Control of odors is indoubtedly the most difficult
problem in present composting practice and the treatment of all kinds of wastes. A number
of facility closures have been directly caused by the lack of attention to odor
management. In some cases, expensive redesigns have been necessary to solve odor problems
and to make the facility a better neighbor to the surrounding community. |
 Biofilter, Composting plant
Gütersloh, Germany |
 Example: Air distribution system for
biofilters using a wooden split floor |
A number of techniques are available to reduce the odor
concentration in exhaust gases collected during composting including absorption,
condensation, adsorption, oxidation by thermal, chemical or biological means, and use of
masking and neutralizing chemicals. |
Biofiltration is an classic popular air pollution
control technology that uses a biologically active, solid media bed to absorb/adsorb
compounds from the air stream and retain them for their subsequent biological oxidation.
Biofilters are used primarily for the treatment of odors and VOC compounds. Soil covers or
filters have been used since antiquity to reduce odors. |
 Biofilter, Composting plant Hille,
Germany |