Volatile suspended solids

Volatile suspended solids (VSS) is an analytical parameter representing, loosely, the undissolved organic matter in a water sample. More technically, it a water quality parameter obtained from the loss on ignition of total suspended solids. This ignition generally takes place in an oven at a temperature of 550 °C to 600 °C. It represents the amount of volatile matter present in the undissolved solid fraction of the measured solution.

External links and further reading

 * National Programme on Technology Enhanced Learning
 * Environmental Business Specialists