Respirometric testing method for biodegradability of xenobiotics using compost

Abstract

A simple, accurate automated respirometer is proposed to be used for testing the biodegradability of various xenobiotics. Compost is used as a source for microorganisms. The basic principle of the respirometer is that all oxygen consumed by the microorganisms is replaced by an equal amount of oxygen produced in an electrolytic cell which is plotted against time in a registration unit.

The proposed method is illustrated with pentachlorophenol as xenobiotic compound.

The advantages of this respirometer over other common equipment is briefly discussed.

Key words:

• respirometry
• xenobiotics
• pentachlorophenol
• compost