Design, Fabrication and Application of Cost-effective Respirometers in Environmental Biomonitoring

Abstract

This dissertation presents a comprehensive study on the design, fabrication, and application of cost-effective respirometers for environmental biomonitoring, emphasizing their utility in assessing the biodegradability of wastewater. The research traces the historical context of respirometric techniques, originating in the 1920s, and highlights the evolution of measurement tools, culminating in the establishment of standardized guidelines that have facilitated the method's application in wastewater treatment. Despite the advantages of respirometric techniques over traditional BOD measurements, their adoption in activated sludge plants, particularly in developing countries like Bangladesh, has been limited due to a lack of familiarity and authoritative guidelines. This study aims to bridge that gap by developing innovative, low-cost respirometers tailored for local conditions. The dissertation is structured into three main sections: (1) planning and design schemes for the fabrication of respirometers, (2) detailed fabrication procedures and component descriptions, and (3) a demonstration of the diverse applications of the fabricated devices in biomonitoring. The findings contribute valuable insights for designers, researchers, and industry practitioners, facilitating smoother operations of effluent treatment plants and advancing the application of respirometric methods in environmental engineering.