Conductivity and Total Dissolved Solids

Introduction
Conductivity is an important parameter for these highly saline industrial water samples.
Through the use of a conversion factor, the conductivity value can be used to determine
an estimated TDS value for the sample. Users can then use this TDS value, and past
sample results, to estimate the appropriate dilution factor needed to analyze other
parameters to track treatment process efficiencies and to identify water quality changes.

Recommended Instrumentation
Produced and flowback water have conductivity values that are in the mS/cm range, ~10
200+ mS/cm (~10 150 g/L as TDS). As Figure 1 shows, to accurately measure
conductivity values at this elevated level it is necessary to use a 4pole conductivity cell
with an enhancement from either graphite, stainless steel, or platinum1.

Figure 1 Conductivity guidelines

Matrix Challenges
Due to the high ranges of conductivity in these sample matrices, it is recommended to use
a metal enhanced 4pole cell. Users that don't have this type of cell can dilute the sample
to get it into the appropriate range for the cell's specifications. However, laboratory studies
have shown it's possible to produce a 30% increase in conductivity values with the diluted
samples compared to the undiluted samples. Hach recommends not diluting the samples
for conductivity measurements to avoid this error.
Figure 2 shows some of the effects of an increase in conductivity on diluted samples.

1 The enhanced 4-poled cells have a layer of metal (graphite, stainless steel, or platinum) on the poles to minimize the effects
of polarization and increase the concentration range. (For more information on conductivity theory, download the Conductivity
Theory and Practice from the Hach website.)

Procedures Explained: Conductivity and Total Dissolved Solids

Figure 2 Effects of increased conductivity on diluted samples

Sample1

Undiluted

Diluted

%Diff

235

344

31.7

208

258.8

19.6

197.1

245.8

19.8

174.5

205.2

15.0

Samples were diluted 1:1 and the conductivity measured. The value was then multiplied by 2 to get the final diluted result.

Higher sample conductivities will produce larger positive errors when the sample is
diluted.
The conductivity cells were calibrated using a single point calibration using three different
standards, 1408 S/cm, 12.85 mS/cm, and 111.3 mS/cm standard; none of the three
calibrations improved the difference between the undiluted and diluted samples. However,
it is always recommended to calibrate using a calibration standard that approximates the
range of conductivity values expected in the sample to be tested. Figure 3 provides
guidance on choosing the appropriate standard concentration.

Procedures Explained: Conductivity and Total Dissolved Solids

Figure 3 Guidelines for choosing a conductivity cell and standard

Conductivity standards provided by Hach

111.3 mS/cm KCl Standard (1 D) part number S51M001

12.85 mS/cm KCl Standard (0.1D) part number S51M002

1408 S/cm KCl Standard (0.01 D) part number S51M003

TDS factors
The different Hach Company meter platforms offer direct measurements for TDS; it is up
to the operator to select the type of conversion factor that best matches the true TDS
value. The TDS is typically used to estimate the amount of total dissolved solids in the
sample. The standard method to determine TDS is to filter and evaporate the sample to
dryness at 180C, then weigh the residue. Hach Method 8163 is available for determining
the total dissolved solids using the standard method. If required, Method 8163 can be
used to determine the conversion factor for a specific solution or sample matrix.
To determine the conversion factor for a specific solution of a known TDS value, measure
the solution's conductivity and divide the mg/L TDS value by the conductivity value
reported. For example, a solution of a known TDS value of 64 g/L and the measured
conductivity value of 100 mS/cm has a conversion factor of 64/100 or 0.64. It is important
to know the conversion factor being used, especially when comparing your TDS results
with another lab's results, another test site or when comparing results with previously
published or referenced data.
The different TDS concentration conversion options for the HQd meters are as sodium
chloride (NaCl), a generic default factor of 0.5, or a userentered custom value. The
operator can choose any factor within the custom field; a common factor for high salinity
samples is 0.64. For the MP6 meter, the TDS factor options are as NaCl, as potassium
chloride (KCl), 442 and userentered. The MP6's meter default is the KCl which is used for
conductivity, the NaCl is used for resistivity (mineral/salt), the 442 factor is an algorithm
that is used for estimating TDS in natural waters, and the userentered factor option.

Procedures Explained: Conductivity and Total Dissolved Solids

Maintenance
Due to the nature of the produced and flowback water, the operator needs to be sure to
rinse the conductivity cell off with clean water. Do not allow the cell to soak, or store the
cell in these samples. Once the cell has been rinsed off, blot and store dry.

Ordering information
To order one of the 4pole conductivity cells, refer to Table 1. For more meter and probe
options, visit www.hach.com.
Table 1 CDC401 Graphite Conductivity Cell ordering information

10

Description

Item number

Conductivity Cell (lab), with 1 M cable

CDC40101

Conductivity Cell (lab), with 3 M cable (lab)

CDC40103

Conductivity Cell (rugged), with 5 M cable

CDC40105

Conductivity Cell (rugged), with 10 M cable

CDC40110

Conductivity Cell (rugged), with 15 M cable

CDC40115

Conductivity Cell (rugged), with 30 M cable

CDC40130