Description One manufacturer has adapted a BOD analyzer to measure oxygen consumption as a surrogate for general toxicity. The critical element in the analyzer is the bioreactor, which is used to continuously measure the respiration of the biomass under stable conditions. As the toxicity of the sample increases, the oxygen consumption in the sample decreases. An alarm can be programmed to sound if oxygen reaches a minimum concentration (i.e., if the sample is strongly toxic). The operator must then interpret the results into a measure of toxicity. Attributes and Features At the current time, it is difficult to directly define the sensitivity and/or the detection limit of toxicity measurement devices because limited data is available regarding specific correlations of decreased oxygen consumption and increased toxicity of the sample. Table 1: Attributes and Features of the Adapted BOD Analyzer | Product | Sensitivity/ Detection Limit | Reliability/ Ruggedness | Response Time | Ease of Installation/ Use | | ISCO / STIPTOX Adapt W Toximeter | Accurate
(may need minor adaptation for general toxicity) | Successfully used in Europe since 1984 | 3-15 mins.
(Quick response to large number of toxins) | Easy to install and use |
Cost The cost of the toxicity measurement device will be similar to the costs of a real time BOD analyzer. The ISCO real-time BOD Analyzer generally ranges between $20,000 and $30,000, depending on the user's specific requirements, as well as on the inclusion of any optional features. Vendors
Disclaimer: The information provided in this guide does not constitute an endorsement by the Environmental Protection Agency of any non-Federal entity, its products or its services. In addition, EPA does not endorse the vendors and products listed on this site. EPA is publishing lists of vendors on this site in an effort to further public awareness of vendors identified as possible contacts for further information and possible purchase of the different types of security equipment. The Agency has selected the listed vendors on that basis. The list of vendors is not a complete list, and EPA does not endorse the products or services of these vendors. ISCO, Inc.
4700 Superior St.
PO Box 82531
Lincoln, Nebraska 68504
(800) 228-4373
www.ISCO.com
|
| 
