Analytical Validation of Low-Cost Optical Sensors for Freshwater Monitoring: A Scoping Review of Current Gaps and a Proposed Framework

Low-cost optical sensors have emerged as promising tools for in situ freshwater quality monitoring, offering the potential to expand spatial and temporal data coverage, particularly in community-based monitoring projects. However, despite rapid technological development of low-cost optical sensors, analytical validation practices of these devices remain poorly studied. This study aims to systematically and critically assess analytical validation practices applied to low-cost optical sensors based on absorbance, fluorescence, colorimetry, and light scattering, potentially designed for community-based freshwater monitoring. A total of 40 studies were analysed to evaluate how key analytical performance parameters, including sensitivity, accuracy, precision, and repeatability, as well as comparison with reference methods or benchtop instruments, were assessed and reported in relation to established validation guidelines. The analysis revealed substantial heterogeneity and critical gaps in validation approaches. While most studies report sensitivity metrics such as limits of detection and quantification, comprehensive evaluation of key analytical parameters such as accuracy, precision, and reproducibility was often limited. The reliance on single calibration experiments and high determination coefficients (R2) frequently overestimates sensor performance. The lack of open-source materials further limits reproducibility and deployment: essential information such as design files, calibration procedures, and open-source resources is often incomplete or unavailable. To address these limitations, we propose a structured framework for validation and reporting that integrates established analytical guidelines with the practicalities of low-cost sensor development. Adoption of this approach would enable more consistent performance evaluation, improving reproducibility and facilitating comparison across studies and devices. Overall, strengthening analytical validation and reporting practices is essential to support the transition of low-cost optical sensors from proof-of-concept systems to reliable analytical devices for freshwater quality monitoring.