Wastewater detection is a crucial part of environmental monitoring. Its core lies in accurately assessing the content of pollutants to ensure that the discharge complies with environmental protection standards. This article systematically sorts out the key methods, processes, and industry specifications of wastewater detection, providing an operational environmental management plan for enterprises.

 

I. Core Methods of Wastewater Detection

1. Physical Detection Technology

Physical methods handle suspended solids through means such as screening and filtration. Commonly used technologies include the suspended solids screening method (removing particles ≥0.45μm), the filter screen filtration method, as well as temperature and turbidity detection, which intuitively reflect the physical characteristics of wastewater.

 

2. Chemical Detection Technology

The chemical method targets acid - base substances, heavy metals, and organic matter pollution:

- Neutralization Method: Adjust the pH value of wastewater to neutral.

- Chemical Precipitation Method: Add reagents to precipitate heavy metals.

- Activated Carbon Adsorption: Efficiently remove organic matter and some ions.

 

3. Biological Treatment Technology

Utilize microorganisms to degrade organic matter. For example, the aerated biological treatment method accelerates the decomposition of pollutants by microorganisms in an oxygen - rich environment, which is suitable for organic wastewater in industries such as food and papermaking.

 

4. Optical and Membrane Treatment Technology

- Ultraviolet Disinfection: Kill pathogenic microorganisms.

- Reverse Osmosis Method: Retain dissolved substances and microorganisms, which is widely used in high - purity water treatment.

 

II. Standardized Operation of the Detection Process

1. Sample Collection and Preservation

Select sampling points according to the detection target. Samples should be stored in the dark and refrigerated and sent for inspection within 48 hours to prevent changes in composition.

 

2. Pretreatment and Analysis

- Removal of Suspended Solids: Pre - filtration or centrifugal separation.

- Instrument Selection: Use a spectrophotometer to measure COD, an electrode method to measure ammonia - nitrogen, and gas chromatography to analyze volatile organic compounds.

 

3. Data Verification and Reporting

Ensure the accuracy of data through comparison with quality control samples. The report should cover the detection method, results, and conclusions, and comply with regulations such as the "Integrated Wastewater Discharge Standard" (GB8978 - 1996).

 

III. Key Detection Indicators and Limits

- Routine Indicators: pH value (6 - 9), COD (≤100mg/L), BOD5 (≤30mg/L).

- Toxic Substances: Lead (≤0.1mg/L), Cadmium (≤0.01mg/L), Mercury (≤0.001mg/L).

- Nutrient Salts: Ammonia - nitrogen (≤15mg/L), Total Phosphorus (≤0.5mg/L).

 

IV. Comparison of Wastewater Treatment Technologies

| Technology Type | Applicable Scenarios | Treatment Efficiency |

|----------|----------|----------|

| Activated Carbon Adsorption | Low - concentration organic matter | 80% - 95% |

| Reverse Osmosis | High - salt wastewater | 90% - 99% |

| Biofilm Method | Organic wastewater | 70% - 85% |

 

V. Key Points of Regulatory Compliance

Enterprises need to regularly entrust third - party testing institutions to conduct wastewater detection, apply for a pollution discharge permit in accordance with the "Water Pollution Prevention and Control Law", and will face fines or suspension of production for rectification for illegal discharge.

Through scientific detection means and standardized management, enterprises can not only meet environmental protection requirements but also optimize treatment costs and achieve sustainable development.