Odour from biofuels and anaerobic digestion plants
Anaerobic digestion and biofuels plants may be associated with unpleasant odours.
The risk of odour generation depends on a number of factors:
- type of feedstock handled
- handling and storage of feedstock before processing
- gas handling and management
- digestate storage and disposal
- wastewater treatment.
The required level of odour control (for example, containment, collection or treatment) is generally influenced by local conditions such as the site location and proximity to local residents. However, the biogas produced by all anaerobic digestion and biofuels installations has a high odour impact potential. This means that effective gas collection and storage systems are always essential, including well-defined procedures to minimise gas release in the event of plant failure or breakdown.
How can we help?
Our odour sampling and odour impact assessment capabilities, and our extensive database of feedstock emissions, can be invaluable in the planning of any anaerobic digestion or biofuels development. We can help you to establish the odour emission potential of the proposed feedstocks (and resultant digestate) early on in the development process, to ensure that suitable odour control measures are included in your design and budget.
Need to know more?
Need some help quantifying, managing or minimising odour generation and the impact risk at your anaerobic digestion or biofuels plant? Contact your local Odournet office for more information – we’ll be happy to talk through your requirements.
