Method for relating suspended-chemical concentrations to suspended-sediment particle-size classes in storm-water runoff

A method has been developed to relate suspended-chemical concentrations (associated with suspended sediments) in storm-water runoff to suspended-sediment particle-size classes. These classes are based on settling velocities in quiescent native water. This method requires processing 20 liters of water having a suspended-sediment concentration greater than 500 milligrams per liter. However, samples with suspended-sediment concentrations as low as 250 milligrams per liter may be analyzed, if sample volumes are increased to 50 liters. The time required for one person to separate suspended sediments into particle-size classes ranges from 6 to 14 hours. This report outlines procedures for processing metal, nutrient, and organic samples.