Using Microtox’s LX Series, Alloway is now able to offer rapid testing for acute toxicity. Traditional acute testing for NPDES compliance reporting takes 48 – 96 hours, but with this new generation of laboratory testing, Alloway can offer same day results to enhance process control, optimize plant performance, and assess toxicity.
How does the Microtox Technology work?
Microtox uses the bioluminescent bacterium Vibriio fischeri for the detection of toxicity in water. A baseline measurement is taken, then the bacteria are exposed to different sample dilutions with the ability to adjust chemical parameters. Measurements are recorded at increasing time markers to identify toxicity.
The bacteria are sensitive to more than 2,700 simple and complex chemicals. Through sample manipulations, Alloway can evaluate the effects of different parameters like pH, filtration, and chemical additions on the overall demonstrated toxicity.
How does this new technology compare to traditional toxicity test methods?
Faster – This innovative technology offers results in a matter of hours, instead of days.
Less Sample Volume – Microtox analysis only requires 100 mL of sample, which means less hassle for sampling and less weight in shipping samples.
More Cost Effective – With fewer hours involved in the analysis, this testing is less costly than traditional toxicity testing and studies.
Safeguard Regulatory Compliance - While this alternative test method is not a formally approved method for NPDES required monitoring, numerous independent studies have shown that test results using the Microtox technology are highly correlated with 40 CFR, Part 136 approved methodology, making this a valuable tool for toxicity studies and optimizing plant performance.
What are the applications for the Microtox LX?
Don’t be surprised by a plant upset or regulatory violation! Using this technology, operators have a warning system that provides sufficient time for action to be taken to avoid regulatory violations. In addition, this toxicity screening allows treatment operators to discover how manipulations of pH, filtration and chemical additions will affect the quality of their effluent.
The applications cover a diverse range of industries and water treatment processes! Wastewater treatment facilities can use this tool as part of their pretreatment program to regulate the toxicity of incoming waste streams, determine surcharge rates, and avoid damage to biological treatment systems. Industries performing batch treatment can screen the toxicity of their ever-changing discharge. Potable water plants can screen new source waters for contamination. The wide range of applications makes this practical tool the perfect addition to Alloway’s essential service offerings.
Want to know more about how this rapid toxicity testing can help your facility? Contact Alloway today at support@alloway.com for more information.