New innovative e-Nose system improves air monitoring in Muuga Harbour

E-Noses detect anomalies in air composition caused by the presence of reactive trace gases in the environment. Such anomalies may be caused by gaseous compounds emitted from chemicals being produced, stored or handled in Muuga Harbour. They may also be caused by the passing of gas plumes emitted by neighbouring companies. If the e-Nose network is sufficiently dense and the e-Noses are mounted at appropriate locations, the e-Nose can act as an early warning system for the oil companies. If the oil companies act appropriately, they will be able to reduce the risk of odour nuisance.

Port of Tallinn, the oil companies and the Ministry of Environmental Affairs share a common belief that reduction of malodorous emissions is a key priority. The e-Nose data is displayed on a dedicated web-based tool – a graphical user interface that displays the actual status of the e-Nose by means of a coloured ball on the GIS coordinates of each e-Nose. The colour of the ball represents the actual gas composition that is detected by the e-Nose. Oil companies with online e-Noses and access to e-Noses in the Environmental Inspectorate area can identify if their operations lead to an external nuisance.

At present, an e-Nose network has been installed at the liquid bulk cluster of the Muuga Harbour and in nearby communities. The network can be easily adapted by relocating, increasing or decreasing the number of e-Noses.

The total investment in the e-Nose project was 120 thousand euros, and it was co-financed 50% by the Environmental Investment Centre and the other 50% by Port of Tallinn, Vopak E.O.S., Vesta Terminal Tallinn and Oiltanking Tallinn.