Organic Matter in Sewage Sludge: Analysis Methods and Applications

TS 8336: Soils - Determination of Organic Matter

What is Organic Matter in Soil?

Organic matter is the sum of the components formed as a result of the decomposition of substances of plant and animal origin in the soil.

What are the Sources of Organic Matter?

1. Plant Remains: Decomposition of plant parts such as leaves, branches and roots.
2. Animal Wastes: Fertilizer and other biological materials.
3. Soil Microorganisms: Decomposition products of organisms.

What are the Functions of Organic Matter in Soil?

• Soil fertility: Providing necessary nutrients for plants.
• Soil Structure: Increases water holding capacity and aeration.
• Carbon Storage: Plays an important role in the carbon cycle.
• Erosion Control: Strengthens the physical structure of the soil.

What is the Purpose and Scope of TS 8336 Standard?

TS 8336 aims to measure the amount of organic matter in soil accurately and reliably. The standard is widely used, especially in agriculture, forestry and environmental management.

Scope of the Standard

1. Defining the methods to be used for the determination of organic matter.
2. To ensure that analysis results are reproducible and verifiable.
3. To provide guidelines for soil sample preparation and analysis processes.

Organic Matter Determination Methods

The two basic methods generally used in the TS 8336 standard are as follows:

1. Walkley-Black Method (Dichromate Oxidation Method): This method determines the amount of organic carbon by oxidation of soil organic matter. Soil organic matter is oxidized using potassium dichromate (K₂Cr₂O₇) and sulfuric acid (H₂SO₄). The amount of carbon dioxide (CO₂) formed during oxidation is calculated.
2. Muffle Furnace Method (Dry Incineration Method): This method involves the determination of organic matter by burning at high temperature (usually 400-600 °C). The soil sample is burned in an oven to completely destroy the organic matter and the weight lost is measured. The total amount of organic matter is determined by the weight loss.
3. Modified Methods: In some cases, modifications of standard methods adapted to local needs may also be used.

Reporting according to TS 8336 Standard

The results of the analysis are reported as percentage of soil organic matter (% OM). For example

• Low Organic Matter: below 1%
• Medium Organic Matter: 1-3
• High Organic Matter: above 3

Nanolab Laboratories Group continues to provide services within the scope of Organic Matter Determination in Sewage Sludge. We also provide services in Waste Analysis.

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