Odour control

Unpleasant odours are one of the most frequent complaints of the public about the operation of wastewater treatment plants. They can occur at any stage of the treatment process, from primary collection wells, pumping stations, settling basins to sludge treatment plants and lagoons.

These odours are mainly generated by anaerobic processes, where micro-organisms break down organic matter. This releases chemical compounds such as hydrogen sulphide (H₂S), mercaptans, indoles, skatole and ammonia. The most dangerous of these is hydrogen sulphide, which not only has a pungent 'rotten egg' smell, but can also damage concrete structures, corrode metals, inhibit biological processes in wastewater treatment plants, and can be hazardous to human health, even at low concentrations (Okabe et al., 2007; Zhang et al., 2008).

Odour control in wastewater treatment is not only a matter of comfort, but also of environmental protection and public health. It helps to reduce emissions, protect the environment and ensure safe and hygienic working conditions.

"BioCleaner tackles the odour problem at its root - by eliminating the cause of odour, not just masking the effects.

It is a biological wastewater treatment system based on patented US technology. It works by using microbes embedded in ceramic pellets that are activated when they come into contact with wastewater and oxygen. They break down organic pollutants and odorous compounds and convert them into harmless products such as carbon dioxide, water, sulphates and nitrates.

The BioCleaner uses aerobic and facultative anaerobic micro-organisms, so the system works effectively in both oxygen and oxygen-limited conditions, which is where odours tend to be most intense in anaerobic areas.

Unlike chemical neutralisers, BioCleaner does not mask the odour, but biologically breaks down the source. It is a safe, natural and long-term solution. Microbial safety has been confirmed by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Philippine Department of Science and Technology.

Odour removal with BioCleaner

To enhance the effectiveness of the BioCleaner OS microorganisms and anaerobic bacterial activity, 5-10% of the wastewater flow is returned to the beginning of the main treatment plant.

Why Biocleaner ?

Eliminates the cause, not masks the effects. Unlike chemical odour neutralisers or masking agents, BioCleaner biodegrades odour-causing compounds into harmless products.

Safe for humans and the environment. The micro-organisms used are naturally harmless to humans, animals and the environment. Their safety has been confirmed by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other international bodies.

Effective even in difficult conditions. Using aerobic and facultative anaerobic micro-organisms, the system works both in the presence and absence of oxygen.

A long-term solution with minimum maintenance. The micro-organisms "live" in the ceramic granules, are resilient and are constantly active. The system does not need to be constantly refilled - a long-lasting, cost-effective and reliable odour control.

Need more information?