§4.1.4 Sampling strategies to deal with homogeneity/ heterogeneity

A basic condition for reliable results from sampling is that samples are representative for the waste composition. In the case of waste this is often complex since on the one hand pollutants may be distributed non-homogenously throughout the waste and on the other hand certain wastes additionally show a heterogeneous matrix (1). Following EN 14899:2005, heterogeneity is the degree to which one constituent is non-uniformly distributed across the sample population. By contrast, homogeneity can be seen as the degree to which one constituent is uniformly distributed across the sample population. MS specific technical guidelines may exist which provide further information on sampling strategies addressing heterogeneity of waste (2). If the heterogeneity of the waste is minimized as far as feasible, CEN/TR 15310-1:2006 and partly also CEN/TR 15310-2:2006 provide a holistic overview on sampling strategies to deal with heterogeneous and homogeneous waste types. It is important to already adapt the sampling plan to the heterogeneity of the waste to be sampled.

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Source: EUR-Lex (Cellar) · retrieved 2026-09-07