Comparison of two fractionation strategies for characterization of wastewater effluent organic matter and diagnosis of membrane fouling

► A new fractionation method for NOM was compared with the conventional method. ► The new method eliminated manipulations of pH and completely removed colloids. ► Metals were removed with the colloid and organic acid fractions with the new method. ► Metals were precipitated after pH adjustment with the conventional method. ► Colloids were produced during conventional fractionation probably due to pH changes.