APHA SM 5310 Total Organic Carbon (TOC)

The APHA SM 5310 standard outlines in the introduction section A the methods for determining the total organic carbon (TOC) content in water samples. This standard is applicable to various types of water, including surface waters, domestic and industrial wastes. The parameters of interest include total organic carbon, dissolved organic carbon, and non-purgeable organic carbon. The standard specifies the conditions for measurement, such as sample preparation, reagent use, and the method of oxidation, which are essential for obtaining accurate and reliable results.

TOC is a crucial parameter for evaluating the quality of water, as high levels of organic carbon can indicate contamination and affect water treatment processes. This method is particularly useful for identifying and quantifying organic carbon, ensuring that water samples meet industry standards and regulatory requirements. The method involves oxidizing organic carbon to carbon dioxide (CO₂) using high-temperature combustion (outlined in section B), persulfate-UV oxidation or heated-persulfate oxidation (section C), or supercritical water oxidation (section D) and measuring the CO₂ produced.

The importance of this method stems from its role in environmental monitoring and regulatory compliance. By providing a standardized approach to measuring TOC, APHA SM 5310 ensures consistency and accuracy in the analysis of water samples. This is vital for environmental agencies, water treatment facilities, and researchers who rely on precise data to make informed decisions. The method also helps in detecting organic contaminants, which can affect the safety and quality of water.

With the multi N/C x300 series Analytik Jena offers a range of high-quality and reliable TOC analyzers following either the high-temperature catalytic oxidation or the UV/wet-chemical sample digestion principle combined with sensitive and selective CO₂ quantification by NDIR (non-dispersive infrared) detection principle. The devices not only meet the requirements of the APHA SM 5310, but also fulfill the requirements of US EPA 415, US EPA 9060 or ASTM D7573. In addition to the above-mentioned sum parameters also TN_b can be determined fully simultaneously according to ASTM D8083 or APHA SM 4500-N E. 

Sources

• APHA SM 5310 - Total Organic Carbon (TOC)