BIOFILTERS ODOR CONTROL

AIR QUALITY
Biofilters for Odor and Air Pollution Mitigation in Animal Agriculture
AIR QUALITY EDUCATION IN ANIMAL AGRICULTURE
Kevin A. Janni, Professor, Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems Engineering, University of Minnesota [e-mail]
Richard K. Nicolai, Associate Professor,
Department of Agricultural and
Biological Engineering, South Dakota
State University
Steven Hoff, Professor, Department of Ag and Biosystems Engineering,
Iowa State University
Rose M. Stenglein, Junior Scientist,
Department of Bioproducts and Biosystems Engineering, University of
Minnesota

This publication discusses biofilters use and design and performance factors. Contents
Introduction.............................1
Biofilter Types..........................2
Biofilter Elements ...................3
Design, Performance...............4
Health, Safety..........................7
Costs.......................................7
References..............................8

Mitigation Strategies: Biofilters
November 2011

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iofilters are a proven and effective method for reducing odor and other gaseous emissions from mechanically ventilated animal facilities and manure storage units.
Biofilters work by absorbing noxious gases into a biofilm where microorganisms break down the gases into carbon dioxide, water, and salts and use the energy and nutrients to grow and reproduce. Well-designed and managed biofilters can reduce odors and hydrogen sulfide (H2S) by as much as 95 percent and ammonia (NH3) by 80 percent.
Biofilters have been used by nonagricultural industries for many years and on animal facilities for over 12 years in North America.
Biofilters are actively being researched; additional information about pollution reduction efficiencies, biofilter media, configurations, and maintenance will be available in coming years. Additional potential benefits may include reducing airborne transmission of viruses and reducing

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