vesianalyysiin

Vesianalyysi (water analysis) is the systematic examination of water samples to determine physical, chemical and biological properties. It is used to assess drinking water quality, surface and groundwater, wastewater, and process water in industry. The procedure typically begins with sample collection and preservation to prevent changes before analysis. Field measurements may include pH, temperature, electrical conductivity and dissolved oxygen, using portable multiparameter meters. In the laboratory, a range of analytical techniques is employed: titrimetric methods for alkalinity or hardness; spectrophotometric colorimetry for nutrients and pollutants; chromatography (ion chromatography, gas or liquid chromatography) for ions, pesticides and organic compounds; atomic absorption spectroscopy or inductively coupled plasma methods for trace metals; and microbiological assays for indicators such as total coliforms and Escherichia coli.

Common parameters include pH, conductivity, turbidity, dissolved oxygen, nutrients (nitrate, nitrite, ammonium, phosphate), chemical oxygen demand (COD), biological oxygen demand (BOD), total suspended solids, metals (lead, arsenic, cadmium), and contaminants of emerging concern. Results are interpreted against national or international standards (ISO, EPA, WHO guidelines) to determine compliance and risk.

Quality control is essential, involving calibration, blanks, reference standards, and replicate analyses. Vesianalyysi informs environmental monitoring, drinking-water safety, wastewater treatment optimization and regulatory reporting. Ongoing development in the field focuses on lower detection limits, faster methods, and the analysis of increasingly complex mixtures.