EN 13137 Waste Characterization - Test for Determination of Total Organic Carbon (TOC) in Waste-Sludge and Sediments

EUROLAB, with its state-of-the-art accredited laboratories and expert team, provides precise and fast testing services within the scope of EN 13137 testing. This European standard specifies two methods for the determination of total organic carbon (TOC) in undried waste samples containing more than 0,1 g of carbon per kg of dry matter (1%). This standard is also applicable to sludges, sediments and similar materials.

When present, elemental carbon, carbides, cyanides, cyanates, isocyanates, isothiocyanates and thiocyanates are determined as organic carbon using the methods described in this standard. Therefore, where the waste contains relevant levels of the above-mentioned components, the interpretation of the measured value can be problematic. If necessary, these components should be individually identified through an appropriate validated procedure and recorded in the test report.

The total carbon (TC) present in the uncured sample is converted to carbon dioxide by combustion in a gas stream containing carbon dioxide-free oxygen. Catalysts or modifiers can be used to ensure complete combustion. The amount of carbon dioxide released is measured by infrared spectrometry, gravimetry, coulometry, conductometry, thermal conductivity determination, flame ionization detection after reduction to methane, or other suitable techniques.

Samples may undergo fermentation and be infectious. Therefore, it is recommended that these samples be handled with special care. The gases that may be formed due to the activities of microorganisms are potentially flammable. Excessive pressure build-up can cause the sample container to burst, generating potentially infectious aerosols and contaminated shrapnel.

Harmful compounds can be formed during the combustion process and during acid treatment. The user should take appropriate measures (eg activated carbon filters) to prevent them from entering the laboratory environment.

EUROLAB assists manufacturers with EN 13137 test compliance. Our test experts, with their professional working mission and principles, provide you, our manufacturers and suppliers, the best service and controlled testing process in our laboratories. Thanks to these services, businesses receive more effective, high-performance and quality testing services and provide safe, fast and uninterrupted service to their customers.