How Effective Is Your Wastewater Odor Control?
Written by AOS Treatment Solutions on December 27, 2017
Clean fresh water is a must in any municipality, and keeping the water free from pathogens and other hazards is a constant process. One of the key areas to monitor is the wastewater odor control, as it usually signifies a problem somewhere in the system. This article highlights ways in which wastewater odor can be managed safely and effectively in a municipal system.
Identifying the Source
Noxious wastewater odors come from a range of sources and can happen anywhere, regardless of the diligence used in maintaining a clean water supply. Contamination can occur from industrial plants, commercial farm waste and municipal systems. It can also come from stormwater. Identifying the source of an unpleasant odor in the water supply can be a challenge. Most bacteria come from an anaerobic source, where the oxygen supply is limited. The smell is similar to rotten eggs. A similar effect comes from domestic sewerage supplies when there is a blockage in the system. If there is a wastewater odor control problem, contacting a specialist is the best way of dealing with the issue safely and effectively.
Biological Issues
When pathogens get into the water supply, they can not only cause health problems but the taste and odor of the water are also affected. Pathogens generally consist of viruses, bacteria and fungi. Where chloramines have been used, biofilms are more likely to form on the surface of the water and can produce a smell. One of the ways of removing pathogens and biofilms is through disinfection. This needs to be done by a specialist and generally involves liquid sodium hypochlorite (bleach) or chlorine. Chlorinating the water is vital to ensure toxins are not released into the environment, causing further contamination. Bacteria in wastewater use the oxygen supply that other creatures and plants depend upon, causing a further toxic effect.
Air Stripping
Another effective way to remove foul odors from wastewater is to use an air stripper. If wastewater is exposed to a countercurrent flow of air using a tower, the volatile organic compounds are stripped out of the water. This method also requires further treatment such as pH adjustment before the job is complete.
Hydrogen Sulfide Scavengers
Noxious gases build up when there are toxins in wastewater. This is hazardous and can be fatal. One of the ways of neutralizing toxins in wastewater is to use a hydrogen sulfide scavenger. This method involves either a mechanical solution to remove the toxic waste and odor or a neutralizer solution. Using a hydrogen sulfide scavenger should be done by experts, who are able to identify the problem and select the correct treatment in a safe manner.
Groundwater Treatments
Some groundwater gets contaminated and exudes a noxious odor, which is unpleasant in municipal areas. Contacting an expert to eliminate the problem will get the issue dealt with quickly and in a safe way so that further contamination is minimized.
When an offensive odor comes from wastewater, it signals a problem somewhere in the system from either bacterial or chemical contamination. Getting to the root of the issue with the correct treatments is vital to ensure safe water supplies and to reduce the risk of contaminants getting elsewhere. That’s where an expert can help you with a rapid solution that has safely at its heart.