Identification and characterisation of odour sources

With an odour survey it is important to have a precise picture of the locations where relevant odour emissions can occur. Depending on the size of the company and the number of potential sources of odour, the first step is often to carry out an odour audit. This means that we, together with the company, examine all the production processes and operations thoroughly. In doing so, we always take into account the operational functioning and business culture. An audit allows us to make an initial assessment of where relevant odour sources can be found.

We look at the whole picture from various perspectives. We pay specific attention to the actual air flows and show critical vigilance in respect of the related material and energy consumption and required operational deployment. In doing so, we can always offer the most optimal, cost-effective, and sustainable measures in our further advice.

As well as an odour audit, we can also carry out a ventilation examination. This enables us to chart both guided and diffuse air flows.

Once the potential odour sources are located, they are further characterised. To this end, we take on-site air samples. These will subsequently be analysed in specialised labs.

The odour strength or concentration is determined via a sensory technique called olfactometry (ref. EN13725). The degree of odour release is determined in combination with the measurement of the released air flow rates.

The composition of the odorous air is established by carrying out chemical analyses. These include, amongst other things, a high sensitivity GC-MS analysis which allows us to determine the odour molecules present to a very low concentration level. In this way, the components can be identified which make an important contribution to the dispersed odour.

ODORO works together with specialised and accredited laboratories to carry out specific analyses.