Leaching tests for waste compliance and characterisation: recent practical experiences

The round-robin exercise that has been carried out recently under the EC Measurement and Testing Programme has provided a unique opportunity to directly compare the performance characteristics of different leaching tests, through the use of a single standardised material. The results from all the participants have now been analysed by the organisation committee, chaired by ECN (The Netherlands). However, this paper summarises the results and experiences of just one participating laboratory. The results of four leaching tests (Dutch Tank and Maximum Availability Tests, DIN Test and the modified Draft CEN Waste Compliance Test) are compared and practical considerations are highlighted. In addition, the need for quality assurance/quality control procedures is stressed, in particular the requirement for standard reference materials for leaching tests.