Analytical methods for use in biodegradation tests on detergent components

The behaviour of various surfactants and other detergent components in biod egradation tests was studied in art extensive research project. The biodegr adation tests were carried out in laboratory- and pilot-scale activated slu dge plants The operating parameters of these plants correspond to modern fu ll-scale waste water treatment plants and include nitrification and pre-den itrification. Specific analytical methods, based mainly on HPLC, were devel oped to determine the biodegradation of the investigated surfactants and ot her detergent components. The equipment and analytical methods used are des cribed here and typical chromatograms are shown.