Understanding the Importance of TOC in Environmental Science

Total Organic Carbon (TOC) refers to the level of organic molecules or contaminants in purified water. Many institutions and organisations use TOC to analyse water to discover whether the water is suitable for their research processes. All water, no matter how pure it may be, contains some level of carbon materials, which are introduced from the water source or from the purification or production process.

So, why is it so important to understand the TOC of water in environmental science? In the pharmaceutical industry, water purity is vital as high-quality water is a key ingredient in many processes. Ensuring that the water is clean and pure can help to eliminate contamination and bacterial impact.

TOC applications

TOC is highly important when it comes to detecting contaminants in drinking water, cooling water and water for pharmaceutical use. The measurement of organic molecules in water is vital due to the impact they could have on the environment, human health and manufacturing processes. Without understanding the exact levels of carbon in our water, we may be at risk of disease, contamination and pollution.

One of the most common uses for TOC in chemical analysis is to measure the levels of molecules in potential petroleum source rock when exploring for oil. A value of around 0.5% total organic carbon is considered to be the minimum when looking for an effective source rock, with values of 2% being the minimum for shale gas reservoirs. TOC monitoring is highly important in chemical industries, minimising waste, preventing product loss and controlling waste water treatment plants.

Importance of TOC

As the need for sustainability and the awareness of environmental concerns grows, organisations are paying much more attention to their carbon footprint. One of the ways to do so is by regularly measuring TOC and ensuring their water supply is not harmful to the environment or to those consuming or using the water.

As TOC is a highly sensitive, non-specific measurement of all organic molecules present in a sample, it can be used to regulate the chemical discharge into the environment. Organic compounds, found in water, combine with other elements once they are released into the environment to produce molecules that can be harmful to products and the environment.

So, TOC can control the use of water in environmental science, ensuring all water used in manufacturing and supplying homes is of a high standard. As well as controlling water purity levels, TOC can provide validation of water cleaning methods, ensuring all industries are meeting the same expectations.