Complaints for odour causing industry continue to increase in numeracy and severity. One assessment approach using Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry/Olfactometry (GC–MS/O), was used primarily to identify priorityodourants within a standardised panel.
The researchers investigated the variation of response between participants of average and high olfactory sensitivity, and discovered that current GC–MS/O methodologies did not represent the entirety of community odour impact. Based on these results they constructed a Biosolids Processing Odour Wheel followed by a Community Odour Wheel for use by untrained community members and site operators.
By using the information gathered from this research, as well as odour testing workshops for a wastewater treatment plant's staff and community surrounding the facility, the researchers established a communicative system, which was subsequently incorporated into an online dynamic odour observation platform. This platform provides the WWTP with meaningful information from the community, as well as a common language for which to discuss environmental malodour with all stakeholders.
Read the paper HERE.