Mastering Total Organic Carbon Calculations

Everything You Need to Calculate Total Organic Carbon Levels Accurately

Total organic carbon (TOC) is a crucial measurement for understanding the amount of organic contamination in a sample. Whether you work in the pharmaceutical, semiconductor, or power industry, it is essential to understand the basics of TOC calculations. To help you achieve accurate TOC measurements, this page offers an overview of TOC calculations and how our solutions can assist you.

Mastering Total Organic Carbon Calculations

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Total Organic Carbon Calculation: Understanding the Basics

TOC calculations determine the amount of organic carbon in a sample by measuring the amount of carbon dioxide produced when the sample is oxidized. This is usually achieved by using a total organic carbon analyzer.

Accurate TOC calculations are important for several reasons:

To indicate the quality of a sample
To detect the presence of pollutants and contaminants
To meet regulatory requirements and ensure that products meet quality standards

Understanding TOC Calculations

TOC is often calculated based on differential conductivity measurements. During this type of analysis, these organics are chemically oxidized, generating carbon dioxide (CO2), which reacts to form carbonic acid. This process increases water conductivity, which is directly proportional to the concentration of oxidizable organic carbon. By quantifying the change in conductivity, the concentration of TOC can be calculated.

TOC Calculation Challenges

It's important to differentiate between organic and inorganic carbon. It's crucial to identify the conductivity signal that comes from inorganic carbon and subtract its contribution from the overall signal. Failing to distinguish between the two can result in inaccurate measurements of TOC. Advanced analytical techniques and sophisticated instruments are needed to address this challenge and precisely detect and quantify both carbon components.

The Role of TOC in Quality Control in the Pharmaceutical Industry

TOC measurements play a crucial role in the pharmaceutical industry. TOC analysis is used in multiple applications, including monitoring the quality of water for use as purified water and water for injection. By monitoring for the presence of organic contaminants, TOC testing contributes to the integrity and safety of pharmaceutical products and processes.

Automated TOC Calculations

The continuous and automated TOC measurements provided by METTLER TOLEDO's online TOC analyzers deliver accurate and reliable data in real time. This real-time data enables better control over water quality and allows operators to make informed decisions when excursions occur. TOC analyzers significantly elevate the quality, reliability, and speed of water quality assessments, making them indispensable tools for industries requiring precise monitoring and control of organic carbon levels.

Ensure Accurate TOC Measurements to Meet Regulatory Compliance

Our online TOC analyzers provide continuous, reliable TOC measurements, making them a valuable tool to meet the regulatory requirements of all major global pharmacopeial bodies. Continuous TOC analysis gives you real-time data to tell you exactly when an excursion starts and ends. This helps you maintain compliance and gives you complete control over the quality of your water system.