Limitations of GC-QTOF-MS Technique in Identification of Odorous Compounds from Wastewater: The Application of GC-IMS as Supplement for Odor Profiling

Odorous emissions from wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) cause negative impacts on the surrounding areas and possible health risks nearby residents. However, efficient reliable identification of WWTPs’ odorants is still challenging. In this study, odorous volatile organic compounds (VOCs) domestic at different processing units were profiled identified using gas chromatography-ion mobility spectrometry (GC-IMS) chromatography quadrupole-time-of-flight mass (GC-QTOF-MS). The GC-QTOF-MS results confirmed odor contribution sulfur in before primary sedimentation ruled out significance most hydrocarbons odor. problems analysis discussed. GC-IMS was developed for visualized composition characteristics odorants. Varied detected by GC-IMS, mainly oxygen-containing VOCs including alcohols, fatty acids, aldehydes ketones with low threshold values. fingerprint plot IMS spectra showed variation VOCs’ composition, indicating changes quality during process. technique may provide an profiling method inlet water performance process WWTPs.