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D5907-18 – Standard Test Method Technical Guide
ASTM D5907-18 provides standardized, operationally defined test methods for measuring filterable matter (Total Dissolved Solids, TDS) and nonfilterable matter (Total Suspended Solids, TSS) in water. These methods are essential for characterizing water quality in drinking water systems, surface waters, saline environments, and industrial or domestic waste streams.
⚠️ Critical Application Constraint: Results are entirely dependent on strict adherence to the specified procedure. Crucially, the TSS test method must never be applied to samples collected from open channel flow (e.g., rivers, streams); such samples require Test Methods D3977. For specific safety hazards, consult Section 8 of the standard.
📐 Scope, Definitions, and Methods Overview
The standard defines filterable matter (TDS) as dissolved matter passing a glass fiber filter, dried to constant weight at 180°C. Nonfilterable matter (TSS) is the retained particulate. The methods cover drinking water, surface water, saline waters, and domestic/industrial wastes.
| 🟦 Test Method | 📏 Parameter | 🎯 Units | ⚡ Practical Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Method A (Sections 10 – 14) | TDS & TSS | mg/L | TDS: 10 mg/L – 150,000 µg/g TSS: 4 – 20,000 mg/L |
| Method B (Sections 15 – 19) | TDS (High Precision) | µg/g | High Sensitivity Detection |
⚙️ Procedural Highlights and Specifications
Sample collection must follow Practices D3370 for closed conduits. The procedure involves filtering a well-mixed sample through a weighed glass fiber filter. The retained solids on the filter are dried and weighed to determine TSS. The filtrate is evaporated, dried to constant weight at 180°C, and weighed to determine TDS. Laboratories should strictly adhere to the quality control measures outlined in Section 20, following Practices D5847 and Guide D3856.
| 📌 Parameter | 🔬 Specification |
|---|---|
| Filtration Medium | Glass Fiber Filter |
| TDS Drying Temperature | 180°C (constant weight) |
| TSS Drying Temperature | 103–105°C (constant weight) |
| Reference Water | Reagent Water per D1193 |
| Balance Testing | Practices E319 or E898 |
💡 Operational Guidance: For TDS, the practical range for Test Method A spans from 10 mg/L up to 150,000 µg/g. Test Method B is designed specifically for high-precision TDS analysis, reporting results in µg/g. Always verify that the sample matrix matches the applicable scope of the chosen test method.
📊 Interlaboratory Studies and Supporting Standards
Precision and bias data for these test methods are established according to Practice D2777. The standard is supported by numerous ASTM standards, including Terminology D1129, Test Methods D1429 for specific gravity, and Practice D5905 for the preparation of substitute wastewater. Proper use of these supporting documents is essential for generating defensible and repeatable results.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
🔍 What is the upper practical limit for TSS in this standard?
The practical range for the determination of nonfilterable matter (TSS) using Test Method A is 4 to 20,000 mg/L.
💡 Why is TDS considered an “operationally defined” parameter?
The numerical result depends entirely on the specific procedural steps, most critically the filter type and the drying temperature of 180°C. Different operational definitions can yield different results for the same sample.
⚡ What distinguishes Test Method A from Test Method B?
Test Method A is the standard procedure for determining both TDS and TSS in mg/L. Test Method B is a specialized, high-precision procedure for TDS alone, with results reported in µg/g (equivalent to mg/kg).
📌 Can I use D5907-18 for river sediment measurements?
No. Section 1.3 explicitly prohibits the use of the TSS method for samples from open channel flow. Test Methods D3977 are the correct standards for determining sediment concentration in such environments.