Solving odor at the source

Growing urban populations and increasingly strict environmental regulations have placed air quality high on the agenda for industrial manufacturers.

Within the pet food industry, odor management is becoming an essential operational consideration. Odor emissions from production processes such as extrusion, drying and cooling can lead to complaints from local communities, pose reputational risks and result in regulatory action.

The production of dry pet food releases volatile organic compounds, particularly during high-temperature processes. These odors are typically emitted through factory exhaust systems and can impact surrounding areas.

Traditional abatement methods, such as chemical scrubbers or water-based filters, often require significant energy, ongoing maintenance or the use of chemicals, leading to additional operational costs and environmental concerns.

Cold plasma injection as an innovative solution

A relatively recent and sustainable approach is the use of cold plasma technology for odor treatment. Cold plasma is an ionized gas, known as the fourth state of matter alongside solid, liquid and gas.

In cold plasma modules, ambient air is converted into a reactive mixture rich in active oxygen species. When these reactive particles encounter odorous compounds in the process air, a rapid oxidation reaction takes place, effectively breaking down the odor molecules.

The major advantage of this technology is that it only uses electricity and does not require chemicals or water. There is no secondary waste stream, making it an environmentally friendly technology with low energy consumption. This makes cold plasma a sustainable and practical solution for industrial odor control.

The Aerox-Injector in action

One example of this technology in practice is the Aerox-Injector, an odor control system installed directly on industrial exhausts.

The design ensures that the plasma modules remain clean, as there is no direct contact between the process air and the plasma field. This reduces maintenance requirements and extends the lifespan of the equipment.

With the capacity to treat up to 250,000 m³ of air per hour, the system is suitable for large-scale production lines. Currently, more than 350 installations worldwide rely on this proven technology.

A sustainable investment

For manufacturers in the pet food industry, reducing odor emissions is not only a regulatory necessity but also an opportunity to invest in future-proof, sustainable solutions.

Cold plasma injection technology offers an effective, low-impact alternative to traditional odor abatement methods, providing benefits for both operational efficiency and the wider environment.