& pH sensor. Microcontroller such as Arduino are popular choices for sensor interfacing
and data processing. It includes a TDS sensor to measure Total Dissolved Solids, a
temperature sensor to monitor water temperature, a turbidity sensor to assess water clarity,
and a pH sensor to determine water acidity or alkalinity. These sensors are connected to the
"Arduino Board," which processes the data from all sensors. The Arduino board is linked
to an "LCD Display," showing real-time readings of TDS, temperature, turbidity, and pH
locally. Additionally, the Arduino is connected to the "Blynk App Interface" via an "Internet
Connection," enabling remote monitoring on mobile devices through the Blynk app. This
setup ensures comprehensive and real-time monitoring of various water quality parameters,
both locally and remotely, facilitating timely detection and response to potential water
quality issues.
1.4 Software Development
1.4.1 Software Flowchart

Figure 3.4.1: Software Flowchart

The software flowchart in Figure 3.4.1 showing the step-by-step procedure in

coding for a system using Arduino IDE. Normally, Arduino IDE programs Arduino Uno
boards but is also capable of programming ESP32 microcontrollers. Uploading the
program to ESP32 boards and the creation of actual code are the starting points of the
whole process. Even though some libraries are pre-installed in the Arduino IDE, users
can download their own ESP32-specific libraries or even create their own. After any
compilation issues are fixed, a run of the code should be done. In case of compilation
errors, the code is iteratively changed and rerun until it goes through. When the code
has been successfully uploaded onto the ESP32, it is tested on the board itself. Success
in the development of the software is defined by how well the code fits the goals of the
project. The last step is the careful review of the code, adjusted for the ESP32, against
the initial layout to allow for identifying and fixing any adjustments which might be
necessary.
1.4.2 Coding Programming in Arduino IDE
Here is the code in Arduino IDE, which was tediously prepared for this part of
the project: "Water Quality with TDS Sensor Integration Monitoring System." It
handles the collection of sensor data and displays it on an LCD screen. It includes data
that is being collected: the concentration of total dissolved solids in water, which
encompasses a number of salts, minerals, and other impurities in ppm or mg/L, taken
from a TDS sensor; the acidity or alkalinity of the water obtained from a pH sensor;
and quantification of the number of suspended particles or solids in the water from a
turbidity sensor. It is going to be checked and re-checked until it reaches the success of
testing to run the function. Figure 3.4 below shows an important part of the coding to
collect data from sensors and monitor the water quality.

1.5 Hardware
Figure 3.5 shows TDS sensor, temperature sensor, pH sensor and turbidity sensor
connect to ESP32. Then, the data from sensors is sent to LCD, Blynk for mobile and
Thingspeak for PC. Data from the sensor is then sent to the LCD and Thingspeak. Power
banks are used to give power to sensors, LCD, and ESP32.

1.5.1 Hardware Installation

Figure 3.5.1: Hardware installment