VOC Emissions at Harvest Power’s - Metro Vancouver - Home · Envirochem Services field personnel (Edward Haythornthwaite, Tim Weaver and Gail Slavik). o All flow measurements were

September 2014 Sampling of Odour and

VOC Emissions at Harvest Power’s

Richmond, BC Facility – Revision A

Prepared for:

Harvest Power,

7028 York Road,

Richmond, BC V6W 0B1

Prepared by:

Envirochem Services Inc.

#206-267 Esplanade West,

North Vancouver, BC, V7M 1A5

www.envirochem.com

25 November 2014

20141125-RE-HP-SeptOdourVOC_revA.docx

Table of Contents

1.0 INTRODUCTION............................................................................................. 1

2.0 EMISSION SOURCES ...................................................................................... 1

3.0 SAMPLING PROGRAM ................................................................................... 3

3.1 Instrumentation Used ............................................................................................. 3

3.1.1 Flow measurement ..................................................................................... 3

3.1.2 Odour Sampling .......................................................................................... 4

3.1.3 VOC Sampling .............................................................................................. 4

3.2 Sample Collection ................................................................................................... 4

3.2.1 Flow Measurement ..................................................................................... 4

3.2.2 Odour Sampling .......................................................................................... 4

3.2.3 VOC Sampling .............................................................................................. 5

4.0 SAMPLING RESULTS – SEPTEMBER 2013 ....................................................... 5

4.1 Odour Results .......................................................................................................... 5

4.2 VOC Results ........................................................................................................... 10

List of Tables

TABLE 1: LIST OF SOURCES SAMPLED ON SEPTEMBER 24TH AND 25TH, 2014 ................................................ 3

TABLE 2: BIOFILTER ODOUR THRESHOLD VALUES AND REMOVAL EFFICIENCIES FOR SEPTEMBER 2014 ................. 7

TABLE 3: PILE ODOUR THRESHOLD VALUES FOR SEPTEMBER 2014 ............................................................... 8

TABLE 4: HEDONIC TONE, INTENSITY AND CHARACTERISATION (EOC AND ENVIROCHEM) .................................. 9

TABLE 5: BIOFILTER PID VOC RESULTS (CORRECTED FOR DILUTION) AND REMOVAL EFFICIENCIES. .................... 11

TABLE 6: PILE PID VOC RESULTS (CORRECTED FOR DILUTION). ................................................................... 12

TABLE 7: MEASURED BIOFILTER FLOW & AVERAGE VOC COMPARED TO PERMIT GVA 1054 ............................ 13


List of Figures

FIGURE 1: HARVEST SITE PLAN SHOWING ALL EMISSION SOURCES UNDER PERMIT GVA1054 ............................ 2

List of Appendices

APPENDIX I: BIOFILTER INLET FLOW RATES, PROVIDED BY HARVEST POWER

APPENDIX II: ENVIRONMENTAL ODOUR CONSULTING ODOUR PANEL REPORT

APPENDIX III: SAMPLE COLLECTION PLAN, PERMIT #GVA 1054, QUARTERLY BIOFILTER SAMPLING


1.0 INTRODUCTION

This report summarizes the results of odour samples and volatile organic compound (VOC)

measurements taken at Harvest Power’s (Harvest) Richmond Facility on September 24th and

25th 2014.

The report contains:

A site plan with the permitted and sampled emission sources.

A brief description of the sampling program.

Sampling Results

o Odours were analyzed by Dynamic Olfactometry (odour panel) in accordance

with the European Standard EN 13725: “Air Quality-Determination of Odour

Concentration” by Environmental Odour Consulting Ltd (EOC)

o Hedonic tone and characterization by an odour panel at EOC, as well as

Envirochem Services field personnel (Edward Haythornthwaite, Tim Weaver and

Gail Slavik).

o All flow measurements were taken by Harvest using a hot-wire anemometer.

VOCs were measured in the field using a photoionization detector (PID).

For more details on the Harvest sampling program, please refer to and the sampling plan

entitled: “Sample Collection Plan, Permit #GVA 1054, Quarterly Biofilter Sampling” prepared for

Metro Vancouver by Harvest and Envirochem in April 2014 and Metro Vancouver Permit

GVA1054.

2.0 EMISSION SOURCES

Metro Vancouver Air Permit GVA1054 lists ten emission sources on site. Quarterly odour and

VOC measurements are required by permit at four of these sources (Biofilters), and annually at

four other sources (Static Piles).

The remaining two emission sources (Energy Garden biogas to flare, and CHP exhaust) were not

measured as part of this study. Figure 1 shows all emission sources on site which are covered

by Permit, and Table 1 lists the sources which were sampled on September 24th and 25th 2014.


FIGURE 1: HARVEST SITE PLAN SHOWING ALL EMISSION SOURCES UNDER PERMIT GVA1054


TABLE 1: LIST OF SOURCES SAMPLED ON SEPTEMBER 24TH AND 25TH, 2014

SOURCE

DETAIL LOCATION

SOURCE ID

(PERMIT GVA1054)

DATE SAMPLED

Energy Garden Biofilter Biofilter Inlet

3

24th September 2014

Biofilter Outlet

Southwest Biofilter Inlet Biofilter Inlet

5 Biofilter Outlet

Northeast Biofilter Biofilter Inlet

6 Biofilter Outlet

Screening Biofilter Biofilter Inlet

8 Biofilter Outlet

Waste Receiving Piles Sampled ambient air, ≤2m

from surface of pile 4

25th September 2014 Ageing Piles

Pile surface, 1 x old, 1 x new, 1 x mid-age.

7

Overs Middlings (Mids) and Fines Piles

Pile surface, 1 x overs, 1 x middlings, 1 x fines

9

Finished Product Piles Pile surface, one from each

of three product piles 10

3.0 SAMPLING PROGRAM

This section summarizes the instrumentation and sample collection methodology used during

the sampling event. For a full description of the instrumentation and sample collection

methodology used during the odour sampling event please refer to “Sample Collection Plan,

Permit #GVA 1054, Quarterly Biofilter Sampling” prepared for Metro Vancouver by Harvest and

Envirochem in April 2014.

3.1 INSTRUMENTATION USED

3.1.1 Flow measurement

TSI 8385 “Velocicalc” hot wire anemometer.

35cm diameter stainless steel collection hood with chimney.


3.1.2 Odour Sampling

Scentroid DS5 and SM100 sample diluters, 10L TedlarTM bags, TeflonTM tubing (1/4” OD x

1/8’ ID).

Envirochem Odour Lung.

3.1.3 VOC Sampling

Sample diluters, bags and tubing as described above.

RAE Systems MiniRAE 3000 Photoionization Detector (PID), with 10.6eV lamp.

3.2 SAMPLE COLLECTION

3.2.1 Flow Measurement

Flows were measured at the Biofilter Inlets by Harvest Power using a hot-wire anemometer.

Permit GVA 1054 requires that discharge rates are measured from the piles (EN 04, 07, 09 and

10). In the agreed sampling methodology (December 2013), flow from product piles was to be

measured by hot-wire anemometer, from the chimney of the steel collection hood. Flow could

not be measured from the pile surface by this method.

3.2.2 Odour Sampling

Biofilter outlets were divided into 16 separate equal area sample locations (cells) to allow for a

representative composite sample to be collected, composed of a grab at each of the 16 cells.

Air samples for odour analysis were collected in new, pre-conditioned 10L TedlarTM bags, using

sample diluters (dilution probe) which were set at a factory-calibrated dilution factor, verified

by Envirochem. Surface samples were collected using a static soil gas sampling system

consisting of a circular 35cm diameter stainless steel collection hood fitted with temperature

and sample probe connections and a small vent chimney. When sampling biofilter outlets, this

was moved around the surface of the biofilter, from cell to cell, with a small grab sample

collected at each cell. When sampling surfaces of piles, this was kept in one place for the

duration of sampling.


Due to safety concerns at the waste receiving piles (where there is a lot of heavy vehicle

movement), the collection hood was not used, and ambient samples were collected 1.5m - 2m

away from the surface of the pile, to ensure the sampling team were visible to vehicle

operators at all times. This method was also followed in previous studies (December 2013).

Before sampling, each bag was purged three times with the source discharge air, to ensure the

sampling system (diluter, bags and tubing) were all filled with sample, and all non-sample air

was removed. Clean tubing was used at each source to avoid cross contamination.

Once collected, sample bags were placed in dark bags. At the end of each day, hedonic tone

and character was assessed, and VOC was measured from each bag (see 3.2.2). Bags were then

re-sealed, re-packed and shipped by courier overnight to Environmental Odour Consulting

(EOC) in Ontario to be analyzed the following morning by an odour panel.

3.2.3 VOC Sampling

All bags were sampled for VOC using a PID. Readings were allowed to stabilize for approx. 15

seconds before being noted. Constant gentle pressure was applied to the bag while open to

ensure the sample was not diluted with ambient air. The PID was checked before and after

testing using a zero filter and 100ppm isobutylene span gas. The PID passed both quality

checks.

4.0 SAMPLING RESULTS – SEPTEMBER 2013

4.1 ODOUR RESULTS

The results from Environmental Odour Consulting’s odour panel are presented as Table 2 and

Table 3. The highest average odour concentration (approx. 20,000 OU/m3) was detected at the

South West Biofiter Inlet, followed by the Energy Garden Biofilter Inlet (approx. 15,000 OU/m3).

The odour discharge rates were calculated by multiplying the odour panel measured

concentration by the flow rate provided by Harvest Power (see Appendix I). Removal

efficiencies were calculated based on the average inlet and outlet concentrations. Flows could


not be measured at any pile surface (EN04, 07, 08 and 10), and so discharge rates were

calculated to be 0.

Hedonic Tone, Intensity and Characterization were assessed from bag samples by EOC. EOC’s

measurement of intensity was qualitative (i.e. not per standard ASTM E544). Panelists were

asked to smell samples without dilution and a scale was used to determine intensity. Hedonic

tone and characterization were also assessed from diluted sample bags prior to shipping by

Envirochem. The results are presented in Table 4. Hedonic tone and odour character were not

assessed on site, to avoid potential hazard from breathing undiluted process air.


TABLE 2: BIOFILTER ODOUR THRESHOLD VALUES AND REMOVAL EFFICIENCIES FOR SEPTEMBER 2014

Source Sample Name

Time Sampled

Flow (m3/s)

Odour Concentration (OU/m3) Odour

Discharge Rate (based

on Panel) (OU/s)

Detection Threshold

(Panel)

Detection Threshold

(Scentroid Mask)

3 Energy Garden Biofilter

EG-IN-1 11:25-11:39 6.93

14,180 4,804 98,267

EG-IN-2 11:25-11:39 15,120 4,804 104,782

Average 14,650 4,804 101,525

EG-OUT-1 11:25-11:30 6.93

512 376 3,548

EG-OUT-2 11:35-11:39 1,120 524 7,762

Average 816 450 5,655

SOURCE #3 ODOUR REMOVAL EFFICIENCY 94% 91% 94%

5 Southwest

Biofilter

SW-IN-1 13:15-13:20 5.26

20,980 5,764 110,355

SW-IN-2 13:40-13:45 19,348 5,764 101,770

Average 20,164 5,764 106,063

SW-OUT-1 13:15-13:25 5.26

2,468 1,276 12,982

SW-OUT-2 13:40-13:49 2,880 1,120 15,149

Average 2,674 1,198 14,065


6 Northeast Biofilter

NE-IN-1 14:23-14:26 9.48

13,000 4,804 123,240

NE-IN-2 14:40-14:46 12,436 5,764 117,893

Average 12,718 5,284 120,567

NE-OUT-1 14:20-14:30 9.48

1,860 704 17,633

NE-OUT-2 14:40-14:45 2,096 876 19,870

Average 1,978 790 18,751


8 Screening Biofilter

SE-IN-1 09:45-09:50 4.13

4,400 1,800 18,172

SE-IN-2 10:00-10:05 2,280 1,120 9,416

Average 3,340 1,460 13,794

SE-OUT 1 09:45-09:53 4.13

80 24 330

SE-OUT-2 10:00-10:06 140 32 578

Average 110 28 454



TABLE 3: PILE ODOUR THRESHOLD VALUES FOR SEPTEMBER 2014

Source Sample Name

Time Sampled

Surface Flux

Odour Concentration (OU/m3) Odour Discharge

Rate* (based

on panel) (OU/s)

Detection Threshold

(Panel)

Detection Threshold (Scentroid

Mask)

4 Waste Receiving

Piles

04-1 09:00-09:03 NM 1,120 524

04-2 09:05-09:08 NM 2,004 876

04-3 09:11-09:14 NM 912 436

Average NM 1,345 612 0

7 Ageing Piles

07-1 11:24-11:27 NM 2,080 240

07-2 11:32-11:35 NM 88 28

07-3 11:41-11:44 NM 15,200 5,764

07-4 12:38-12:41 NM 4,150 1,441

Average NM NM 1,868 0

9 Overs Mids and

Fines Piles

09-1 10:35-10:38 NM 76 32

09-2 10:42-10:45 NM 64 32

09-3 10:51-10:54 NM 1,020 436

Average NM 387 167 0

10 Finished Product

Piles

10-1 09:46-09:49 NM 152 28

10-2 09:52-09:55 NM 84 8

10-3 10:00-10:03 NM 2,196 876

Average NM 811 304 0 NM = Not measurable *Flows could not be detected at any pile surface, and so discharge rates are calculated to be 0 at all piles.


TABLE 4: HEDONIC TONE, INTENSITY AND CHARACTERISATION (EOC AND ENVIROCHEM)

Source Sample Name

Environmental Odour Consulting Envirochem - Field Notes

Intensity (From Panel)

Hedonic Tone

(+3 to -3 scale)

Character Hedonic

Tone (+10 to -10 scale)

Descriptors


EG-IN-1 4 -3 rotten food/ pungent/ gas

-9 garbage, earthy

EG-IN-2 4 -3 rotten food/

pungent/ sharp -9 garbage, earthy

EG-OUT-1 3 -2 compost/ rotten

food -8 rotten food, mulch

EG-OUT-2 3 -3 sharp/ compost -8 rotten food, mulch

5 Southwest

Biofilter

SW-IN-1 4 -3 rotten food -8 offensive, woodchip

SW-IN-2 4 -3 rotten food -7 offensive, woodchip

SW-OUT-1 3 -3 sharp/ compost -2 earthy

SW-OUT-2 3 -3 sharp/ compost -3 strong plastic


NE-IN-1 4 -3 rotten food/ gas/

pungent -8

offensive, wet mulch

NE-IN-2 4 -3 rotten food/ gas/

pungent -7

offensive, wet mulch

NE-OUT-1 3 -3 moldy/ compost -6 offensive, strong,

earthy

NE-OUT-2 3 -3 sharp/ moldy/

compost -5

offensive, wet woodchip


SE-IN-1 4 -3 rotten food/ garbage -2 woodpile

SE-IN-2 3 -3 rotten food -1 woodchip

SE-OUT 1 1 -1 compost -4 garbage, earthy,

plastic

SE-OUT-2 2 -2 compost -4 garbage, earthy

4 Waste Receiving

Piles

04-1 3 -3 garbage/ rotten food -2 sharp

04-2 3 -3 garbage/ rotten food -2 sour, sharp

04-3 3 -2 garbage/ rotten food 2 earthy

7 Ageing Piles

07-1 3 -3 rotten food -2 sweet

07-2 1 0 unidentified -4 sharp, fungal

07-3 4 -3 sharp/ rotten food 0 sweet, sharp

07-4 4 -3 rotten food/ tabacco -2 sweet, earthy

9 Overs Middlings and Fines

Piles

09-1 1 -1 garbage -4 sharp, old

cigarettes, bleach

09-2 1 -1 garbage -4 sharp, musty

09-3 3 -3 sour -4 burnt, old cigarettes


Source Sample Name

Environmental Odour Consulting Envirochem - Field Notes

Intensity (From Panel)

Hedonic Tone

(+3 to -3 scale)

Character Hedonic

Tone (+10 to -10 scale)

Descriptors

10 Finished Product

Piles Piles

10-1 2 +1 trees 2 sweet

10-2 1 -1 unidentified 0 earthy, sweet

10-3 3 -3 sharp 2 sweet, wet leaves

As shown in Table 2, the biofilters appeared to be successful at removing odour from the

emissions (84% to 97% efficiency).

As shown in Table 4, the biofilters appeared to be successful in modifying the hedonic tone. The

most commonly used descriptor changed from “rotten food” at the inlets to “compost” at the

outlets.

4.2 VOC RESULTS

The results of field VOC measurements (expressed as methane CH4) and corrected to account

for the dilution factor are summarized in Table 5 and Table 6. Although the PID does not

measure CH4, Permit GVA1054 requires that VOC results be expressed as CH4; thus the PID

readings in parts per million (ppm) were converted to milligrams per cubic metre (mg/m3) as

CH4.


TABLE 5: BIOFILTER PID VOC RESULTS (CORRECTED FOR DILUTION) AND REMOVAL EFFICIENCIES.

Source Sample Name

Time Sampled

Flow (m3/s)

Non Methane

(NM) VOC

(ppm)

NMVOC (mg/m3, as

isobutylene)

NMVOC (mg/m3, as

CH4, per Permit

GVA 1054)

NMVOC Discharge

Rate (mg/s, as

CH4)


EG-IN-1 11:25-11:39 6.93

25.1 58.5 16.7 116

EG-IN-2 11:25-11:39 25 58.3 16.7 115

Average 25.1 58.4 16.7 116

EG-OUT-1 11:25-11:30 6.93

14 32.6 9.3 65

EG-OUT-2 11:35-11:39 12 28.0 8.0 55

Average 13.0 30.3 8.7 60

SOURCE #3 AVG. VOC REMOVAL EFFICIENCY 48% 48% 48% 48%

5 Southwest

Biofilter

SW-IN-1 13:15-13:20 5.26

129.6 302.1 86.4 454

SW-IN-2 13:40-13:45 112 261.1 74.6 393

Average 120.8 281.6 80.5 423

SW-OUT-1 13:15-13:25 5.26

15.6 36.4 10.4 55

SW-OUT-2 13:40-13:49 12.8 29.8 8.5 45

Average 14.2 33.1 9.5 50



NE-IN-1 14:23-14:26 9.48

85 198.2 56.6 537

NE-IN-2 14:40-14:46 103.3 240.8 68.8 653

Average 94.2 219.5 62.7 595

NE-OUT-1 14:20-14:30 9.48

26.4 61.5 17.6 167

NE-OUT-2 14:40-14:45 40.4 94.2 26.9 255

Average 33.4 77.9 22.3 211



SE-IN-1 09:45-09:50 4.13

7.2 16.8 4.8 20

SE-IN-2* 10:00-10:05 4 9.3 2.7 11

Average 5.6 13.1 3.7 15

SE-OUT 1 09:45-09:53 4.13

8.4 19.6 5.6 23

SE-OUT-2 10:00-10:06 3.6 8.4 2.4 10

Average 6.0 14.0 4.0 17

SOURCE #8 AVG. VOC REMOVAL EFFICIENCY -7% -7% -7% -7%


TABLE 6: PILE PID VOC RESULTS (CORRECTED FOR DILUTION).

Source Sample Name

Time Sampled

Non Methane

(NM) VOC

(ppm)

NMVOC (mg/m3, as

isobutylene)

NMVOC (mg/m3, as

CH4, per Permit

GVA 1054)

4 Waste Receiving

Piles

04-1 09:00-09:03 2 4.7 1.3

04-2 09:05-09:08 4 9.3 2.7

04-3 09:11-09:14 2.4 5.6 1.6

Average 2.8 6.5 1.9

7 Ageing Piles

07-1 11:24-11:27 1.6 3.7 1.1

07-2 11:32-11:35 2 4.7 1.3

07-3 11:41-11:44 6.4 14.9 4.3

07-4 12:38-12:41 1.4 3.3 0.9

Average 2.9 6.6 1.9

9 Overs Mids and

Fines Piles

09-1 10:35-10:38 1.2 2.8 0.8

09-2 10:42-10:45 0.8 1.9 0.5

09-3 10:51-10:54 1.6 3.7 1.1

Average 1.2 2.8 0.8

10 Finished Product

Piles

10-1 09:46-09:49 0.8 1.9 0.5

10-2 09:52-09:55 1.6 3.7 1.1

10-3 10:00-10:03 8.4 19.6 5.6

Average 3.6 8.4 2.4 All mg/m

3 concentrations are corrected to 20°C, 1 atmosphere, and are expressed as 100% methane. The

instrument detection limit was 0.1ppm, which leads to a detection limit of 0.3 mg/m3 as CH4 where the sample was

diluted, and 0.1mg/m3 as CH4 where the sample was undiluted. All results shown were above detection limit.

Removal efficiencies have been calculated as [1-(average outlet concentration/average inlet concentration)]. The removal efficiency calculated at the screening biofilter (Table 5) is suspect. The inlet draws ambient air at the top of the screener, and can be heavily diluted, depending on local conditions. Where inlet concentrations are low, the removal efficiency calculation is more sensitive minor concentration fluctuations.

VOC discharge rates (mg/min) were calculated by multiplying concentration (mg/m3) by the

flow rate (m3/s) measured by Harvest Power (see Appendix I) and comparing the average inlet

concentration to the average outlet concentration.

As shown in Table 5, the biofilters appeared to be successful in removing VOC from the

emissions, with the exception of EN08, the screening biofilter.


While it is unclear whether the screening biofilter removed VOC, it appears to have been very

successful at removing odour (97% removal efficiency), which is the biofilter’s primary purpose.

Flow rates and emission concentrations were compared to permit maximums in Table 7. All

biofilter flow rates were below permit maximums.

TABLE 7: MEASURED BIOFILTER FLOW & AVERAGE VOC COMPARED TO PERMIT GVA 1054

Source Flow

(m3/min)

Permit Maximum

Flow (m3/min)

Average VOC as

CH4 (mg/m3)

Permit Maximum

VOC as CH4

(mg/m3)

Measured Emission Rate as

CH4 (mg/min)

Permit Maximum Emission

Rate as CH4 (mg/min)


415.8 1,150 8.7 0.53 220 610

5 Southwest Biofilter

315.6 1,200 9.5 7.6 2,399 9,120


568.8 1,200 22.3 7.6 4,323 9,120


247.8 552 4.0 28.8 7,137 15,898

TOTAL - - - - 14,078 34,748

VOC concentration at the energy garden biofilter (EN03) was 8.7 mg/m3 – which is above the

permit maximum of 0.53mg/m3. However, the emission rate was 220 mg/min, below the

permit maximum of 610 mg/min (calculated based on maximum flow and concentration

prescribed in the permit). The calculated removal efficiency was 48% (i.e. the biofilter

appeared to be effective at removing VOC).

VOC concentration at the southwest biofilter (EN05) was 9.5 mg/m3 – which is above the

permit maximum of 7.6mg/m3. However, the emission rate was 2,399 mg/ min, below the

permit maximum of 9,120 (calculated based on maximum flow and concentration prescribed in

the permit).The calculated removal efficiency was 88% (i.e. the biofilter appeared to be

effective at removing VOC).


VOC concentration at the northeast biofilter (EN06) was 22.3 mg/m3 – which is above the

permit maximum of 7.6mg/m3. However, the emission rate was 4,323 mg/ min, below the

permit maximum of 9,120 (calculated based on maximum flow and concentration prescribed in

the permit).The calculated removal efficiency was 65% (i.e. the biofilter appeared to be

effective at removing VOC).

Measured VOC at the screening biofilter (EN08) was 4 mg/m3 –below the permit maximum of

28.8 mg/m3. The calculated removal efficiency was -7%, which is a suspect result, for reasons

outlined previously.

SEPTEMBER 2014 ODOUR AND VOC SAMPLING, HARVEST POWER Appendix I

APPENDIX I:

BIOFILTER INLET FLOW RATES

HARVEST POWER

SEPTEMBER 2014 ODOUR AND VOC SAMPLING, HARVEST POWER Appendix I

Velocity & Flow of Gas Stream in biofilters, 24 September 2014

EG BIOFILTER NE BIOFILTER

Velocity Measurements (m/s) 3.68 Velocity Measurements (m/s) 9.35

3.5 8.99

3.66 9.21

3.95 9.19

3.98 10.05

3.79 9.19

3.67 8.86

3.84 9.44

3.7 9.45

3.98 9.12

4.04 8.93

3.82 9.06

Mean (m/s) 3.80 Mean (m/s) 9.24

Flow (m3/s) 6.93 Flow (m3/s) 9.48

SW BIOFILTER SCREENER BIOFILTER

Velocity Measurements (m/s) 4.77 Velocity Measurements (m/s) 6.05

5.02 6.65

5.33 7.04

5.47 7.32

5.19 6

5.06 2.63

4.89 4.57

5.6 4.36

5.22 4.24

5.37 8.44

5 9.15

4.61 8.88

Mean (m/s) 5.13 Mean (m/s) 6.28

Flow (m3/s) 5.26 Flow (m3/s) 4.13

SEPTEMBER 2014 ODOUR AND VOC SAMPLING, HARVEST POWER Appendix II

APPENDIX II:

ENVIRONMENTAL ODOUR CONSULTING

ODOUR PANEL REPORT

Report

Odour Evaluation of Twenty Nine Air Samples Report to: Harvest Power Mr. Scott Kerr Manager, R&D and Compliance 7028 York Road Richmond, BC V6W0B1 Tel: (604) 341 4157 E-mail: [email protected]

Prepared by: Environmental Odour Consulting Anna H. Bokowa, M.Sc. Principal Tel: (647) 988 5814 [email protected]

Date of Report: October 6, 2014 9 pages

mailto:[email protected]

Table of Contents Page 1. INTRODUCTION……………………..…………………………………………………………………………………………………3

2. TEST METHODOLOGY .. ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………3 2.1 Odour Evaluation for Odour Detection Threshold Values . ………………………………………………………….3 2.2 Direct Evaluation .. ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..4

3. RESULTS.... …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………4 Table 1A Odour Detection Threshold Values (ODTV)-Batch 1………………………………………………….6 Table 1B Odour Detection Threshold Values (ODTV)-Batch 2………………………………………………….7 Table 2A Direct Evaluation Results – Batch 1…………………………………………………………………………8 Table 2B Direct Evaluation Results- Batch 2…………………………………………………………………………..9

1. INTRODUCTION

Harvest Power (Harvest) asked Environmental Odour Consulting (EOC) to evaluate twenty nine (29) air samples collected by Envirochem Services Inc.

All samples were shipped via Air Canada Cargo in two batches. EOC retrieved the samples from the Air Canada Cargo terminal in Mississauga, Ontario for same-day evaluations. The first batch of sixteen (16) samples was delivered on September 25, 2014. The second batch of thirteen (13) samples was delivered on September 26, 2014. All evaluations for odour detection threshold value (ODTV) were performed according to the European standard EN13725: 2003 and Ontario Ministry of the Environment Method ON-6 using dynamic olfactometry with screened panelists. In addition, all samples were evaluated for intensity, hedonic tone and character of the odour. Also, the same samples were evaluated for ODTV using a Scentroid SM100 Field Olfactometer developed by IDES Canada.

2. TEST METHODOLOGY

2.1 Odour Evaluation for Odour Detection Threshold Values

The odour samples were evaluated within thirty hours after collection by the dynamic dilution olfactometer at the EOC laboratory, based on European Standard EN 13725:2003 and Ontario Ministry of the Environment Method ON-6 “Determination of Odour Emission from Stationary Sources.”

The binary choice mode was chosen for odour evaluations.

The panelists’ responses were recorded by computer software and were processed to determine the odour detection threshold value (ODTV) for each sample. The ODTV is a dilution factor and therefore has no units. For convenience however, the ODTV may be expressed in odour units (ou). A screened odour panel was used for all evaluations. They were tested for odour sensitivity and are considered to be within the normal range according to the European Standard EN 13725:2003. Each sample was evaluated once according to the Ontario Ministry of Environment Method ON-6.

In addition, the same sample was evaluated by one panelist for ODTV using a Scentroid SM100 Field Olfactometer with attached port. Different plates were used for this purpose which covered different ranges for ODTV evaluation. Two laboratory blanks were also evaluated the same way as actual samples.

2.2 Direct Evaluation

All samples were also evaluated for the intensity, hedonic tone and character of the odour. For intensity, each panelist was asked to smell a bag directly without any dilution and use an intensity scale to determine the intensity of the detected odour.

The following scale was used.

0 ...........................no odour

1 ...........................slight odour

2 ...........................moderate odour

3 ...........................strong odour

4 ...........................extreme odour

For hedonic tone, each panelist was asked to smell a bag directly without any dilution and use a hedonic tone scale in order to determine if the detected odour is pleasant or unpleasant.

The following scale was used:

-3 ..........................very unpleasant

-2 ..........................unpleasant

-1 ..........................slightly unpleasant

0 ...........................neutral

+1..........................slightly pleasant

+2..........................pleasant

+3..........................very pleasant

An average for all panelist responses was used for calculating the hedonic tone of each sample. The panelists were also asked to use their own words to describe the character of the detected odour. The most common descriptor used by the panelists was used as the overall character descriptor for a sample.

3. RESULTS Table 1A and Table 1B present the results for odour detection threshold values obtained by evaluation of the samples using dynamic olfactometry as well as the ODTV from one panelist when the Scentroid SM100 was used. Table 2A and Table 2B show the results for direct evaluation of each sample. Comment:

It was noticed that some of the samples with very strong odour were placed together with the samples with very low odour, therefore there is a possibility of cross contamination of these samples during the shipment.

Anna H. Bokowa, M.Sc Principal, Environmental Odour Consulting

EOC Sample No Client EOC Dilution Raw ODTV Net ODTV Raw ODTV Net ODTV

Sample Sample ou ou ou ou

Identification Identification EOC Panel EOC Panel Scentroid Scentroid

port port

Sample 1 SE-Out 1 B25091452 4 20 80 6 24

Sample 2 SE-Out 2 B25091453 4 35 140 8 32

Sample 3 EG-Out 1 B25091454 4 128 512 94 376

Sample 4 EG-Out 2 B25091455 4 260 1040 131 524

Sample 5 SW-Out 1 B25091462 4 617 2468 319 1276

Sample 6 SW-Out 2 B25091457 4 720 2880 280 1120

Sample 7 NE-Out 1 B25091458 4 465 1860 176 704

Sample 8 NE-Out 2 B25091459 4 524 2096 219 876

Sample 9 SE-In 1 B25091460 4 1100 4400 450 1800

Sample 10 SE-In 2 B25091461 4 570 2280 280 1120

Sample 11 EG-In 1A B25091462 4 3545 14180 1201 4804

Sample 12 EG-In 2 B25091463 4 3780 15120 1201 4804

Sample 13 SW-In 1 B25091464 4 5245 20980 1,441 5764

Sample 14 SW-In 2 B25091465 4 4837 19348 1441 5764

Sample 15 NE-In 1A B25091466 4 3250 13000 1201 4804

Sample 16 NE-In 2A B25091467 4 3109 12436 1441 5764

Laboratory Blank LB1 B25091402 1 <8 <8 <DL <DL

Table 1 A

Odour Detection Threshold Values- Date of Evaluation: September 25, 2014- Batch 1

EOC Sample No Client EOC Dilution Raw ODTV Net ODTV Raw ODTV Net ODTV

Sample Sample ou ou ou ou

Identification Identification EOC Panel EOC Panel Scentroid port Scentroid

port

Sample 3 04-1 B26091480 4 280 1120 131 524

Sample 4 04-2 B26091481 4 501 2004 219 876

Sample 5 04-3 B26091482 4 228 912 109 436

Sample 6 10-1 B26091484 4 38 152 7 28

Sample 7 10-2 B26091485 4 21 84 2 8

Sample 8 10-3 B26091483 4 549 2196 219 876

Sample 9 07-1 B26091486 4 520 2080 60 240

Sample 10 07-2 B26091487 4 22 88 7 28

Sample 11 07-3 B26091488 4 3800 15200 1441 5764

Sample 12 07-4 B26091489 1 4150 4150 1441 1441

Sample 13 09-1 B26091490 4 19 76 8 32

Sample 14 09-2 B26091491 4 16 64 8 32

Sample 15 09-3 B26091492 4 255 1020 109 436

Laboratory Blank LB 2 B26091477 1 <8 <8 <DL <DL

Table 1 B

Odour Detection Threshold Values- Date of Evaluation: September 26, 2014- Batch 2

EOC Identification Client Sample Intensity* Hedonic

Number Identification Tone* Character

Number

Sample 1 SE-Out 1 1 -1 compostSample 2 SE-Out 2 2 -2 compostSample 3 EG-Out 1 3 -2 compost/rotten foodSample 4 EG-Out 2 3 -3 sharp/compostSample 5 SW-Out 1 3 -3 sharp/compostSample 6 SW-Out 2 3 -3 sharp/compostSample 7 NE-Out 1 3 -3 moldy/compostSample 8 NE-Out 2 3 -3 sharp/moldy/compostSample 9 SE-In 1 4 -3 rotten food/garbage

Sample 10 SE-In 2 3 -3 rotten foodSample 11 EG-In 1A 4 -3 rotten food/pungent/gasSample 12 EG-In 2A 4 -3 rotten food/ pungent/sharpSample 13 SW-In 1A 4 -3 rotten foodSample 14 SW-In 2 4 -3 rotten foodSample 15 NE-In 1A 4 -3 rotten food/gas/pungentSample 16 NE-In 2A 4 -3 rotten food/gas/pungent

* - Average of all Panelists

Hedonic Tone Scale: Intensity Scale:

-3 Very Unpleasant 0 Neutral 0 - No odour

-2 Unpleasant +1 Slightly Pleasant 1 - Slight

-1 Slightly Unpleasant +2 Pleasant 2 - Moderate

+3 Very Pleasant 3 - Strong

4 - Extreme

TABLE 2A

Direct Evaluation Results- Date of Evaluation:September 25, 2014-Batch 1

EOC Identification Client Sample Intensity* Hedonic

Number Identification Tone* Character

Number

Sample 3 04-1 3 -3 garbage/rotten foodSample 4 04-2 3 -3 garbage/rotten foodSample 5 04-3 3 -2 garbage/rotten foodSample 6 10-1 2 +1 treesSample 7 10-2 1 -1 undentifiedSample 8 10-3 3 -3 sharpSample 9 07-1 3 -3 rotten food

Sample 10 07-2 1 0 undentifiedSample 11 07-3 4 -3 sharp/rotten foodSample 12 07-4 4 -3 rotten food/ tabaccoSample 13 09-1 1 -1 garbageSample 14 09-2 1 -1 garbageSample 15 09-3 3 -3 sour

* - Average of all Panelists

Hedonic Tone Scale: Intensity Scale:

-3 Very Unpleasant 0 Neutral 0 - No odour

-2 Unpleasant +1 Slightly Pleasant 1 - Slight

-1 Slightly Unpleasant +2 Pleasant 2 - Moderate

+3 Very Pleasant 3 - Strong

4 - Extreme

TABLE 2B

Direct Evaluation Results- Date of Evaluation:September 26, 2014-Batch 2

10

SEPTEMBER 2014 ODOUR AND VOC SAMPLING, HARVEST POWER Appendix III

APPENDIX III:

SAMPLE COLLECTION PLAN

PERMIT #GVA 1054

QUARTERLY BIOFILTER SAMPLING

Sample Collection Plan

Permit #GVA1054

Quarterly Biofilter Sampling

Prepared for:

Metro Vancouver

4330 Kingsway

Burnaby, B.C. V5H 4G8

Prepared by:

Harvest Power

7028 York Road,

Richmond, B.C. V6W 0B1

Envirochem Services Inc.

206 – 267 West Esplanade

North Vancouver, BC V7M 1A5

www.envirochem.com

April 21, 2014

Page i

20140421_ Harvest Power Quarterly Sampling Plan Rev A

TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION .......................................................................................................................... 1 1.0

SAMPLING OBJECTIVES ........................................................................................................... 1 2.0

SAMPLING EQUIPMENT ........................................................................................................... 1 3.0

SAMPLING LOCATIONS ............................................................................................................ 2 4.0

SAMPLING METHODS ............................................................................................................... 3 5.0

SAMPLING SET-UP ..................................................................................................................................... 4 5.1

PID ZERO/ SPAN CHECK, COLLECTION OF FIELD ODOUR BLANK ...................................................... 4 5.2

SAMPLE COLLECTION ................................................................................................................................ 5 5.3

MAINTENANCE OF SAMPLE INTEGRITY ............................................................................ 9 6.0

SHIPPING AND CHAIN OF CUSTODY .................................................................................... 9 7.0

LIST OF FIGURES FIGURE 1: ODOUR DILUTION PROBE WITH NITROGEN CYLINDER ................................................................ 2

FIGURE 2: SITE PLAN SHOWING EMISSION SOURCES IN PERMIT GVA1054 ..................................................... 3

FIGURE 3: DIAGRAM TO SHOW EQUIPMENT SET-UP AT BIOFILTER INLETS .......................................................... 6

FIGURE 4: DIAGRAM TO SHOW EQUIPMENT SET-UP AT BIOFILTER OUTLETS. ...................................................... 7

LIST OF APPENDICES APPENDIX I: SCENTROID DS5 STACK DILUTING SAMPLER MANUAL

APPENDIX II: CHAIN OF CUSTODY FORM

1

20140421_ HARVEST POWER QUARTERLY SAMPLING PLAN REV A

INTRODUCTION 1.0

This Sample Collection Plan was prepared in part fulfillment of Schedule A of Section 3 of the

Metro Vancouver Air Permit #GVA-1054 (Fraser Richmond Soil & Fibre) issued May 11, 2013.

SAMPLING OBJECTIVES 2.0

The overall sampling objectives are to take representative, reliable, and repeatable samples

that can be submitted for subsequent odour analyses by an odour panel, and that can be used

to assess the emissions from, and removal efficiencies of, four biofilters on site. Odour sampling

and analysis are designed to conform to EN 13725:2003 “Air Quality – Determination of Odour

Thresholds by Dynamic Dilution Olfactometry” and Envirochem Services Inc.’s Odour Sampling

Manual. Total VOC sampling and analysis has been designed by Envirochem Services Inc. to

address the requirements of the permit in an efficient and reliable manner.

Sampling is conducted once per quarter, with testing waived for the first calendar quarter of

the year (January, February and March, inclusive).

SAMPLING EQUIPMENT 3.0

The following equipment is used for collection of odour and VOC samples:

1. Sampling bags - New 10 litre pre-conditioned Tedlar ™ bags. These are normally

provided by the odour panel which is currently Environmental Odour Consulting.

Nalophan bags may be used in the future if Tedlar bags are unavailable.

2. Sample tubing - New ¼ inch diameter Teflon ™ tubing is currently used.

3. Kestrel® 4000 Pocket Weather Tracker™ or similar

4. Records wind speed, temperature, and humidity. Data is also available from nearby

weather stations.

5. Odour dilution probe, Scentroid DS5 Stack dilution probe (manufactured by IDES

Canada Inc., see Figure 1), used to dilute air samples with carbon-filtered clean air to a

pre-determined ratio. Cylinder of Carbon Filtered Scuba Air - Used in conjunction with

the odour dilution probe to dilute the odour samples with clean (carbon filtered) air.

6. Photoionization Detector (PID)

o Allows for measurement of VOC (excluding CH4) in the field.

o Calibrated using isobutylene, and checked with span/ bump gases of known

concentration.

2


FIGURE 1: ODOUR DILUTION PROBE WITH NITROGEN CYLINDER

SAMPLING LOCATIONS 4.0

Quarterly sampling requires that the inlets and outlets of emission sources 3, 5, 6 and 8 are

sampled (the four biofilters on site, shown in Figure 2), in such a manner that removal rates for

VOC can be calculated, and odour removal can be described. Inlet measurements and samples

will be conducted at the inlet duct, and the surface of the biofilter will be divided into a grid to

enable representative measurements and sampling to be conducted.

In addition to the source locations, it is proposed to collect one field blank of undiluted dilution

air for analysis by the odour panel, Environmental Odour Consulting.

3


FIGURE 2: SITE PLAN SHOWING EMISSION SOURCES IN PERMIT GVA1054

SAMPLING METHODS 5.0

The odour sample collection methodology used by Envirochem Services Inc. while sampling at

Harvest Power’s Richmond operation is consistent with the procedures specified in EN

13725:2003 “Air Quality – Determination of Odour Thresholds by Dynamic Dilution

Olfactometry”.

4


Anna Bokowa of Environmental Odour Consulting has been consulted on the sampling plan and

approves the methods described here for attaining the most accurate, reliable odour

measurements.

The method described here is for taking VOC measurements and odour samples with pre-

dilution. It is known from previous sampling experience at the site that there is a risk of

condensation for all sources. EN 13725:2003 states that “Pre-dilution of the stream of odorous

gases shall be applied when there is a risk of condensation of the sample when stored at

ambient conditions”.

Sampling Set-up 5.1

1) Meet with a site representative to discuss the odour sampling plan and safety issues,

and to make sure that all necessary processes are in operation and operating at

representative rates. Ensure that the required operating data will be logged during the

testing by Harvest Power operating staff. If Metro Vancouver employees are present to

witness the testing then there is a short meeting to confirm the test program and

activities.

2) Mark out a grid with 16 cells on the biofilter outlet. This can be done by marking the

halfway point on each wall of the biofilter outlet with flagging tape (to give 4 grid cells),

and then once again marking roughly halfway between the centre-point and each

corner (to give 16 grid cells). Label cells on site notes with a north point as reference.

3) Write down any descriptors and the hedonic tone of the odour emission source.

4) If the sampling location is new, be sure to take a photo of the location. If the location

has been tested before, make note of any changes.

5) Attach a t-connector to the outlet of the DS5, to allow VOC to be measured

simultaneously with odour sample collection.

PID Zero/ Span Check, Collection of Field Odour Blank 5.2

1) A t-connector is attached to the DS5 outlet, and the PID probe is inserted.

2) The DS5 inlet is sealed, and the probe is used to collect a sample of 100% dilution air,

which is labelled “Field Blank” and set aside in a dark bag. PID readings are taken while

the Field blank is collected, and these readings are treated as a zero.

3) The PID is subjected to a span check, using 100% bump gas.

5


Sample Collection 5.3

1) Biofilters should be sampled one at a time. Inlet and outlet samples should be collected

alternately, using the same dilution probe. Collecting samples alternately rather than

simultaneously also allows the work to be undertaken using a single dilution probe,

which reduces the risk of imprecision that could be found between two different

dilution instruments. Use of a single diluter also reduces sampling costs. The probe

should be purged between each sample, according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

All samples should be collected (2 inlet, 2 outlet & VOC) from each biofilter before

moving on to another.

2) To purge the bags and sample line, connect the bag to the DS5 outlet line, downstream

of the T connector. Select the correct dilution factor on the probe (100:1 for stronger

sources, 35:1 for weaker sources). Fill the bags so they are approximately one quarter

full then stop. Ensure that air has gotten into all corners and edges of the sample bag.

3) Disconnect the bag, and squeeze the bag gently to purge sample air from the Tedlar ™

bags. Do this until the bags are empty again.

4) Repeat steps 2 and 3 two more times. This ensures that the bags and sample lines have

been purged and conditioned with the odourous sample air for a total of three times.

5) Connect the DS5 to the source. Where the source is the inlet, this should be connected

using clean TeflonTM tubing, which is held in place in the centre of the inlet duct. Where

the source is the outlet, the DS5 should be connected to a stainless steel chimney

accumulation device. Samples are collected by holding down the button on the DS5 for

a known period of time at a known dilution ratio.

6) At the Inlet, sampling equipment should be set up as shown in Figure 3. The sample

should be collected continuously in one event, noting the start time and end time, and

dilution factor, which should be set to 100:1 (Position 1 when using calibrated COA plate

“H”). PID readings are collected simultaneously using the t- connector, and a minimum

of 16 readings should be taken.

6


FIGURE 3: DIAGRAM TO SHOW EQUIPMENT SET-UP AT BIOFILTER INLETS

7) The outlet sample should be a composite of 16 timed grab samples, each collected from

a different cell on the biofilter outlet. Each grab should be approximately 15 seconds,

but timings can be adjusted on site as required, to ensure each cell is adequately

sampled. The start time, end time and dilution factor (35:1, or Position 4 when using

calibrated COA plate “H”) should be recorded.

8) To set up the chimney accumulation device, and when moving from cell to cell, care

should be taken to not disturb the surface of the biofilter. The device should be placed

gently down and wrapped in a clean nylon tube to prevent ambient air from infiltrating

under the device and diluting the sample.

9) For the first cell at each biofilter, the sample bag should be disconnected and sealed, the

chimney should be unplugged, and the DS5 should be used to collect a sample which

vents to atmosphere. PID readings should be taken, and the time it takes for these

readings to stabilise should be noted. This is the time it takes for the chimney

accumulation device to fill with the sample air.

10) The plug should then be replaced, and the sample bag should be reconnected. A 15

second grab should be taken, and a minimum of two VOC measurements should be

recorded. Figure 4 shows the equipment set-up for collecting each outlet cell sample.

P.I.D. measurement

from t-connecter

Tedlar sample tubing inserted

into pre-drilled hole in Inlet Duct, and

marked to ensure sample collection

from centre of duct

DS5 Sample diluter Sample bag (removed for step 9)

(Sample flow

shown in blue)

7


FIGURE 4: DIAGRAM TO SHOW EQUIPMENT SET-UP AT BIOFILTER OUTLETS.

11) The chimney device should then be moved to the next cell, and unplugged for sufficient

time to fill with sample air. The plug is replaced and the next diluted grab sample is

collected, and two more VOC measurements are recorded.

12) Bags should be filled until they are 80-100% full, to enable subsequent scentroid analysis

on site by Harvest Power prior to shipping. Please note that some air should be released

prior to packing and shipping, as the bags can burst in transit (by air) to the odour panel.

Bags should be no more than 75% full if being transported by air.

13) Detach the sample bag(s) from the probe and immediately close the bag with the

provided plastic peg and fitting. A small amount of sample may escape during this

process. Tie on a label to the bag that depicts the sample ID and sample date. Do not

write on the bag, or affix any labels to the surface of the bag.

14) Log sample ID and date on the chain of custody form to ensure and maintain sample

integrity. Examine the bag for any leaks (apply slight pressure and re-check valves for

tightness and proper seal) and if none are found then place the filled labelled inside a

dark bag and container for temporary storage. Try to limit the amount of time the

sample bag is exposed to sunlight as this can lead to degradation of odorous

compounds. Some compounds are also susceptible to degradation from heat so the

dark bag and container should be kept in the shade. Any abnormalities during sampling

should be noted.

15) Pass samples to Harvest Power for scentroid analysis. Prior to shipping to the odour

panel, repeat the sample integrity checks described in steps 12-14.

16) Purge the diluter in accordance with the manufacturer’s specifications.

P.I.D. measurement

from t-connecter

Chimney Accumulation Device

with Nylon tube to exclude ambient air

(unplugged when setting up,

plugged when sampling)

DS5 Sample diluter Sample bag (removed for step 9)

(Emissions/ sample flow

shown in blue)

Biofilter Biofilter

8


17) Repeat set-up and collection steps for any subsequent sample locations. Do not re-use

the Teflon ™ sampling line that was cut for the previous location. In the case of very

strong odours, possible cross-contamination or moisture, all tubing must be replaced.

18) Inlet and outlet samples will not be packaged or shipped together to reduce the risk of

cross-contamination.

Note: if condensation appears in the bag as the sample is being collected, or if the PID gives

error messages due to moisture or readings deemed to be unreliably high or low by the

samplers (based on their previous experience with sampling at the site), or if the results of

repeat analyses vary significantly, then diluted VOC samples will be collected in bags and

sent to a lab for analysis by gas chromatography (EPA method 18).

9


MAINTENANCE OF SAMPLE INTEGRITY 6.0

The methods set out in this procedure are designed to ensure sample integrity. Sample integrity

is ensured by:

1) Use of suitable and clean materials and equipment (such as clean sample line, and clean,

conditioned Tedlar ™ bags),

2) Diluting where necessary to avoid interference from condensation,

3) Shipping immediately following collection, to minimise the risk of odours degrading or

altering over time.

SHIPPING AND CHAIN OF CUSTODY 7.0

1) After all samples have been collected, and are ready to ship, each is placed in a thin garbage

bag, supplied by the odour panel. The double-bagged samples are then placed in a large

plastic shipping container, with strong samples and weak samples packed separately.

2) Using the chain of custody as a reference, all samples are checked to ensure that they are

present. The chain of custody form is copied, and placed in each shipping container along

with the samples. A copy of the chain of custody is retained. An example of a chain of

custody form used by Envirochem is shown in Appendix II. For all samples, analysis is

requested for detection/recognition threshold as well as hedonic tone.

3) The lid of the shipping container is secured with duct tape to prevent it from accidentally

opening during shipping, and address labels are attached.

4) Containers are shipped, either by pick-up or by delivery to courier depot. The shipment is

sent by air, for 9am delivery next day, to ensure samples can be analysed within 30 hours of

collection, as required by the EN 13725:2003 standard.

Documents

VOC Emissions at Harvest Power’s - Metro Vancouver - Home · Envirochem Services field personnel (Edward Haythornthwaite, Tim Weaver and Gail Slavik). o All flow measurements were