This method of measuring colour can be applied to sulphate (kraft) and sulphite pulp mill effluents, providing their colours closely match the colour of the standard platinum-cobalt solution. The method cannot be applied to effluents of unusual colour, i.e., to dyed solutions.
The colour of an effluent is expressed in arbitrary colour units. One colour unit (C.U.) is equivalent to the absorption of light at the wavelength of 465 nm by 1 mg/L of platinum in the platinum-cobalt standard solution.
The testing and evaluation of a product against this method may require the use of materials and/or equipment that could be hazardous. This document does not purport to address all the safety aspects associated with its use. Anyone using this method has the responsibility to consult the appropriate authorities and to establish appropriate health and safety practices in conjunction with any existing applicable regulatory requirements prior to its use.
