Scientists at the University of Ulster have designed revolutionary septic tank technology, which could reduce the environmental risk posed by overflows and spills.

The Tank-Hawk is expected to become a lucrative system, amid growing and increasingly hazardous incidents occurring across Northern Ireland.

Around 100,000 tanks are operated in the Province, which are emptied by Northern Ireland Water, who has introduced its service on a phased basis.

But the new university-developed system, currently undergoing trails by the Ulster Business School and the School of Environmental Science, could save money for both the Government and tank owners.

-- Advertisement --

It uses sensors to monitor levels within the tank and transmits this information through GPS to a centrally controlled system, which determines when the tanks needs emptied.

Project Leader Dr Norry McBride said: "Eutrophication, or over-enrichment, caused by excessive transfers of phosphorus and nitrogen from land to water, is the most important impact on water quality in Northern Ireland,

"It is also the most pervasive water quality problem throughout the EU and other developed countries."

Residentially operated septic tanks cause around 7-12% of phosphorus transfers from land to water, according to Dr McBride.

However, he has insisted Tank-Hawk could prevent septic tanks overflowing and causing pollution, and could also prevent unnecessary emptying of tanks at extra cost to consumers and Northern Ireland Water.

A prototype device has been created, and is currently undergoing trials at a local National Trust property.

Provided these trail are successful, plans are afoot to create a joint partnership between UU and Leeds technology firm Jugsaw, IETG and Derry-based Precision Group, who will bring the product to the marketplace.

Local contractors would eventually carry out installations of the system, which would be maintained for a twice annually fee.

(PR/JM)