Waste Characterization

When a waste is not a waste

Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP) EPA Method 1311

TCLP testing is generally performed for waste disposal purposes to adequately characterize a waste material for RCRA characteristics. The purpose of the TCLP is to simulate the leaching potential of a waste sample in a sanitary landfill by determining the mobility of specific organic and inorganic anlaytes by extraction with an acetic acid solution. TCLP is used to determine if a waste is hazardous. Prior to laboratory analysis, the TCLP extraction is performed to create the leachate sample. When TCLP volatile organics are requested,a special Zero Headspace Extraction (ZHE) is performed to eliminate the loss of VOCs during the leaching procedure.

Synthetic Precipitation Leaching Procedure (SPLP) EPA Method 1312

While TCLP is used for waste disposal purposes, SPLP is used to determine the potential for soil contamination to leach into groundwater. SPLP is commonly used when evaluating the risk of leaching. The SPLP and TCLP extraction methods are nearly identical, with the the main exception of the extraction fluid used. SPLP uses nitric and sulfuric acid, while TCLP uses acetic acid. SPLP is often performed to assist in the determination of acceptable in-situ soil concentrations.

TriMatrix performs the following waste testing methods:

  • Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure (TCLP) EPA 1311
  • Synthetic Precipitation Leaching Procedure (SPLP) EPA 1312
  • Reactivity: Cyanide & Sulfide
  • Flash Point – Ignitability
  • Corrosivity
  • TCLP/SPLP Volatile Organic Compounds 1311/8260
  • TCLP/SPLP Semi-Volatile Organic Compounds 1311/8270
  • TCLP/SPLP Pesticides 1311/8081/8270
  • TCLP/SPLP Herbicides 1311/8151/8270
  • TCLP/SPLP Metals 1311/6010/6020/7470
  • Total PCBs
  • Total Organic Halogens (TOX)

Specialty Waste Extraction Procedures

  • Multiple Extraction Procedure 1320
  • Oily Waste Extraction Procedure 1330
  • Cyanide Extraction 9013