Synchronous fluorescence spectroscopy of wastewater and some potential constituents

Synchronous fluorescence spectra (SFS) of sewage samples from three different sewage treatment plants show well-defined and reproducible structure when recorded with an off-set wavelength of 20 nm. The major peak at about 280 nm is attributed primarily to the biodegradable aromatic hydrocarbon constituent. This conclusion is based on conventional and SF spectroscopic analysis of the sewage samples (both settled sewage and final effluent) and their potential chromophoric constituents. The peak at about 380 nm in the SFS of the sewage samples is found to be mainly due to the non-biodegradable component.