Why Biological Odor Treatment Is Required
In many facilities, strong odors and volatile organic pollutants are generated by biological or chemical processes.
These odors typically result from hydrogen sulfide (H₂S), ammonia, amines, and mercaptans.
Improper handling of these emissions can cause severe odor nuisances and exceedance of air quality standards.
Biofilters and biotrickling filters offer an environmentally friendly alternative to chemical or activated carbon systems, thanks to their continuous operation, low maintenance costs, and sustainable performance.
Operating Principle and Advantages
In a classic biofilter, contaminated air passes through an organic medium made of wood chips or volcanic stones (tuff), which provides humidity, large surface area, and ideal conditions for bacterial growth.
These microorganisms biologically degrade odorous molecules, converting them into clean, non-odorous compounds.
Main advantages of biofilters include:
- High efficiency in odor and VOC removal
- Chemical-free and environmentally sustainable operation
- Low operating and maintenance costs
- Long service life and stable performance
However, biofilters require relatively large installation areas due to longer contact times and lower air velocities.
A well-designed biological filtration system provides an efficient, sustainable, and chemical-free solution for odor and VOC reduction – ensuring cleaner air and a healthier environment.
Biofilter: Models and Common Applications
Biofilters represent a proven engineering solution for odor treatment and control of volatile organic pollutants through a natural and efficient biological process.
Common system configurations include:
- Containerized biofilters – Compact 6- or 12-meter units for flow rates up to ~5,000 m³/h. These systems are cost-effective, easily installed, and typically do not require building permits.
- Open concrete basins or reinforced tanks – Custom-built large-scale systems with support grids and biological media layers.
- Open or closed biofilters – Most units are open at the top, though covered versions are available for directed exhaust via chimney.
These systems are suitable for a wide range of flow capacities – from a few thousand to hundreds of thousands of cubic meters per hour – and are ideal for pumping stations, wastewater treatment plants, and organic waste sites.
Biotrickling Filter (BTF): The Next Generation of Biological Odor Treatment
The Biotrickling Filter (BTF) represents the next stage in biological air treatment evolution.
It maintains the biological principle of the biofilter while adding advanced control and automation — through continuous water recirculation, nutrient dosing, and pH monitoring.
Instead of an organic medium, the BTF uses inert plastic or ceramic media, on which a thin biofilm develops.
This biofilm actively decomposes contaminants, providing exceptionally high treatment efficiency, especially for hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) and other challenging compounds.
Key advantages of BTF systems:
- Superior efficiency in hydrogen sulfide removal
- Precise control of biological process parameters
- Simplified long-term maintenance due to continuous media washing
- Reduced chemical use compared to chemical scrubbers
- Option to integrate with a biofilter for combined “polishing” treatment
BTF systems are particularly suited for wastewater treatment plants, pumping stations, waste management sites, and chemical industries, serving as the new generation of advanced biological filtration technology.
A.B.P. Chemical Engineering and Ventilation Ltd. – Comprehensive Engineering Solutions
A.B.P. Chemical Engineering and Ventilation Ltd. specializes in the design, manufacturing, and installation of air and odor treatment systems, including Biofilters and Biotrickling Filters (BTF).
Combining deep engineering expertise, long-term industrial experience, and a thorough understanding of client needs, the company delivers tailor-made solutions ranging from compact modular systems to large-scale industrial installations.
In addition to design and construction, A.B.P. Chemical Engineering and Ventilation Ltd. provides full maintenance, control, and upgrade services for existing systems, ensuring compliance with the most stringent air quality regulations in Israel.
Through a combination of technological innovation and proven engineering know-how, A.B.P. Chemical Engineering and Ventilation Ltd. leads the biological air treatment field in Israel, providing complete, reliable, and sustainable solutions for industrial facilities, municipalities, and wastewater treatment operators.
