Hydrochemistry Laboratory

Hydrochemistry Laboratory of the Department of Marine Biology is an accredited laboratory (accredited by Estonian Accreditation Centre) with registration number L179 (until 13.12.2030). The laboratory conducts chemical analyses of seawater, surface water, and wastewater in accordance with the EVS-EN ISO/IEC 17025:2017 standard, “General requirements for the competence of testing and calibration laboratories”.

The chemical analysis methods applied in the laboratory comply with international standards, including The Nordic countries, Finland, and ISO standards.

The following chemical methods are accredited by the Estonian Accreditation Centre (L179 ANNEX):

• the automated determination of orthophosphate;
• the automated determination of total phosphorus;
• the automated determination of nitrite nitrogen and nitrate nitrogen;
• the automated determination of total nitrogen;
• the automated determination of soluble silicates;
• determination of ammonium nitrogen;
• determination of hydrogen sulphide;
• determination of pH;
• determination of dissolved oxygen using electrochemical and optical methods;
• determination of electrical conductivity;
• determination of organic matter in marine sediments;
• determination of chemical oxygen demand (CODCr);
• determination of suspended solids.

In addition, the laboratory can perform the following chemical analyses:

• determination of biochemical oxygen demand (BHTn);
• determination of nutrients in sediments and algae;
• determination of seawater alkalinity.

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The main task of the Hydrochemistry Laboratory

To date, the laboratory’s primary task has been the analysis of nutrients within the framework of the eutrophication program, which forms part of the National Marine Environment Monitoring Program. In addition, the laboratory conducts analyses of seawater chemical indicators for research programs as well as on a contractual basis.

Daily work in the chemistry laboratory is performed in accordance with a documented quality management system. Quality assurance is maintained through internal and external quality control procedures and regular participation in national and international interlaboratory comparison tests. Analytical methods are continuously reviewed and improved to ensure compliance with international standards.