An easy spectrophotometric acid-base titration protocol for dissolved organic matter

UV-vis spectrophotometric acid-base titration can characterize dissolved organic matter (DOM) acid-base properties. However, it requires incremental pH adjustment, which make the procedure time consuming and the results subjected to dilution effect. This study brings forth a new approach, referred as the “buffer method” for pH adjustments, by using carefully selected pH-buffers to adjust the pH. This, statistically validated method minimizes the pH adjustment time and lightens the laboratory work load. Chemical product cost associated with this novel method is slightly increased as compared to the previous approach, due to the necessity to use pH-buffers. • Buffer method: Acid-base titration by using buffer for pH adjustment • Buffer method validated by statistical means • Rapid, reliable and economical method