In environmental science, sewage treatment, composting process evaluation, and new material biodegradability testing, microbial degradation breathers accurately quantify the biodegradation rate and degree of organic matter by real-time monitoring of oxygen consumption or carbon dioxide production during microbial metabolism. Its data is the core basis for evaluating the biodegradability of pollutants, optimizing treatment processes, and verifying the environmental performance of biodegradable materials. However, microbial degradation breathers require high operational standards, and any negligence in any link may lead to data distortion. Mastering scientific usage methods is the key to accurately understanding microorganisms.

1、 System preparation
Before use, ensure that the instrument is placed on a stable, dark, and constant temperature experimental platform (usually 20 ± 1 ℃), away from vibration and strong electromagnetic fields. Check if the air system is sealed: Connect the intake pipe, reaction bottle, drying pipe, sensor, and exhaust pipe, and use soapy water to detect any air leaks at each interface. Confirm that the air pump, mixer, and temperature probe are working properly.
2、 Sample preparation
The test samples (such as sludge, composting agents, organic waste, or test materials) should be evenly dispersed in the mineralized culture medium. If testing solid materials, they should be ground to the specified particle size and weighed appropriately. The inoculated microbial source (such as activated sludge) needs to be pre treated to remove residual matrix. Simultaneously set up a blank control group (excluding samples) and a positive control group (such as glucose or sodium benzoate) for calibrating the system background and verifying microbial activity.
3、 Sample installation and sealing
Accurately inject the mixed solution into the reaction bottle, ensuring that the liquid level meets the requirements of the instrument to avoid overfilling and affecting gas-liquid equilibrium. Quickly tighten the bottle cap to ensure that the O-ring seal is intact and the threads are tightened in place, forming a closed system. When connecting the air circuit, move gently to prevent vibration from damaging the liquid seal.
4、 Parameter setting and startup
Set the experimental temperature, stirring speed (ensuring uniform mass transfer without damaging microorganisms), and data collection frequency (usually recorded every 10-30 minutes) through software. Activate the air pump to allow air to pass through the reaction system at a constant flow rate, carrying metabolic gases into the CO absorption unit or O sensor. The system will be pre run for 1-2 hours, and formal testing will begin after the baseline stabilizes.
5、 Operation monitoring and data recording
Regularly check the bubble flow rate, stirring status, and liquid seal condition during the experiment. Avoid frequent opening of reaction bottles to prevent air from entering. The software automatically draws the curve of oxygen consumption (or CO? Release) over time, allowing real-time observation of degradation dynamics.
6、 Ending and Cleaning
After the experiment, turn off the air pump first, and then disconnect the air circuit. Take out the reaction solution and dispose of it as biological waste. Clean the reaction bottle, pipeline, and sensor probe with clean water and dilute alcohol, and let them dry for later use.