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Atmosphere
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Environmental Odour (2nd Edition)
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Environmental Odour (2nd Edition)

A Special Issue of Atmosphere (ISSN 2073-4433) belonging to the section "Air Quality".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (11 May 2026) | Viewed by 14585

Editors

Prof. Dr. Günther Schauberger

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Guest Editor
WG Environmental Health, University of Veterinary Medicine, 1210 Vienna, Austria
Interests: annoyance assessment; odour emission; determination of odour exposure
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Martin Piringer

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Guest Editor
Zentralanstalt für Meteorologie und Geodynamik, Hohe Warte 38, 1190 Vienna, Austria
Interests: odour dispersion; environmental pollution; boundary-layer meteorology; urban meteorology
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Environmental odor is perceived as a major nuisance by both the rural and urban population. The sources of odorous substances are manifold. In urban areas, these include restaurants, small manufacturing trades, and other sources, which might cause complaints.

In the suburbs, wastewater treatment plants, landfill sites, and other infrastructures are the expected sources of major odor. These problems are often caused be the accelerated growth of cities. In rural sites, livestock farming and the spreading of manure on the fields is blamed for severe odor annoyance. In fact, environmental odors are considered to be a common cause of public complaints to local authorities, regional, or national environmental agencies. With a first edition successfully published in 2021, this second edition of the Special Issue series of Atmosphere will continue to address the entire chain, from the quantification of odor sources, abatement methods, dilution in the atmosphere, and the assessment of odor exposure for the an evaluation of annoyance. In particular, this series aims to encourage contributions that deal with field trials and dispersion modeling to assess the degree of annoyance and the quantitative success of abatement measures.

Prof. Dr. Günther Schauberger
Dr. Martin Piringer
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

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Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-anonymized peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Atmosphere is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • odor
  • emission
  • dilution
  • atmospheric dispersion
  • ambient odor concentration
  • annoyance
  • separation distance

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Related Special Issue

Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

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27 pages, 6605 KB  
Article
OAV-Based Source Characterization of Designated Odor Compounds in Long-Term Continuous Monitoring Data with Severe Missingness
by Chae-ho Kim, Dong-chul Shin and Myeong-woon Kim
Atmosphere 2026, 17(9), 868; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos17090868 - 4 Sep 2026
Viewed by 246
Abstract
Odor management requires consideration of both compound concentrations and olfactory impacts determined by odor threshold concentrations. This study evaluated missing-data structures, interpolation performance, odor activity value (OAV)-based odor contributions, and seasonal compositional changes using 20 min monitoring data for 22 designated odor compounds [...] Read more.
Odor management requires consideration of both compound concentrations and olfactory impacts determined by odor threshold concentrations. This study evaluated missing-data structures, interpolation performance, odor activity value (OAV)-based odor contributions, and seasonal compositional changes using 20 min monitoring data for 22 designated odor compounds collected from a livestock farm, a wastewater treatment facility, and an anonymized organic waste treatment facility in Eumseong, Republic of Korea (Site C), from 1 August 2022 to 30 June 2023. Because the dataset contained multi-week to multi-month block missing periods, compound-specific interpolation performance was assessed using block holdout validation with BiLSTM, BiGRU, TCN, Transformer, and HistGradientBoostingRegressor models. OAV, summed odor activity value (SOAV), and odor contribution (OC) were calculated primarily from observed concentrations, while fully interpolated series were additionally used for sensitivity comparison to evaluate interpolation-induced bias. Ammonia was excluded from OAV analysis owing to its low valid observation rate. Among the analyzable compounds, odor contribution was dominated by volatile fatty acids and trimethylamine rather than hydrogen sulfide. The livestock farm and wastewater treatment facility showed n-valeric-acid-dominated profiles, whereas Site C showed a mixed profile involving valeric acids and trimethylamine. Seasonal analysis indicated relatively consistent fatty-acid-dominated compositions at the livestock farm and wastewater treatment facility, while Site C showed a possible shift from fatty-acid dominance in warm seasons to trimethylamine dominance in cold seasons. These results provide an OAV-based framework for identifying odor management priorities in long-term continuous odor datasets with severe missingness. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Odour (2nd Edition))
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29 pages, 8289 KB  
Article
Clustering as a Prerequisite for Reliable Machine Learning Prediction of Multi-Odor Systems in Wastewater Treatment
by Su-chul Yoon, Chae-ho Kim and Dong-chul Shin
Atmosphere 2026, 17(1), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos17010018 - 23 Dec 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1115
Abstract
Complex odor emissions from wastewater treatment plants consist of multiple volatile compounds that exhibit heterogeneous temporal dynamics and low linear correlations, making accurate prediction and interpretation difficult when analyzed on a single-compound basis. This study investigates whether clustering can serve not only as [...] Read more.
Complex odor emissions from wastewater treatment plants consist of multiple volatile compounds that exhibit heterogeneous temporal dynamics and low linear correlations, making accurate prediction and interpretation difficult when analyzed on a single-compound basis. This study investigates whether clustering can serve not only as an exploratory tool but as an essential preprocessing step to enhance machine-learning performance in multi-odor prediction systems. A total of 22 designated odorants were continuously monitored, and their pairwise dependencies were evaluated using Pearson correlation and mutual information. Data-driven clustering was performed through K-means, hierarchical linkage, and principal-component–based latent grouping, and the resulting structures were quantitatively compared with functional-group-based chemical classifications using the consistency ratio and Jaccard similarity index. Cluster validity was further examined using the Silhouette Coefficient, Davies–Bouldin Index, and Calinski–Harabasz Index. The predictive contribution of clustering was verified by training XGBoost regression models on both raw and cluster-structured datasets. The clustered dataset yielded higher predictive accuracy, with increased R2 and reduced MAE and RMSE across most odorants. SHAP analysis further confirmed that clustering improved model interpretability by stabilizing feature contributions and reducing noise-driven importance shifts. The findings demonstrate that clustering is not a supplementary diagnostic tool, but a prerequisite for building reliable, high-performance machine-learning models in complex odor systems. This integrative framework offers a methodological foundation for multi-odor forecasting, source tracking, and next-generation odor management platforms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Odour (2nd Edition))
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22 pages, 3870 KB  
Article
Occupational and Environmental BTEX Exposure: A Bibliometric Analysis Using Scientific Mapping
by Ahmet Gökcan, Hacer Handan Demir, Mükerrem Ozdemir, Hüdanur Yasa, Hakan Çelikten and Göksel Demir
Atmosphere 2025, 16(12), 1353; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos16121353 - 29 Nov 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1834
Abstract
BTEX compounds (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene isomers) are aromatic hydrocarbons widely used in various industries. Due to their volatility, they become persistent pollutants in workplace air, posing serious risks to worker health. The aim of this study is to systematically map academic [...] Read more.
BTEX compounds (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene isomers) are aromatic hydrocarbons widely used in various industries. Due to their volatility, they become persistent pollutants in workplace air, posing serious risks to worker health. The aim of this study is to systematically map academic publications on BTEX exposure and health effects and to evaluate the impact of exposure levels in industrial settings on worker health. Publications obtained from the Web of Science database between 2010 and 2025 were bibliometrically analyzed in terms of productivity, collaboration networks, thematic trends, and analysis methods. In addition, the sources of BTEX compound dispersion, analysis methods, and industrial hazard classifications were evaluated through content analysis. According to the findings, Iran and China stood out as the most active countries, with publication intensity peaking in 2023. BTEX exposure was observed to be particularly high in the petrochemical sector. However, there is a lack of studies that systematically address the direct effects on worker health. This study aims to contribute to the more effective management of BTEX-related exposure risks by providing decision-makers with scientifically based and interpretable analyses. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Odour (2nd Edition))
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22 pages, 6821 KB  
Article
Dispersion Modeling of Odor Emissions from Area Sources in a Municipal Wastewater Treatment Plant
by Cristian Constantin, Cristina Modrogan, Annette Madelene Dancila, Georgeta Olguta Gavrila, Simona Mariana Calinescu, Alexandru Cirstea, Valeriu Danciulescu, Gheorghita Tanase and Gabriela Geanina Vasile
Atmosphere 2025, 16(5), 577; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos16050577 - 12 May 2025
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3600
Abstract
Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) generate significant emissions of gaseous substances, such as H2S, NH3, and VOCs, which cause discomfort and pose health risks to residents in surrounding areas. The objective of this study was to estimate pollutant concentrations under [...] Read more.
Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) generate significant emissions of gaseous substances, such as H2S, NH3, and VOCs, which cause discomfort and pose health risks to residents in surrounding areas. The objective of this study was to estimate pollutant concentrations under various scenarios through a mathematical modeling of the pollutant dispersion in the surrounding air using the AERMOD View software platform, version 11.2.0. In this study, four mathematical models with two different scenarios were conducted to illustrate the odor concentrations both on site and in nearby areas under the most unfavorable weather conditions. The “1st Highest Values” and “98th Percentile” metrics were used to represent the peak concentrations and to exclude the 2% of conditions with the worst-case dispersion, respectively. In the first scenario, under normal operating conditions with all treatment equipment functioning, the maximum on-site odor concentration was estimated at 36.8 ouE/m3 using the 1st highest value function, and it was 20.4 ouE/m3 using the 98th percentile function. The second scenario considered all emission sources, with the grease collection system of the de-sanding/grease separation Unit Line 1 and the sludge collection system of the primary settling decanter (Unit 4) out of service. In this case, the maximum on-site odor concentration reached 749 ouE/m3 over 98% of a one-year period and 956.5 ouE/m3 using the 1st highest value function. These findings underscore the necessity for ongoing monitoring, strict adherence to environmental regulations, and stakeholder engagement to improve mitigation techniques and foster community trust in environmental management. Regular inspections are essential to ensure that all equipment operates within normal parameters, supporting both regulatory compliance and improved operational efficiency, including the control of odor emissions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Odour (2nd Edition))
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25 pages, 5612 KB  
Article
Innovative Approaches to Industrial Odour Monitoring: From Chemical Analysis to Predictive Models
by Claudia Franchina, Amedeo Manuel Cefalì, Martina Gianotti, Alessandro Frugis, Corrado Corradi, Giulio De Prosperis, Dario Ronzio, Luca Ferrero, Ezio Bolzacchini and Domenico Cipriano
Atmosphere 2024, 15(12), 1401; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos15121401 - 21 Nov 2024
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2451
Abstract
This study evaluated the reliability of an electronic nose in monitoring odour concentration near a wastewater treatment plant and examined the correlation between four sensor readings and odour intensity. The electronic nose chemical sensors are related to the concentration of the following chemical [...] Read more.
This study evaluated the reliability of an electronic nose in monitoring odour concentration near a wastewater treatment plant and examined the correlation between four sensor readings and odour intensity. The electronic nose chemical sensors are related to the concentration of the following chemical species: two values for the concentration of VOCs recorded via the PID sensor (VPID) and the EC sensor (VEC), and concentrations of sulfuric acid (VH2S) and benzene (VC6H6). Using Random Forest and least squares regression analysis, the study identifies VH2S and VC6H6 as key contributors to odour concentration (CcOD). Three Random Forest models (RF0, RF1, RF2), with different characteristics for splitting between the test set and the training set, were tested, with RF1 showing superior predictive performance due to its training approach. All models highlighted VH2S and VC6H6 as significant predictors, while VPID and VEC had less influence. A significant correlation between odour concentration and specific chemical sensor readings was found, particularly for VH2S and VC6H6. However, predicting odour concentrations below 1000 ouE/m3 proved challenging. Linear regression further confirmed the importance of VH2S and VC6H6, with a moderate R-squared value of 0.70, explaining 70% of the variability in odour concentration. The study demonstrated the effectiveness of combining Random Forest and least squares regression for robust and interpretable results. Future research should focus on expanding the dataset and incorporating additional variables to enhance model accuracy. The findings underscore the necessity of specific sensor training and standardised procedures for accurate odour monitoring and characterisation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Odour (2nd Edition))
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12 pages, 5739 KB  
Article
Characteristics of Volatile Organic Compounds Emissions and Odor Impact in the Pharmaceutical Industry
by Hongchao Zhao, Ying Cheng, Yanling Liu, Xiuyan Wang, Yuyan Wang, Shuai Wang and Taosheng Jin
Atmosphere 2024, 15(11), 1338; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos15111338 - 7 Nov 2024
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3301
Abstract
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are not only essential precursors for the formation of ozone and PM2.5, but also hazardous to human health and responsible for unpleasant odors. The pharmaceutical industry has become an important industrial source of VOCs due to China’s [...] Read more.
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are not only essential precursors for the formation of ozone and PM2.5, but also hazardous to human health and responsible for unpleasant odors. The pharmaceutical industry has become an important industrial source of VOCs due to China’s large emissions and complex emission chains. In total, 245 VOCs samples were collected and analyzed from 11 typical pharmaceutical companies in Zibo City of the North China Plain, in order to investigate the VOCs emission characteristics and odor impacts. The emission factor for the pharmaceutical industry was 7.97 ± 8.21 g/kg pharmaceuticals, while the main emission links were chimney emissions, equipment sealing leakage, and so on. Finally, considering both purifying efficiency and economic benefits, the multistage absorption (AB) method is most effective for VOCs concentrations below 100 mg/m3, while UV photo-oxygenation combined with adsorption (UVA) is more suitable for concentrations below 300 mg/m3. The Regenerative Thermal Oxidizer (RTO), Catalytic Oxidizer (CO), and Condensation + Adsorption (CA) technologies demonstrated greater stability and efficiency, particularly in the treatment of complex organic pollutants, highlighting their advantages in both VOCs and odor removal at higher concentrations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Odour (2nd Edition))
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Review

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41 pages, 3752 KB  
Review
State-of-the-Art in Environmental Odor Monitoring: A Comprehensive Review of Commercially Available Technologies
by Dugheri Stefano, Cappelli Giovanni, Santillo Michele, Ilaria Rapi, Ettore Guerriero, Marina Cerasa, Riccardo Gori, Fabio Cioni, Domenico Cipriano, Ivana Stanimirova, Chiara Vita, Niccolò Fanfani, Antonio Baldassarre and Nicola Mucci
Atmosphere 2026, 17(9), 823; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos17090823 - 26 Aug 2026
Viewed by 498
Abstract
This review provides a critical, balanced synthesis of current odor assessment and prediction methodologies, alongside their inherent uncertainties, tailored for engineers, environmental scientists, and regulatory bodies. Crucially, choosing and designing sampling strategies must be strictly based on expected concentrations and required exposure times. [...] Read more.
This review provides a critical, balanced synthesis of current odor assessment and prediction methodologies, alongside their inherent uncertainties, tailored for engineers, environmental scientists, and regulatory bodies. Crucially, choosing and designing sampling strategies must be strictly based on expected concentrations and required exposure times. For field characterization, real-time monitoring tools offer a strong way to instantly measure volatile and very volatile organic compounds. These devices give detailed concentration data through built-in logging systems. Deploying these analytical techniques ultimately allows for continuous tracking of changes over time. This offers the time resolution needed to identify and analyze brief exposure peaks and their main causes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Environmental Odour (2nd Edition))
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