The Sampling and Gas Chromato-graphic Analysis of Fatty Acids from Landfill Sites

Abstract

A gas chromatographic technique has been developed and applied to the qualitative and quantitative analysis of fatty acids in the interstitial gases of landfill sites. Acetic, propionic. and butyric acids were those shown to be present in the highest concentrations. The fatty acid concentrations were higher at a site where landfill had been completed two years ago than at a site where operations had finished twenty-five years ago. The concentrations of fatty acids measured were well above the odour thresholds. These compounds may be responsible for the unpleasant smells frequently associated with landfill gases.