What does the Total Volatile Solids measurement compare?

Total Volatile Solids (TVS) is a measurement used to assess the amount of organic matter in wastewater. It specifically compares the dry weight of a sample to the amount of ash weight after combustion. This is important because it helps to determine the organic content of the solids present in wastewater, which directly influences treatment processes and the overall functionality of a wastewater treatment facility.

The dry weight of a sample refers to the weight of the solids after all moisture has been removed, while the ash weight is the residual weight remaining after burning the sample at a high temperature, thus eliminating all organic materials. By analyzing the relationship between these two weights, operators can infer the proportion of volatile (organic) material in the solids, which is crucial for assessing the biodegradability and treatment potential of the wastewater.

This measurement is critical in municipal wastewater treatment processes, where managing organic content is key to effective biological treatment and ensuring that the facility operates efficiently.