Development of a BOD sensor using the principles of microbial fuel cells

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Biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) concentration is a universal, significant indicator for wastewater effluent standards. Municipalities regulates BOD5 (incubation for 5 days) concentration less than 25 mg/L for wastewater effluent, but the frequency of BOD5 measurement is extremely insufficient to secure the quality of wastewater effluent continuously being discharged to water bodies. For instance, three measurements per week are the most frequent in regulations, which cannot still guarantee wastewater effluent quality. To better protect human health and water resources, we need to measure BOD5 concentration more frequently, but high frequency of measurement needs substantial costs. The goal of this project is to conduct a proof-of-concept experiment on innovative BOD5 sensors using the principles of microbial fuel cells (MFCs). The MFC-based BOD sensor can inform BOD5 concentration once every two hours in negligible operating costs. This project can help an industry partner to initiate development of a new, economical BOD sensor on one hand. On the other hand, successful development of this technology can improve human health and the clean water environment in Canada.