- Phenol
- Cyanide
- Tall oil or pine oil
- d-limonene
- Solvents and surfactants in high concentrations
- Sulfides
- High concentrations of the problem compounds inhibit biological activity of sensitive organisms - often this is slow growing microbes such as AOB & NOB (nitrifiers). In effect, a microbial kill.
- Respiration rates slow, turbidity increases, deflocculation can occur, and indicator protozoa decline.
- Organisms that are both more resistant to the compounds, utilize the compounds for energy, or fast growing (k-rate strategists) begin log phase growth. DOUR increases.
- As the toxic compounds are diluted and biologically degraded, the microbial population begins to drift back to pre-shock populations.
- Being vigilant to spills or shock loadings through routine monitoring
- Determine sources and attempt to keep toxic compounds out of the system in high concentrations
- If needed, use bioaugmentation to boost the k-rate strategists to move quickly from lag phase to log phase growth (shorten time for population adjustment)
- If high strength waste is stored in an EQ tank, begin bleeding in slowly to avoid toxic levels (remember a poison is a factor of its concentration).
- Always monitor the recovery and when you are "bleeding in" a high strength waste stream