AN INHIBITION MONITOR FOR RAPID WASTEWATER SCREENING

Simplified. rapid, real time methods for assessing inhibition potential of wastewater are essential for controlling discharges from industrial waste generators to wastewater treatment plants. This presentation describes biomonitoring with an instrument that combines the action of living micro-organisms, representative of the treatment system, with a method of determining and recording the impact of a continuous waste stream on their respiration. The operating principle of the BIOSCAN On-line Inhibition Monitor is based on aerobic micro-organisms that require oxygen as they break down organic matter or substrate. If their activity is normal, the dissolved oxygen in the water is consumed. Toxic or inhibitory materials impair biomass respiration and little or no dissolved oxygen is used. Therefore, the quantity of dissolved oxygen and the rate at which it is consumed is an indication that the material flowing through the biological filter is biodegradable, inhibitory or toxic. Data is presented from laboratory testing and on-site monitoring of influent from the Crooked Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant in Gwinnett County (GA). Biomonitoring using this new technology combining the representative biomass and the power of modern computers will help to reduce the incidence of damage to wastewater treatment systems. This technology offers an affordable, timely alternative to Whole Effluent Toxicity testing. It is intended for routine screening of wastewater to document the treatability of wastes and to warn of potential problems.