EN 15936 Organic Carbon Determination by Spectroscopic Testing
The European Standard EN 15936 provides a method for the determination of organic carbon in water, wastewater, and sludge using spectroscopic techniques. This standard is widely used in sectors such as environmental monitoring, water treatment plants, and industrial processes where precise quantification of organic compounds is critical.
Organic carbon (OC) can be measured by several methods including combustion analysis or spectrophotometric measurement following the conversion to CO2. The spectroscopic method described in EN 15936 is particularly advantageous because it offers high precision, reproducibility, and accuracy over a wide range of concentrations.
The standard specifies that the OC content should be expressed as carbon mass per unit volume (mg/L or ppm). This method ensures consistent results across different laboratories by providing detailed procedural instructions. It also includes acceptance criteria to ensure that measurements meet specified quality standards. The spectroscopic technique is especially useful for detecting trace amounts of organic compounds which are difficult to quantify using other methods.
Preparation of the sample involves filtering and diluting if necessary, depending on the expected concentration levels. Proper sample preparation ensures reliable results by minimizing any potential interference from inorganic carbon or suspended solids that could affect the measurement accuracy.
The instrumentation required for this analysis includes a suitable spectrophotometer capable of measuring absorbance at specific wavelengths relevant to CO2 production upon oxidation. Calibration standards are prepared using known concentrations of organic compounds, typically glucose or another suitable reference substance.
During the analytical process, samples are introduced into an oxygen-containing environment where they undergo controlled combustion leading to the formation of CO2 gas. The amount of CO2 generated is then measured spectroscopically through its absorbance at characteristic wavelengths corresponding to CO2 molecules. From this data, the original organic carbon content can be calculated.
Results obtained from EN 15936 are particularly valuable in industries dealing with water quality management where compliance with regulatory limits on organic contaminants is essential. By accurately determining OC levels, operators can make informed decisions regarding treatment processes and ensure that effluents meet discharge standards set by environmental authorities.
Applied Standards
| Standard Number | Title |
|---|---|
| EN 15936:2014 | Determination of organic carbon by spectroscopic methods - Particular application to water, wastewater and sludge |
Scope and Methodology
The scope of EN 15936 covers the determination of total organic carbon (TOC) in water, wastewater, and sludge samples. The methodology described herein employs a combination of sample preparation techniques followed by spectroscopic analysis to quantify TOC.
Sample preparation is crucial for obtaining accurate results. Samples should be filtered using appropriate filtration membranes to remove particulate matter that might interfere with the measurement process. For very concentrated samples, dilution may be necessary before proceeding with further steps.
The actual determination of organic carbon involves introducing the sample into a combustion chamber where it reacts with oxygen under controlled conditions resulting in CO2 formation. This reaction is monitored spectroscopically using a device capable of detecting absorbance at specific wavelengths indicative of CO2 presence.
Calibration curves are established by measuring known concentrations of organic compounds against their corresponding TOC values. These calibration lines allow for accurate determination of the TOC content in unknown samples based on their measured absorbances.
The standard provides detailed instructions regarding all aspects from sample collection to final reporting, ensuring consistency and reliability among various laboratories performing this analysis. Compliance with these procedures helps maintain high standards of analytical quality throughout the industry.
Quality and Reliability Assurance
The implementation of EN 15936 requires strict adherence to specified protocols for ensuring both qualitative accuracy and quantitative precision. Quality assurance measures include regular calibration checks, validation studies comparing results from different laboratories, and internal audits to identify potential sources of error.
Regularly calibrating instruments ensures that they remain accurate over time even as environmental factors or usage patterns change. Comparing results between multiple labs allows identification of discrepancies which can then be addressed through improved training programs or equipment upgrades if necessary.
In addition, internal audits help maintain high standards within individual facilities by identifying areas needing improvement and implementing corrective actions promptly when issues are detected.
By maintaining rigorous quality assurance practices, laboratories adhering to EN 15936 can ensure consistent, reliable results that meet regulatory requirements and provide valuable information for decision-making purposes across various industries.
