Design and implementation of a smart, solar-powered boat system for monitoring coastal water quality Using wireless communication technologies

Abstract

This paper presents the design and implementation of an autonomous, solar-powered smart boat system for real-time coastal water quality monitoring, addressing the challenges of costly and non-instantaneous traditional methods. The system comprises a boat equipped with multiple sensors to measure pH, turbidity, temperature, humidity, and depth, along with a microcontroller (Arduino Nano) and a wireless transceiver (HC-12) for data transmission to a ground station. The system is powered by rechargeable lithium-ion batteries that are charged via solar panels, ensuring operational sustainability. The system underwent intensive field testing on the Libyan coast (Sabratha), where over 1200 samples were collected from three sites. The results demonstrated reliable performance with an error < 5% and revealed significant variations in pollution levels, particularly turbidity and pH, among the sites, indicating a trend of water quality degradation towards the west. This project proves the feasibility of low-cost, automated, and Internet of Things (IoT)-based solutions in supporting sustainable environmental monitoring and decision-making efforts.