This cost objective can be met by using abundant, locally available materials. A biofilter was constructed late in 1995 in a swine farrowing barn in south-central Minnesota. The media in the filter is a mixture of compost and kidney bean straw. We are using an olfactometer to measure odor reduction, and we are also measuring static pressure drop and a number of other parameters. Another biofilter has been retrofitted to the ventilating system of a swine nursery.
Early tests indicate that the biofilter is reducing odor emissions, and monitoring is continuing.
In 1997, we also plan to conduct a laboratory evaluation of several kinds of filter media. Innovative, low-cost biofilter used to treat exhaust air from a Minnesota swine farrowing barn. 1997 Regents of the University of Minnesota. All Rights Reserved. The University of Minnesota is an equal opportunity educator and employer.