Standard Specification for Silica-Based Sediments for the Evaluation of Stormwater Treatment Devices

1.1 This specification covers the minerology, specific gravity, and particle size distributions (PSDs) of silica-based sediments to be used in the laboratory performance testing of stormwater treatment devices as well as criteria defining acceptable error for the target PSDs.

1.2 Silica-based sediment is used as a surrogate material for performance and scour determinations for some manufactured stormwater treatment devices such as hydrodynamic separators and filters. These data are used to gain regulatory approvals within certain jurisdictions.

1.3 Acceptance of test results attained according to this specification may be subject to specific requirements set by a Quality Assurance Project Plan, a specific verification protocol, or a policy set by an Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). It is advised to review one or all of the above to ensure compliance.

1.4 The values stated in inch-pound units are to be regarded as standard, except for methods to establish and report sediment concentration and particle size. It is convention to exclusively describe sediment concentration in mg/L and particle size in mm or μm, both of which are SI units. The SI units given in parentheses are mathematical conversions, which are provided for information purposes only and are not considered standard. Reporting of test results in units other than inch-pound units shall be regarded as conforming with this test method.

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use. Silica-based sediment is considered hazardous under the OSHA Hazard Communications Standard (29 CFR 1910.1200).

1.6 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.