NANOTEC NSTDA Joins Forces with PWA and Health Center 12 Yala to Assess Community Water Quality in Songkhla Using Rapid Water Quality Testing Kits
The National Nanotechnology Center (NANOTEC), National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), in collaboration with the Provincial Waterworks Authority (PWA) and Health Center 12 Yala, Department of Health, conducted a field mission in Hat Yai District, Songkhla Province, under the Pre-battle A-Quality initiative. The mission aimed to monitor the performance of village water supply systems and assess the quality of domestic water in a model community using water quality testing and monitoring technologies developed by Thai researchers. The initiative also provided technical guidance on the management and operation of village water supply systems to support the production of clean and safe water for local communities.
The research team, led by Dr. Weerakanya Maneepakorn, Director of the Responsive Materials and Nano Sensors Research Group, deployed three rapid water quality testing platforms: ChemSense for detecting chemical contaminants, MSense for heavy metal analysis, and BioSense for identifying waterborne pathogens. Developed by NANOTEC and the National Electronics and Computer Technology Center (NECTEC), NSTDA, these technologies were used to screen key drinking and domestic water quality indicators, including chemical parameters (manganese, iron, copper, fluoride, and aluminum), heavy metals (arsenic, lead, cadmium, and mercury), residual free chlorine, and coliform bacteria. The assessment supports community water quality surveillance, enhances the efficiency of domestic water production, and evaluates the effectiveness of local water management practices. The initiative was implemented in close collaboration with the PWA, which provides expertise in water production, and Health Center 12 Yala, which supports community water management and public health promotion. Thung Tam Sao Municipality in Hat Yai District, Songkhla Province, was selected as the pilot area for this integrated collaboration.
The collaboration among NANOTEC NSTDA, the Provincial Waterworks Authority, and Health Center 12 Yala demonstrates the effective integration of scientific knowledge, technological innovation, and institutional expertise to proactively address community water quality challenges. Beyond providing technical consultation on village water supply production, the partnership supports immediate problem-solving and establishes practical measures to maintain water quality standards. This collaborative approach contributes to strengthening water security, ensuring access to clean and safe water, and improving the quality of life of local communities in a sustainable manner.
