The potential for a simple method for in-situ faecal sludge pH determinations

pH is a critical parameter for faecal sludge characterisation. However, basic laboratory facilities with such instrumentation are not always available in resource limited contexts. Furthermore, the operational importance (e.g. during lime stabilisation) of this parameter warrants a method that can be applied in situ. This study assesses the potential of a method for in faecal sludge pH determinations using a commercially-available soil pH meter. Results reveal that this simple and low-cost method can relatively reasonably estimate pH when compared to a conventional laboratory pH meter. Further work is necessary to better characterise its limitations.