Odorous emissions: a comprehensive guide to industrial odors and their treatment.

Industrial odors are a major cause of nuisance to communities near factories, which is why specific regulations on odorigenic emissions have been introduced. Although often overlooked compared to other pollutants, industrial odors have a significant impact on quality of life and the environment.

The Ministry of Environment and Energy Security (MASE) has introduced Directorial Decree No. 309 of June 28, 2023, which provides clear guidelines for the management and control of odorous emissions. Today we will delve into the key points of this legislation and the technologies available for industrial odor treatment.

Why is it important to control industrial odors?

Industrial odors are composed of microscopic particles of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), which are easily dispersed into the atmosphere. These not only cause olfactory discomfort, but can also have significant environmental and health impacts.

Increasing attention to the impact of odorigenic emissions has led to the intensification of controls by authorities and the introduction of new regulations to ensure that companies take appropriate prevention and mitigation measures.

What are the regulations on odorous emissions?

Directorial Decree 309/2023 of the MASE is a key reference for companies applying for environmental permits and for public bodies in charge of their assessment. The guidelines apply to establishments subject to:

• Single Environmental Authorization (AUA): requirement to conduct a direct assessment of odorigenic emissions.
• Integrated Environmental Authorization (AIA): use of the guidelines as a criterion for ensuring environmental protection.

Companies are required to provide a detailed description of odorigenic emissions and measures taken to control them. This includes the use of advanced technical analysis, such as dispersion studies and chemical characterization of emissions, to ensure compliance and sustainability.

How are odors evaluated?

The decree introduces tools and methodologies for assessing odorigenic emissions:

• Dispersion models: mathematical simulations that analyze how odors are distributed in the air, taking into account factors such as wind, temperature, and soil conformation.
• Chemical characterization: detailed analyses by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS), which identify the specific compounds responsible for odors.
• Olfactometric sampling: direct measurement of olfactory perception using instruments and evaluation panels.

These studies make it possible to identify trouble spots and implement targeted solutions for odor reduction.

Industrial odor abatement technologies.

To comply with regulatory limits, companies must adopt appropriate technologies to treat odorigenic emissions. Some of the most common solutions include:

• Activated carbon systems: effective in absorbing volatile compounds responsible for odors.
• Scrubbers: remove odors through chemical reactions with specific reagents.
• Thermal oxidizers: convert VOCs into odorless compounds through a controlled combustion process.

The choice of the most suitable technology depends on the chemical composition of the emissions and the type of production activity.

At HFiltration, we offer a wide range of industrial odor abatement technology solutions designed to ensure regulatory compliance and improve the sustainability of manufacturing environments.

Industrial odor management represents a complex, yet crucial challenge to ensure a balance between industrial development and environmental protection. Directorial Decree 309/2023 provides a clear regulatory framework, supporting companies and public administrations in the assessment and mitigation of odorigenic emissions.

Rely on HFiltration to meet this challenge, thanks to our experience we help companies identify and implement the most effective systems for their needs.

Contact us for a personalized consultation!