Non-thermal plasmas for the abatement of odorant vocs released by waste composting plants

Mechanical-biological treatments (MBTs) of waste produce undeniable benefits to the environment, but, at a local scale, are also important contributors of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and, in general, odorants. Local critical situations may exist in the vicinity of MBT plants: indeed, residential areas located nearby can be subject to ambient air concentrations of odorants inducing negative consequences on the well-being of residents and on the local economy. Recent experiences showed that traditional biofilters may not be enough to avoid odour nuisance and air pollution. Improvements could be achieved when adopting non-thermal plasmas (NTPs) in the treatment lines of existing MBT plants. In this paper, possible configurations of a treatment line including an NTP reactor are discussed to highlight benefits and constraints.