Method for measuring suspended Solids in Runoffs

Abstract

The parameters “Total Suspended Solids” and “Fine Suspended Solids” (0,45 µm–63 µm, (SS63)) are recently considered due to the new discussion on the evaluation of surface runoffs in Germany. Within, the fine fraction of suspended solids will be investigated more and more in monitoring programs. The analysis of solids cannot completely follow the existing German standard methods (DIN EN 872 and DIN 38409), since they are developed predominately for the matrix waste water. For example, the DIN not defines exactly the transition of particulate to dissolved matter. Furthermore, descriptions of essential intermediate steps to measure fine solids are missing. This paper introduces methods to analyze (fine) suspended solids, which are generated by own experiences in laboratory. These suggestions may be useful to minimize systematic mistakes.