INNOVATIVE BIOLOGICAL ODOR CONTROL ELIMINATES ODOR COMPLAINTS AT MOUNT DORA, FL EAST SIDE WWTP

The East Side water reclamation plant in Mt. Dora, Florida was experiencing frequent odor complaints from neighbors in 2005. The headworks at the plant was identified as the primary source of odors. Hydrogen sulfide levels in the wet well at the headworks commonly measured 50 ppmv with frequent surges to 150 – 200 ppmv. A consortium of several companies proposed that a biotrickling filter pilot unit designed to treat 500 cfm (850 m3/hr) of air be installed at the plant to determine the feasibility of biological odor control at the East Side plant. The system proposed uses HD Q-PAC® biological support media. This media allows for the system to operate at much lower pressure drop vs. alternative media. Also HD Q-PAC® has a low density, so in addition to low operating expense the initial capital cost of a biotrickling filter based upon this media is much lower vs. alternatives. The biology of biotrickling odor control is discussed in relation to the media choices.The system was started up in December of 2005. Typical H2S destruction data above 95% was achieved. The biotrickling system eliminated odor complaints from the neighborhood around the East Side plant. Also, no odors where noted in the stack emissions of the biotrickling system, even during surges in H2S in the gas being collected from the wet well. The fact that no odor breakouts occurred is discussed in relationship to the efficiency measurement. Recent advances in media support design vs. the all HD Q-PAC® bed used in this project to achieve higher efficiency is also briefly discussed.