Wastewater analysis is an important means to assess wastewater quality, determine the types and concentrations of pollutants, and monitor the effectiveness of wastewater treatment. Here are some basics of wastewater analysis:
1.*Purpose of Analysis**:
Contaminant Identification**: Determine the presence of contaminants such as organic matter, inorganics, heavy metals, nutrients (e.g., nitrogen, phosphorus), suspended solids, etc. in wastewater.
Concentration determination**: Quantify the concentration of contaminants in wastewater.
Discharge Standard Compliance**: Check that wastewater meets national and local discharge standards.
Treatment Efficiency Assessment**: Monitor the operational effectiveness of wastewater treatment facilities.
2.*Sample Collection**:
Sampling points should be selected in locations that are representative of the overall quality of the wastewater.
Sampling containers should be cleaned to avoid cross-contamination.
Samples should be analyzed as soon as possible or, if necessary, stored appropriately.
3.*Analytical Method**:
Physical analysis methods**: e.g. pH, color, temperature, dissolved oxygen, suspended solids, etc.
Chemical analysis methods**: such as ion chromatography, atomic absorption spectroscopy, atomic fluorescence spectroscopy, etc., for the determination of chemical composition in wastewater.
Biochemical analysis methods**: such as biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), total organic carbon (TOC), etc., are used to assess the organic content of wastewater.
Microbiological analysis methods**: e.g. coli, total number of bacteria, etc., to assess the degree of biological contamination of wastewater.
4.*Quality Assurance & Quality Control**:
Tests are performed using standard methods to ensure that the results are accurate and reliable.
Blank tests, parallel tests, spike tests, etc., were carried out to verify the accuracy and precision of the analytical methods.
Calibrate the instrument regularly to ensure consistent performance.
5.*Data Processing and Reporting**:
The results of the analysis should be fully documented, including the date, time, location, analysis method, instrument model, etc.
According to the analysis results, prepare a wastewater analysis report, clearly indicating the types and concentrations of pollutants in the wastewater and whether they meet the discharge standards.
6.*Safety & Environment**:
Safe operating procedures and the use of personal protective equipment should be followed during the analysis.
Waste liquid and waste should be disposed of in accordance with regulations to prevent pollution to the environment.
Wastewater analysis is an important part of environmental protection and wastewater treatment, which requires professional knowledge and skills. With the development of technology, the methods and instruments of wastewater analysis are constantly updated to improve the accuracy and efficiency of analysis.