Humic Composition for Odor Control in Stagnant Water Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Stagnant water systems in food and agricultural industries, such as sugar beet factories, often become septic and produce malodorous compounds like hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, and mercaptans due to high organic and bacterial loads, leading to strong odors that can be a nuisance and health concern.
Innovation Solution
The introduction of a humic composition, derived from natural sources and certified for food industry use, which adsorbs or neutralizes malodorous compounds by being added to the water systems, either through spraying or metering, allowing for effective odor control and subsequent reuse of treated water.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of substance
If stagnant water is stored in ponds or lagoons for reuse or makeup, then water recovery and reuse are improved, but odor generation and septic conditions worsen due to anaerobic decomposition of organics
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary substance (humic composition or alternative treatment agents) that mediates between the stagnant water and the harmful odors. This intermediary adsorbs or neutralizes malodorous compounds, allowing the water to be reused without causing odor problems. The intermediary acts as a bridge that enables water recovery while eliminating the harmful effect.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the harmful anaerobic decomposition process into a beneficial one by introducing treatment agents that promote aerobic decomposition or adsorb the harmful products of anaerobic decomposition. The harmful odors generated during storage are transformed into a controlled process that can be managed and even utilized, turning the septic condition into a manageable feature rather than a problem.
2Object-generated harmful factors
If chemical treatment is applied to control odors, then odor reduction is improved, but complexity of treatment process and cost worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs relatively simple, easily applied treatment compositions that can be dosed continuously or intermittently without requiring complex infrastructure. The humic composition or alternative agents are applied in a straightforward manner (spraying, metering, or mixing) and provide effective odor control without the need for complex chemical dosing systems, multiple treatment stages, or specialized equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the chemical parameters of the water by introducing treatment agents that alter the chemical environment to prevent odor formation. By adjusting pH, adding carbon sources, or introducing adsorbents, the chemical conditions are modified to suppress anaerobic decomposition and eliminate odors. This parameter-based approach is simpler than mechanical or biological treatment systems.
3Object-generated harmful factors
If aeration is provided to prevent septic conditions, then odor control is improved, but energy consumption worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables the water system to treat itself by introducing treatment agents that automatically adsorb or neutralize odors without requiring external energy input for aeration or active treatment processes. The treatment composition self-regulates the chemical environment, preventing septic conditions from developing. This self-service approach eliminates the need for continuous energy-consuming aeration systems while maintaining odor control.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the potential harm of stagnant water into a beneficial storage medium by using treatment agents that prevent anaerobic decomposition. Instead of requiring energy-intensive aeration to prevent septic conditions, the treatment agents create a protective chemical environment that allows stagnant water to be stored safely. This transforms the energy-consuming aeration problem into a simple chemical treatment solution.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The humic composition significantly reduces malodorous compounds by 95% or more, maintaining low odor levels even after application has ceased, with settled particles continuing to provide odor reduction and allowing for safe reuse of treated water.
Implementation Method 1
The humic composition can adsorb or otherwise neutralize malodorous compounds such as hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, and mercaptans
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems of controlling odor in. water by adding a humic composition to the water. The humic composition cm adsorb or otherwise neutralize malodorous compounds such as hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, and mercaptans. The methods are useful in food and. agricultural industries where the water may come in contact with food items.