This proposal describes the methods, materials, construction, operation, and scientific analysis to be utilized in field trials of the Bioblanket(TM) odor control system. This system establishes and maintains aerobic conditions in the top portion of surface water in anaerobic wastewater impoundments which fosters healthy biological growth to reduce odors and deleterious anaerobic waste-by-products. Establishment of an aerobic biological layer substantially abates the release of odorous compounds, primarily inorganic and organic sulfur compounds, through oxidative biological degradation and uptake as these compounds migrate through the aerobic surface layer. The system provides a semipermeable barrier between the aerobic upper layer and the anaerobic lower layers. It supplies a membrane substrate for aerobic biological growth near the surface with a low-maintenance flotation system. An aqueous delivery system is provided which distributes dissolved oxygen over the surface by recycling oxygenated water. Data will be collected using a water quality sensor for dissolved oxygen, pH, temperature, and conductivity. The sensor is also utilized to maintain proper ranges of dissolved oxygen in an energy efficient manner. Analytical chemistry data for nutrient balance and scentometer trial data will also be collected.
Anticipated Results/Potential Commercial Applications of Research:: The results of the field trial should provide data on the effectiveness of the system in controlling odorous releases from animal waste lagoons, the essential elements of the process necessary to achieve this end, the system's effect on nutrient concentrations on the economies of operation. The commercial application of the technology are wide-ranging, from simple implantation of the Bioblanket(TM) in wetlands to closed industrial basin systems for odorous impoundments. Agricultural applications include swine, cattle, and chicken wastewater impoundments, and animal by-product processes such as meat rendering and milk separation waste disposal.
