Simple method for determination of biodegradable dissolved organic carbon in water.

Determination of biodegradable dissolved organic carbon in waters is of particular importance for the water treatment industry. A simple method for determining biodegradable dissolved organic carbon which is applicable to surface and drinking water is proposed. It consists of sterilizing the water sample, inoculating it with autochthonous bacteria, and measuring the decrease in dissolved organic carbon concentration due to the carbon oxidization by bacteria. The detailed experimental procedure is discussed, and validation of the method is presented. The method has been used for studying river waters and for drinking water treatment plant design.