UV absorption as control-parameter for biological treatment plants

Abstract

Dissolved organic compounds with aromatic structures absorb UV-light. Thus, the measurement of UV absorption is an indication for the pollution of water with such substances. In surface and drinking water technology this method has a long tradition. In this paper it will be shown that UV-absorption has a very good correlation with COD in wastewater treatment plants and can be used as a continuous and cheap measuring device without the use of chemicals and avoiding errors that can be made in the withdrawal and preparation of composite samples.