Non-Biocidal VFA and H2S Control Technology for Pulp/Paper & Recycling Mills, Effluent Wastewater, Industrial Sludge and Storage Lagoons, 1999 Environmental Conference Proceedings

Satish Salgar

Jim Constantacos

Constant Laboratories Inc.

With the implementation of closed cycle water systems and the use of recycled fiber, the paper industry faces intense microbiological problems. Bacterial metabolism of organic carbon under anaerobic conditions in pulp/paper mills, effluent wastewater, industrial sludge and storage lagoons can result in the production of malodorous. volatile fatty acids (VFA), and hydrogen sulfide (H2 S). These malodorous compounds are immediately detected by the public’s olfactory senses even at concentration levels of trace parts per billion. They can also decrease product quality and provoke intense public concern. In addition, H2 S can corrode the internal surfaces of storage tanks and pipe lines. The accumulation of H2 in paper mill atmosphere can even lead to hazardous explosive conditions, claiming human lives’-“. Several possible remedies are reported’-“’ to overcome the odor problems; however, most of the methods are expensive or non-practical. This paper deals with a new technology, which is environmentally safe, non-toxic, non-biocidal and inexpensive, which, when added to effluent wastewater. industrial sludge or storage lagoons effectively inhibits and controls the generation of offensive odors even under anaerobic conditions.