This collaborative project was one of six statewide sensors-based projects funded by more than $4.9 million awarded by the Ohio Third Frontier, a program within the Ohio Department of Development. 

Edward E. King, Ph.D., YSI’s vice president R&D and chief technology officer, says, “The evaluation process was rigorous. A panel of experts, including a PhD electrochemist, challenged us to defend our project on several fronts.” Primary factors evaluated by the Third Frontier panel were technical risk, commercial risk, and mission impact.

YSI has identified a large market for in situ nutrient monitoring for multiple applications. Soluble nitrate, which may appear in runoff and wastewater treatment streams, can be traced to two major sources. Excess or unused ammonia from fertilizers in soil is converted by nitrification bacteria into soluble nitrate; and humans and livestock excrete urea or uric acid as a product of nitrogen (protein) metabolism which is also converted to soluble nitrate. Nitrate is one of four nutrient pollutants (the other three are phosphate, ammonium, and silicate) that causes pollution in surface waters. A eutrophied lake, for example, can have algae and plant overgrowth due to excessive nutrients in the water. The decaying algae then uses up the oxygen in the aquatic system, resulting in algal bloom dead zones.

“This triad of YSI, Riehl Engineering, and UC is a perfect synergy,” notes Rick Omlor, YSI CEO and president. “Together, we hope to benefit from Third Frontier funding and work together to provide more jobs, sales, income, and tax revenue to give back to Ohio. We are extremely grateful to the ODOD and the Third Frontier program’s faith in the unique collaboration of an established company like YSI, a start-up business such as Riehl Engineering, and a renowned Ohio academic institution in UC.” 
                                                                                                                                                                                          

The Ohio Frontier Program has created 41,300 Ohio jobs through the end of 2008, attracted or capitalized more than 570 start-up companies, and generated a $10 return on every dollar of Ohio’s investment in the period from 2003-2008, with that return expected to grow in the coming years. Its total economic impact is estimated to be over $6.6 billion.

YSI’s King will serve as authorizing agent for the grant. Dr. Kevin Schlueter, a scientist at YSI, will act as program director. UC Distinguished Research Professor and Professor of Chemistry Dr. William R. Heineman will lead the UC team in this project. He also serves on YSI’s Technology Advisory Board. Dr. Bill L. Riehl, a materials scientist, chemical engineer and licensed professional engineer, will lead Riehl Engineering’s efforts in the collaboration.

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