Multi‑sensor system for measuring gases
Researchers at STC research centre have installed a sensor system at the Östrand factory to monitor emissions of odorous gases. The long-term goal is to be able to predict the emissions at an earlier stage with the help of advanced technology and AI and create a better knowledge of the underlying causes.
The sulphate pulp industry is historically known for creating foul-smelling emissions. Major development efforts have been carried out over the years and reduced the impact on the surrounding society. Hydrogen sulphide and methyl mercaptan are two gases that are formed and strongly contribute to this smell. In addition to contributing to the smell, hydrogen sulphide is a health hazard and an explosive gas that can be life-threatening in high concentrations. For the surrounding environment, it is therefore important to monitor and limit emissions.
The primary purpose of the multi-sensor system is not to measure high levels of these gases, but rather lower concentrations, as they too can contribute to the spread of odors. Emissions from the factory can sometimes occur during process disturbances, and it is these minor emissions that the system is intended to detect and collect data on.
The system will collect data on the gas emissions, which will be used to develop an AI model to enable early prediction of gas emissions.
The system that has been installed at the Östrand factory consists of two main sets of sensors. The first includes four electrochemical sensors and the second includes four nano-tube based sensors with 16 channels each. This set-up together with 4G communication enables real-time data collection and monitoring. The sensor has been mounted near the chimney of the chip impregnation plant, known as "ImpBin".