A RAPID AND SIMPLE CHEMILUMINESCENT ASSAY FOR WATER-QUALITY MONITORING

An enhanced chemiluminescent reaction used in the field of diagnostic immunoassays has been adapted and applied to on-site and laboratory monitoring of water quality. The technique involves the oxidation of luminol, catalysed by horseradish peroxidase. The reaction emits light at a relatively constant rate. A wide range of compounds including radical scavengers and enzyme inhibitors such as cyanide, phenols, heavy metals and certain pesticides cause a reduction in chemiluminescence. The reduction and the shape of the recovery curve provide information on the concentration and type of pollutant present. Results reflect biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) (range 0-300 mg/l) and chemical oxygen demand (COD) (range 0-600 mg/l) with correlation coefficients of 0.91 and 0.96 respectively.