Applications of a respirometry based toxicity monitor

The development of a respirometry based toxicity monitor is described which automatically tests samples of imported trade waste to indicate toxicity problems. The research concentrated on the development of a methodology to test acute toxicity on nitrifying sludge. The same method was used to test specific compounds that might affect the nitrification process of the activated sludge plant The use of the respirometer to test the possible toxicity of influent (intake protection) is also described. Although the method was originally intended to test inhibitory effects of tanker discharges, only minor changes to the hardware or the software prove to be necessary to use the instrument for different applications. Copyright (C) 1996 IAWQ.