What is an odor? At its simplest definition, an odor is a gas that people perceive or notice.

Odors originate from many different sources, and have different intensities and complexities. Each type requires different approaches and different combinations of approaches. Some of the most commonly used odor control methods are outlined below.

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Adsorption

This involves using a solid to pick up or capture and hold a gas. Adsorption alone doesn't remove source of the odors materials, but simply removes the odor-causing molecules from the air so we don't smell them. The most common adsorption material is activated carbon. Most restoration-grade air scrubbers have the option of including an activated carbon filter as one of the filter elements.

Neutralization

Using a chemical to produce a chemical change to the source of the odor. Baking soda, for example, can neutralize the odor of spilled battery acid.

Oxidation

Slow chemical reaction in a liquid form or gaseous state. It's a chemical reaction in which the odor-causing molecule is altered or even destroyed. Ozone generators use this principal to convert odor compounds into odorless compounds. Liquid oxidizers are also available.

Antimicrobials

Chemical agents kill or inhibit the growth of odor causing microorganisms.

Bio-enzymatic digestion

This technology employs beneficial bacterial action to quickly and thoroughly destroy a wide variety of odor-causing molecules. This approach is used predominately for pet odor removal.

Counteraction

Using multiple odor treatment steps to eliminate a complex odor.

The odor control method or methods you choose depends on the complexity of the odor and whether or not you can get to the source of an odor. You can boost your odor control skills by taking a professional odor control course from a reputable provider.  

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Mike Kerner has been senior scientist with Legend Brands since 2009. He has 30 years of experience related to cleaning and restoration chemistry. Kerner provides technical support for chemical products in the various Legend Brands divisions including Dri-Eaz, ProRestore and Sapphire Scientific. He recently started providing technical support for Chemspec, a Legend Brands partner company.