The ion-exchange membrane technology was first used for the measurement of soil nutrients back in 1951. Although its strengths were recognized early on, its use in soil research has seen ups and downs over the decades because of a lack of understanding of the multitudinous variables affecting the levels of absorbed nutrients. Our experienced Research and Development Co-ordinators assist researchers in the design of their research projects, ensuring that the data collected will address the clients' research objective, thus avoiding any unnecessary problems.

We offer a variety of service options to our research clients:

1. PRS™-probe analysis
   
   • Analysis Agreement: Western Ag Innovations sends PRS™-probes to the researcher as required. The researcher uses the PRS™-probes to make the desired measurements, then washes and ships them back to Western Ag Innovations in appropriately labelled sample bags for analysis.


2. Analysis Options
   
   • Complete analysis: NH₄⁺-N, NO₃^--N, P, K, S, Ca, Mg, Mn, Mo, Al, Fe, Cu, Zn, B, Co, Si, and Pb - Best value and most informative!
   • Anion-only analysis: NO₃^--N, P, S, Al, Fe, Mn, Mo, Cu, Zn, B, and Pb
   • N-only analysis: NH₄⁺-N and NO₃^--N
   • Custom analysis: Other elements or contaminants are available upon request.


3. PRS™-probe collaborative or non-collaborative research agreements
   The PRS™-probes are available through a collaborative or non-collaborative research agreement, depending on the willingness of the researcher to share the data with Western Ag Innovations. The purpose of the collaborative research agreement is to facilitate the collection and interpretation of high quality soil nutrient supply rate data. In addition, Western Ag Innovations may showcase the researcher's published data in Technical Updates, at trade show booths, etc (upon permission of the researcher). Over 95% of our research clients select the collaborative research analysis or lease agreements, with the remainder choosing to analyze the PRS™-probes in their laboratory without disclosing their results.