Testing by Vanguard Laboratory · Olympia, Washington360-967-7010

General chemistry

ASTM D3977: Suspended sediment concentration (SSC)

Scope ASTM D3977 for suspended sediment concentration (ssc). Define sample matrix, preparation, reporting limits and project requirements.

Suspended sediment concentration (SSC) measurement context

ASTM D3977: the sediment in the whole sample is separated by filtration or evaporation, dried and weighed. Because the whole sample is used, SSC includes sand that a subsample for total suspended solids can miss. Reported as mg/L.

Define where the property is measured

Specify field or laboratory measurement, units and the sample state needed for the project. A delivered sample may not preserve the source-time condition for a changing property.

Include the complete project requirement

Provide the matrix, target analytes, required method, fraction, units and reporting limits. Include the permit or monitoring instructions where results will support a regulatory submission. Naming this method does not establish blanket compliance eligibility.

Resolve collection before sampling

Use the bottle, preservation and delivery instructions assigned to the agreed scope. Identify each location and collection time, and document any deviation. The final analytical plan must fit the submitted material and its intended use.

Related testing & guidance

Technical & service references

Vanguard service details

Source review: November 8, 2026. The agreed method and project scope govern the testing.

Start with a defined scope

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Tell us the sample, the question and the decision your results need to support.

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