Application of calorimetric measurements for biokinetic characterisation of nitrifying population in activated sludge.

A preliminary investigation is described on the application of calorimetry as a sensitive technique to evaluate nitrifying activity in activated sludge. Calorimetric profiles (thermograms) related to heat dissipation due to biological nitrification reactions (ammonia or nitrite consumption) have been interpreted. Correlations between calorimetric data and the main process variables, i.

Theory of pH-stat titration.

Innovative techniques are being studied to assess the activity of bioreactors and to improve the performance and operational stability of biological processes. Among these techniques, the pH-stat titration is applicable to any bioreaction involving pH variations. Up to now, the main application of the pH-stat titration has been for nitrification monitoring.

Acetoclastic methanogenic activity measurement by a titration bioassay.

A titration bioassay, designed to accurately determine the activity of acetoclastic methanogens, is described that also allows evaluation of inhibition due to potential toxicants on the active biomass. The instrument is made of a pH-stat connected to an anaerobic batch reactor. Acetate is blended and mixed with anaerobic sludge in the reactor where a 1:1 N2 and CO2 mixture is sparged at the beginning of each test.