Dilution and respirometric BOD measurements and biodegradability testing
Measuring biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) is a critical process in water quality management, but the best methods for this measurement are debated. While the respirometric method may be useful for internal monitoring, it is typically compared to the more standard dilution technique widely recognized in regulatory settings. Photometric testing offers another way to measure BOD levels, providing flexibility in testing approaches. By understanding the strengths of each method, users can choose the most appropriate one for their specific needs, whether for compliance or internal quality checks.
You can learn more about different methods for measuring BOD in this extensive handbook from WTW, available for download. You can also find important information about our products for biodegradability testing.
Respirometric BOD measurement
In respirometric BOD testing, the oxygen consumed by microorganisms results in a decrease in pressure detectable by a pressure sensor. This method is practical and simple to execute and provides clear insights into microbial activity. Some advanced systems also measure the amount of methane gas produced by microorganisms, adding an extra layer of data toward understanding the biological processes at work.
Application notes
Learn more about how and where to use respirometric systems.
A guide to maintaining the equipment used for measuring BOD in soil samples and wastewater and waste treatment systems.
Learn how diluting toxic wastewater with biological water may reduce the amount of harmful substances and ensure accurate BOD measurement.
Normal domestic wastewater requires no additional treatment for BOD testing. Learn what to do if wastewater is polluted with toxic substances.
WTW respirometric systems
For decades, OxiTop® has been a trusted tool for BOD measurement and advanced respiration testing.
OxiTop®-i excels in automatically measuring BOD in undiluted samples according to DIN EN 1899-2.
OxiTop®-IDS supports BOD measurement and aerobic respirometric tests, with data available for electronic processing.
VELP Scientific
VELP Scientific develops and produces solutions for respirometric studies, focusing on accuracy and reliability.
Mercury-free measurement systems are used to determine the amount of dissolved oxygen consumed by aerobic biological microorganisms in water.
The VELP RESPIROMETRIC Sensor System 6 provides laboratories with a smart, cloud-enabled solution for performing aerobic and anaerobic respiration tests.
Dilution BOD measurement
Dilution BOD measurement
In dilution BOD testing, sample dilution ensures sufficient oxygen for microbial activity, and oxygen depletion is measured over time.
High-quality instruments with advanced technology that make measurements more convenient and reliable than ever.
Self-stirring oxygen sensor StirrOx® G for oxygen determination in Karlsruhe and Winkler bottles allows constant flow for high reproducibility.
BOD bottles come with a frosted marking area and are available with glass stoppers.
Each bottle is individually fitted with a non-interchangeable stopper; matching stoppers and bottles have the same serial number.
Photometric BOD measurement
Photometric BOD measurement
Cell testing provides an easy and efficient way to measure BOD. These tests follow a modified Winkler method and use calibrated and standard-compliant reagents for security.
- The barcode system makes operation rapid and simple.
- Comprehensive quality control documentation is provided for every test.
- Requires a 5-day incubation but has fewer handling steps than other methods.
All Spectroquant® test kits can be used with the Prove range of spectrophotometers.
Spectroquant® Prove Plus spectrophotometers are designed for analysis of wastewater, process water and drinking water and beverages.
BOD incubators
All BOD methods require samples to be kept at 20 °C (68 °F) for 5 days. Avantor® offers a wide range of temperature-controlled incubators.
Lovibond® range of thermostatically controlled cabinets
Lovibond® thermostatically controlled (TC) cabinets are available in 5 models, providing temperature control over a range of 2–40 °C (±0.1 °C) and available in capacities from 135–488 L.
The TC series of thermostatically controlled (TC) cabinets is used for continuous temperature control over a range of 2–40 °C (±0.1 °C).
VELP Scientific
The FTC 120 maintains a fixed temperature of 20 °C and has a capacity of 120 L.
The FOC Connect line of cooled incubators includes 5 models, providing temperature control over a range from 3–50 °C (±0.5 °C) and available in capacities from 109–169 L.
These cooled incubators have a refrigerated thermostat with a capacity of 120–200 L that ensures excellent connectivity and places these incubators in the A+ energy class.
These BOD incubators have been designed to maintain a constant temperature for methods requiring accurate and precise control.
OxiTop® thermostatically controlled cabinets
The OxiTop® TS line of thermostatically controlled (TC) cabinets is available in 5 models, providing adjustable temperature control between 10 and 40 °C (±0.5 °C) and available in capacities from 180–534 L.
These thermostatic cabinets (TC) are available in three sizes with varying features.
Need more information about our dilution and respirometric BOD measurement and biodegradability testing products?
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