4 typical questions about odours
Odour nuisance is a complex issue. Over the last 30 years, DESOTEC engineers have worked with more than 1,000 companies on various odour issues. Drawing from these projects, we have summarized the four most common questions here.
What causes odours?
Odours can be caused by organic and inorganic compounds. Complaints often arise from compounds with a low odour threshold, such as H2S or styrene. Companies in waste management or manufacturers of fragrances, food products, and composite materials frequently face these issues.
![](https://www.desotec.com/uploads/Industry/odour-sources.jpg)
What is the odour threshold and why is it important?
The odour threshold is the lowest concentration of a substance at which it can be detected by the human nose. This threshold varies for each compound. Additionally, odours are not controlled and regulated for every company. This means that these companies may comply with their emission limits but still cause odour problems. Understanding odour thresholds can help identify and treat potentially unpleasant air flows to prevent conflicts with neighbouring communities.
![](https://www.desotec.com/uploads/Industry/Odour-threshold.jpg)
How can activated carbon help me with odour nuisances?
The solution to a specific case of odour nuisance largely depends on the odour-causing substances. Impregnated activated carbon is needed to treat inorganic compounds such as H2S or NH3. Odour problems caused by organic solvents can be addressed using standard types of activated carbon. The compounds are adsorbed on the activated carbon, thereby removing the odours.
What can I do if I don't know the cause of the odour?
If the composition of the exhaust air is unknown, measurements can be arranged through partners. Alternatively, a feasibility study can be conducted directly through a pilot plant. During the test, different types of activated carbon can be used separately or in different layers to find the best solution.
Learn more about odour removal in our e-book!
Read the e-bookLearn more about odour removal in our e-book!
Read the e-bookRelated content
-
Odour removal from slaughterhouses
One way to ensure business continuity is to keep odorous emissions as low as possible, maintaining harmonious relations with the local community and the authorities. DESOTEC’s mobile and sustainable filtration solutions treat a huge variety of odorous molecules, so your site workers, visitors, and neighbours can breathe safely at all times. -
Solving odour nuisance at a soap and detergent factory
French fragrance is renowned throughout the world – but its manufacture may cause issues closer to home. DESOTEC has the answers, with mobile and sustainable activated carbon filtration solutions to remove odorous VOCs from air emissions, restoring good relations with the local community. -
Turnkey odour removal system at a tank storage facility
DESOTEC’s mobile activated carbon filters work on a simple plug-and-play basis. However, sometimes they need to be incorporated into a larger extraction system. DESOTEC works with trusted sub-contractors across Europe to design and install efficient and cost-effective air filtration systems for our clients. -
Tackling odour nuisance in air emissions from wastewater treatment plants
Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are vital components of our infrastructure – yet they often create odour nuisance for those living nearby. In this article we will discuss common problems and effective solutions to remove odorous components from emissions.
-
Odour control
Industries are at the heart of communities. By keeping the air smelling fresh, your company fosters good relations with the neighbourhood. -
Colour or odour removal
Removing colour or odour from process liquids boosts product standards to meet desired quality grades and raise company profits. -
Industries we help
We partner with companies in a variety of sectors, adapting our modular filtration solutions to your unique needs.