Emissions of chemical compounds and bioaerosols during the secondary treatment of paper mill effluents.

This study identified and quantified the main chemical compounds--the substances responsible for the disagreeable odors--and the bioaerosols emitted during the biological treatment of paper mill effluents. It also identified the characteristics of the process that effects the generation or diffusion of these substances. All treatment stages were evaluated. Measuring sites were located as closely as possible to the potential emission sources. Measurements were taken in the summer in 11 paper mills during a 2- to 3-day period in each mill. Chemical compounds were evaluated by direct-reading instruments; bioaerosols were sampled by impaction and counted. Sulfur compounds, emitted into the air when the effluent or the sludge is stirred, had the highest concentrations; their presence was attributable to such things as kraft-type paper pulp. Next in concentration were the carbon and nitrogen oxides, ammonia, and some organic acids, produced by the action of microorganisms. These acids are found mainly in the sludge environment. Terpenes, which come from wood, are present at various locations in paper mills. Odor perception thresholds for most of these substances are much lower than those established to protect the health of workers. Significant concentrations of total bacteria, total molds, and endotoxins were measured at several sites. Gram-negative bacteria were high at only one site, whereas the mold Aspergillus fumigatus was occasionally present at low concentration. No actinomycetes bacteria were detected. The highest concentrations were measured where there was water or dust aerosolization. Emissions are therefore controlled by controlling the operations that lead to the dispersion of water and particles into the air.