ABSTRACT
This chapter serves as an introduction to biofiltration, explaining the forces that have led to its development and further advancement in the waste gas treatment market. It describes air pollution control regulatory issues, the alternative control technologies available, a brief history of biofiltration, the current marketplace for biofiltration, common biofilter terminology, and additional resources. As the effects of air pollution on all life forms have become better understood, environmental legislation controlling the emission of volatile organic compounds, toxics, and odors has proliferated. Enforcement of such regulations by federal, state, and regional government agencies has forced industry to comply. There are two forms of applicable air emissions control. Source control involves the reduction of emissions through raw product substitution, reduction, or recycling. Secondary control involves treatment of the waste gas after it has been produced. Combinations of various technologies may often be required to meet regulatory standards.
