This research investigated the chemodynamics of the underdrains found at swine- raising facilities. The maintenance of aerobic conditions and introduction of aerobic bacteria to expedite the treatment process and control odor formation were investigated. A pilot-scale system that mimicked an industrial swine-raising facility was used in this study. Aeration and aeration with bacterial seed additions were evaluated against a standard pit recharge system, which served as the control. The effectiveness was measured using water quality testing, odor assessments by a human sensory panel, and air phase measurements of hydrogen sulfide and ammonia. The results indicated that both aeration and aeration with seeding under low loading condition were effective in reducing BOD, COD, volatile acids, and phenol concentration as well as overall odor intensity as compared to the control; however, neither was effective in reducing the ammonia, phosphate, or total solids concentrations. At mid and high loadings, little benefit was observed.

Thesis (M.S.)--Oregon State University, 2005. / Printout. Includes bibliographical references (leaves 61-69). Also available on the World Wide Web.

Zeolite (77% clinoptilolite) was supplemented in grower hog rations at a rate of 2 or 5%. The growth performance (weight gain, daily consumption and feed conversion) and air quality were compared against a control group's where zeolite was replaced by fine sand. A significant reduction in the feed/gain ratio and daily consumption was observed when 2% zeolite was fed to pigs weighing less than 40 kg. The same results were obtained when 5% zeolite was fed to pigs weighing more thoun 50 kg. No significant difference in air quality (CO 2, NH3, H2S and temperature) was noticed between the control and the zeolite room even if the NH3, level fell from 12.5 to 8.7 ppm when the zeolite level was increased from 2 to 5%. A slight reduction of odor intensity was observed in the zeolite room. In parallel with this research, a dynamic automated olfactometer for six lists was conceived and built according to American and European guidelines. This instrument measures agricultural odors with precision and speed.

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