Biofilter design information

Abstract

Odor emissions from livestock and poultry facilities are a source of contention in many areas of Minnesota and across the United States. Under certain conditions odor emissions have been known to affect neighbors and communities at distances of a mile or more from the odor source. One odor control technology that has been shown to be both economical and effective is a biofilter. Biofiltration can reduce odor and hydrogen sulfide emissions from livestock and poultry facilities by as much as 95% and ammonia by 65%. This method of odor control has been used in industry for many years and was recently adapted for use in livestock and poultry systems. Biofilters are most easily adapted to mechanically ventilated buildings or on the pit fans of naturally ventilated buildings. Biofilters can also treat air vented from covered manure storage covers.