Odour control of livestock wastes: State-of-the-art in North America

Abstract

Odours from livestock wastes are a result of anaerobic decomposition. More than 75 specific odorous compounds have been identified. Odour producing compounds have been measured by gas chromatography, wet chemistry tests and organoleptic tests. Vapour dilution and liquid dilutions are the most popular methods for measuring odour strength and odour intensity. The scentometer and butanol olfactometer have been used to measure odours in the field. Odours can be controlled by changing the nature of the compound, inhibiting anaerobic decomposition of wastes or confining the odour. Site selection and management are also important considerations in odour control. Odours may originate from livestock buildings and feedlots, waste treatment or storage units or from land spreading. Odour control by chemicals is expensive because of the large amount of chemical required at frequent intervals for effective control.