ABSTRACT

The procedure used within the Severn-Trent Water Authority for the analysis of odorous emissions is discussed. This method is based on the sampling of malodorous air on Carbotrap D-1 a graphitised carbon black adsorbent followed by solvent extraction of the enriched organic compounds. Interfering non-odorous hydrocarbons also present in the atmosphere are removed by adsorption column chromatography with silica gel. Identification of the enriched odour-intensive compounds relies on high resolution gas chromatography – mass spectroscopy in the electron impact mode. The use of gas chromatography in conjunction with odour port detection is discussed as a valuable aid to this identification and interpretation of the findings. Results obtained with the procedure are presented and areas requiring further attention are noted.