Sample and test sludge
Version 1 - Last updated 23rd July 2025
Sludge sampling and testing requirements depend on the disposal pathway.
The purpose of sampling and testing of sludge is:
- To check for the detection of ZDHC MRSL substances as an indicator of deliberate use in input chemical formulations.
- To confirm requirements for the major disposal pathway are met through detection of metals and other applicable conventional parameters.
Disposal pathway A testing requirements
- Test ZDHC MRSL substances
- Test % solids
Disposal pathway B testing requirements
- Test ZDHC MRSL substances
- Test % solids
Disposal pathway C testing requirements
- Test ZDHC MRSL substances
- Test % solids
Disposal pathway D testing requirements
- Test ZDHC MRSL substances.
- Test listed metals to check if they exceed the threshold limit values. If a listed metal(s) exceeds the threshold value, test metal leachate(s).
- Test for conventional parameters (pH, faecal coliform, % solids and paint filter test) and cyanide as applicable.
Disposal pathway E testing requirements
- Test ZDHC MRSL substances.
- Test listed metals to check if they exceed the threshold limit values. If a listed metal(s) exceeds the threshold value, test metal leachate(s).
- Test for conventional parameters (pH, faecal coliform, % solids and paint filter test) and cyanide as applicable.
Disposal pathway F testing requirements
- Test ZDHC MRSL substances.
- Test listed metals to check if they exceed the threshold limit values. If a listed metal(s) exceeds the threshold value, test metal leachate(s).
- Test for conventional parameters (pH, faecal coliform, % solids and paint filter test) and cyanide as applicable.
Disposal pathway G testing requirements
- Test ZDHC MRSL substances.
- Test listed metals to check if they exceed the threshold limit values. If a listed metal(s) exceeds the threshold value, test metal leachate(s).
- Test for conventional parameters (pH, faecal coliform, % solids and paint filter test) and cyanide as applicable.