Specifically, researchers are continuing their chemical characterization studies, and also evaluating the efficiency and appropriateness of water-based treatment technologies. Specifically, he is working with the developers of two different novel chemistries to improve wet scrubber efficiency, and Pierson is developing a predictive monitoring system to better manage rendering plant emissions. Both the U.S. Poultry and Egg Association's Protein and Fats Council and FoodPAC are funding this joint project. Researchers elsewhere are working on improvements to biofilters, Walsh adds. Biofilters take airborne emissions from the plant and push them through a box filled with packing material, such as wood shavings or ceramic balls.
Bacteria grow on the packing material, and then they eat and remove most of the odorous chemicals.
In Georgia, rendering plants in Cumming and Cuthbert have installed customized biofilters. A lot of research and development is going on, not only new chemical treatments, but new ways of controlling processing operations to eliminate odors. For more information, you may contact Jim Walsh, Economic Development Institute, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332-0837.