Waste Characterization Study

Waste characterization is the term used for the process of determining the chemical, biological, and physical characteristics, as well as the quantity, mass flow rates, strengths (in terms of concentration), and discharge schedule, of a wastewater stream, air discharge, or solid waste stream. A waste characterization program must be carefully thought out and properly executed. The foundation of the study is a sampling and analysis program, which must be performed on representative samples. The equipment used to measure rates of flow and to physically obtain samples must be appropriate to the application and accurately calibrated.

There are three general categories of waste characterization study in common use: the Wastewater (or Air Discharge, or Solid Wastes Stream) Characterization Study, the Environmental Audit, and the Waste Audit. The appropriate choice among these three categories, for a given application, depends upon the principal purpose of the study. A Waste Characterization Study (Wastewater, Air Discharge, or Solid Wastes Stream) is usually carried out for the purpose of obtaining design criteria for a waste treatment facility, with a concurrent pollution prevention program. An Environmental Audit is performed for the purpose of assessing a plant s state of compliance with various environmental regulations, and a Waste Audit is carried out for the purpose of assessing opportunities to minimize the amount of waste generated through improved efficiency or through substitution of nonhazardous substance(s) for one or more of those that are classified as hazardous. In each case, choices are made as to the location of...