Bad Odor in Paper Mill

The paper industry is recognized for its odor nuisance generated by the manufacturing process of pulp paper and other derived products.
Chromatotec has developed continuous analysis solutions for monitoring odorous molecules such as sulfur compounds. These control systems can be deployed at several locations on the industrial site, such as smoke extraction chimneys, washing and bleaching processes, lime production, etc.

Several paper mills in France and around the world are now equipped with trsMEDOR® allowing the identification and quantification of H2S, SO2, DMS, mercaptans from a few ppb and up to several %.

Significance of Monitoring Total Reduced Sulfur (TRS) Compounds:

In the kraft pulping process, various sulfur compounds are produced, including hydrogen sulfide (H₂S), methyl mercaptan, dimethyl sulfide, and dimethyl disulfide. Collectively known as Total Reduced Sulfur (TRS) compounds, these substances are primarily responsible for the characteristic odors associated with pulp mills. Continuous monitoring of TRS emissions is essential to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and to minimize odor nuisances.

Health and Environmental Impacts:

Exposure to TRS compounds can lead to various health issues, including eye and nasal irritation, cough, and headaches. An epidemiological study indicated that individuals exposed to TRS emissions from pulp mills reported a higher occurrence of these symptoms compared to those not exposed. Therefore, effective monitoring and control of TRS emissions are crucial to protect both environmental and public health.

Challenges in TRS Monitoring:

Monitoring TRS emissions presents specific challenges due to the malodorous and flammable nature of these gases. The environment in which sampling occurs is often saturated with water vapor, and the corrosive properties of TRS gases can affect sensor longevity. Therefore, selecting appropriate monitoring equipment that can withstand these conditions is vital for accurate and reliable measurements.

Advanced Monitoring Techniques:

Innovative solutions, such as electronic-nose systems, have been developed to monitor odorous gases in the pulp and paper industry. These systems provide numerical values for odor intensity with precision and accuracy, facilitating effective odor management. Implementing such advanced monitoring techniques can help in early detection and mitigation of odor issues, ensuring compliance with environmental standards and improving community relations.