What does biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) measure?

Biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) is a critical parameter used to assess the quality of water, specifically relating to the presence of organic matter. It measures the amount of oxygen that microorganisms will consume while decomposing organic material in a water sample over a specified period, typically five days at a temperature of 20°C. This measurement directly indicates the organic pollution level in the water.

When organic matter is present, bacteria and other microorganisms utilize oxygen to break it down, hence the term "demand" in BOD. High BOD values suggest that there is a significant amount of organic material that needs to be decomposed, which can lead to depletion of dissolved oxygen in the water body. This depletion can harm aquatic life, making BOD a crucial indicator of the potential impact of wastewater on the environment.

Understanding BOD is essential for wastewater treatment facilities, as managing and reducing BOD levels is a primary goal in the treatment process to protect aquatic ecosystems and ensure compliance with environmental regulations.