Work

Surface Moisture Control for Sustainable Manure Management: Reducing Ammonia Emissions and Preserving Nutrients

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Researchers increasingly agree that livestock farming is the leading cause of air pollution with ammonia (NH3) gas. The existing research suggests that 30–80% of nitrogen is lost from slurry and liquid manure in the gaseous form of ammonia. Most studies have focused on environmental factors influencing ammonia volatilization and manure composition but not on controlling the moisture level on the surface of the excreta. Applying the principles of convective mass exchange, this study was undertaken to compare different types of organic covers that mitigate NH3 emissions and offer recommendations on how to properly apply organic covers on the surface of manure. Data was obtained from research in laboratory conditions comparing well-known coatings (chopped straw) with less commonly used organic materials (peat) or waste generated in other industries (sawdust, hemp chaff). This research demonstrated that applying bio-coatings can reduce ammonia (NH3) emissions at coating thicknesses of ≥5 cm for sawdust, ≥3 cm for peat, ≥10 cm for hemp chaff, and 8–12 cm for straw. These reductions are linked to the ability of the coatings to lower manure surface moisture evaporation, a key driver of ammonia volatilization, highlighting the role of surface moisture control in emission mitigation.

Source: Sustainability

DOI: 10.3390/su17146617

Authors: Ieva Knoknerienė, Rolandas Bleizgys, Vilma Naujokienė

Institution: Vytautas Magnus University

Language: English

Topic: Odor and Emission Control Technologies

Subfield: Process Chemistry and Technology

Field: Chemical Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Climate action, Responsible consumption and production, Zero hunger

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,896