How is Total Suspended Solids (TSS) measured in wastewater?

Total Suspended Solids (TSS) measurement involves quantifying the solid particles suspended in water, which can impact water quality and treatment processes. The most accurate method for determining TSS is by filtering a known volume of wastewater through a filter, which retains the solid particles. After filtration, the filter is weighed before and after collecting the residue. The difference in weight reflects the total mass of suspended solids in the volume of water that was filtered.

This method is preferred because it provides a direct measurement of the physical solids present in the liquid, thus giving an accurate representation of the TSS in the wastewater sample. Other methods, such as chemical analysis or visual estimation, do not provide the direct measurement required for TSS and can lead to inaccuracies. Measuring electrical conductivity is related to dissolved solids rather than suspended solids, further confirming that the filtration method is the standard for TSS determination.