Odors from landfills are a major concern for landfill operators and management of odor will become an increasing concern as landfills that were once constructed in remote areas are being encroached upon by growth. Landfills generate a large volume of landfill gas. Large landfills are required to have gas control systems that pull the landfill gas from the landfill and create energy or combust it with a flare. Landfill gas control is the most effective method to control odors. Many smaller, older landfills are exempt from gas control regulations. This study investigates methods of odor control for these landfill applications
The focus of this study investigates the ability of M1 steel, a by-product from shredded tires, iron rich soil, wood mulch, and compost to attenuate odor of landfill gas. The materials were investigated in filters connected to a landfill gas vent; the landfill gas flow rate was controlled to quantify the reduction. Landfill gas samples were collected before and after the filter and analyzed using gas chromatography to compare the concentration reduction of H2S across the filter.
The results of this study provide an analysis of the performance of the media and presents design scenarios to reduce odors at smaller or older landfills. The design scenarios provide performance life of passive landfill vent filters using the M1 Steel and landfill cover applications using red soil, wood mulch, and compost.
