Total Suspended Solid or TSS

TSS Calculation

A1 Weight (mg): A2 Weight (mg): Sample Volume (ml):

Result: --- mg/L

Total Suspended Solid or (TSS)

Total Suspended Solids (TSS) measure the concentration of undissolved particles suspended in water, serving as a critical indicator of water quality. These particles, larger than 2 microns, include inorganic materials (e.g., silt, sand) and organic matter (e.g., algae, bacteria)1 2 5. TSS directly impacts water clarity, ecosystem health, and human activities, making its monitoring essential for environmental management.

Definition and Measurement

Composition: TSS encompasses particles retained by a filter during filtration, excluding dissolved solids1 7. Common components include sediment, industrial waste, and biological matter5.
Measurement:
- Samples are filtered through a pre-weighed filter, dried at 103–105°C, and reweighed to determine the residue mass14.
- Results are expressed in mg/L, with adjustments made for filter size and sample volume to ensure accuracy46.
- The ASTM D 3977 method is recommended for suspended-sediment concentration (SSC) in open-channel flows, as TSS data alone may not fully represent SSC6.

Environmental and Human Impacts

Ecosystem Effects:
- High TSS reduces light penetration, inhibiting photosynthesis and disrupting aquatic food chains2 5 7.
- Settling particles can smother benthic organisms and fish eggs2 5.
- Elevated levels may lead to hypoxia (low oxygen) due to increased microbial decomposition7.
Human Health and Infrastructure:
- Murky water complicates navigation and increases flood risks by altering riverbed topography2 5.
- While low TSS is generally safe, high concentrations may harbor pathogens or pollutants3 5.

Regulatory and Practical Considerations

Water Quality Standards: TSS is classified as a conventional pollutant under the U.S. Clean Water Act, with limits set to protect aquatic life and human uses1 6.
Synonym Terms: Also referred to as Total Suspended Matter (TSM) or Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM)1 3.
Comparison with Related Metrics:
- Turbidity: Measures water clarity via light scattering, correlating with TSS but not providing mass-based data2 5.
- Total Dissolved Solids (TDS): Includes particles smaller than 2 microns, requiring evaporation for measurement5 7.

Monitoring Challenges

Sampling Methods: Isokinetic samplers and cross-sectional techniques are critical for representative data in flowing water6.
Data Reliability: TSS alone may underestimate sediment flux in rivers; concurrent SSC analysis is advised for accuracy6.

In summary, TSS is a vital parameter for assessing water pollution, ecosystem health, and treatment efficacy. Its measurement and regulation help mitigate risks to biodiversity, infrastructure, and public safety.