ASTM D6238 Total Oxygen Demand (TOD) Testing for Water
ASTM D6238-13 test method is used to determine total oxygen demand (TOD) in water and wastewater including brackish waters and brines. Samples that have higher concentrations or contain suspended solids, or both, TOD is determined by diluting the sample.
TRUSTED BY
Precision-driven testing for dimensional accuracy and compliance
- Overview
- Scope, Applications, and Benefits
- Test Process
- Specifications
- Instrumentation
- Results and Deliverables
Overview
ASTM D6238-13 is a standardized test method used to determine the total oxygen demand (TOD) in water samples. TOD represents the amount of oxygen required to oxidize organic and inorganic substances present, providing a rapid and comprehensive measure of overall water contamination. It is widely used for assessing water quality and pollution levels.
The method utilizes high-temperature combustion to oxidize substances in the sample, with oxygen consumption measured to quantify demand. Compared to conventional methods, it offers faster results and broader detection of oxidizable materials, making it suitable for monitoring and control of water quality.
Scope, Applications, and Benefits
Scope
ASTM D6238-13 defines procedures for measuring total oxygen demand in water using combustion-based techniques, ensuring accurate and reproducible results for various water types.
- Applicable to potable, surface, and wastewater samples
- Measures both organic and inorganic oxidizable substances
- Uses high-temperature combustion oxidation
- Suitable for rapid water quality assessment
- Provides quantitative oxygen demand values
Applications
- Water quality monitoring
- Pollution assessment studies
- Industrial discharge evaluation
- Environmental compliance monitoring
- Process control in treatment systems
- Research and laboratory analysis
Benefits
- Rapid determination of oxygen demand
- Measures total oxidizable content
- High accuracy and reproducibility
- Suitable for diverse water samples
- Supports environmental monitoring
- Reduces analysis time compared to traditional methods
Test Process
Sample Introduction
Water sample is injected into the combustion system under controlled conditions.
1High-Temperature Oxidation
Sample is combusted to oxidize all organic and inorganic substances.
2Oxygen Consumption Measurement
Oxygen used during oxidation is precisely measured by the instrument.
3Result Calculation
Total oxygen demand is calculated based on oxygen consumption data.
4Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Property Measured | Total oxygen demand representing oxidizable substances present in water. |
| Material Type | Water samples including potable, surface, and wastewater. |
| Method | High-temperature combustion with oxygen consumption measurement. |
| Measurement Unit | Reported in milligrams per liter (mg/L) of oxygen demand. |
| Output | Quantitative TOD value indicating total oxidizable load. |
| Sensitivity | High sensitivity for detecting low to high contamination levels. |
Instrumentation Used for Testing
- Total Oxygen Demand analyzer
- High-temperature combustion furnace
- Oxygen detection system
- Sample injection system
- Calibration gas setup
- Analytical balance
Results and Deliverables
- Total oxygen demand value (mg/L)
- Detailed analytical report
- Sample identification and conditions
- Calibration and QC data
- Instrument output records
- Compliance and interpretation data
Why Choose Infinita Lab for ASTM D6238-13?
With Infinita Lab (www.infinitalab.com), you are guaranteed a Nationwide Network of Accredited Laboratories spread across the USA, the best Consultants from around the world, Convenient Sample Pick-Up and Delivery, and Fast Turnaround Time.
Our team understands the stakes and subtleties of every test. Whether you’re validating a new Product, de-risking a prototype, or navigating complex compliance requirements, our specialists guide the process with rigor and clarity.
Looking for a trusted partner to achieve your research goals? Schedule a meeting with us, send us a request, or call us at (888) 878-3090 to learn more about our services and how we can support you. Request a Quote
Frequently Asked Questions
ASTM D6238-13 is used to determine total oxygen demand in water, providing a rapid and comprehensive measure of all oxidizable substances, which helps assess overall water pollution and quality effectively.
Total oxygen demand indicates the total amount of oxygen required to oxidize organic and inorganic compounds present in water, reflecting the overall pollution load and contamination level of the sample.
Unlike COD and BOD, TOD measures total oxidizable substances using combustion, providing faster and more complete oxidation results, including compounds that may not be fully captured in conventional chemical or biological methods.
The method is applicable to various water types, including drinking water, surface water, industrial wastewater, and treated effluents, making it versatile for different monitoring and analysis requirements.
TOD testing provides a quick and comprehensive measure of pollution, helping identify contamination levels, evaluate treatment efficiency, and support environmental compliance and regulatory monitoring programs.
Request a Quote
Submit your material details and receive testing procedures, pricing, and turnaround time within 24 hours.
Quick Turnaround and Hasslefree process
Confidentiality Guarantee
Free, No-obligation Consultation
100% Customer Satisfaction
