HOME HELP FEEDBACK SUBSCRIPTIONS ARCHIVE SEARCH TABLE OF CONTENTS		QUICK SEARCH:   [advanced] Author: Keyword(s): Year:  Vol:  Page:

This Article Full Text Full Text (PDF) Alert me when this article is cited Alert me if a correction is posted Services Similar articles in this journal Similar articles in Web of Science Alert me to new issues of the journal Download to citation manager Citing Articles Citing Articles via Google Scholar Google Scholar Articles by Miles, D. M. Search for Related Content PubMed Articles by Miles, D. M.

Vertical Stratification of Ammonia in a Broiler House¹

USDA-ARS, Genetics and Precision Agriculture Research Unit, 810 Hwy 12 East, MS State, MS 39762

² Corresponding author: dana.miles{at}ars.usda.gov

The broiler industry is not immune to the problematic nature of NH₃ production in animal rearing facilities. Though the headlines of today focus on environmental impact considerations, the detrimental effects of the house air quality on farmers and birds remain considerable for industry viability. This research investigated the vertical stratification of in-house NH₃ combined with sampling position down the center of the house and with different NH₃ analysis technologies. The results indicated that reuse of litter and house ventilation correlate to trends in NH₃ concentration at particular measurement heights. When tunnel ventilation was primary, NH₃ concentrations decreased vertically with increasing distance from the litter surface. However, with lower outside temperatures, little ventilation, and a stagnant house atmosphere, no concentration gradient was evident. The work also demonstrated significant variability among professionally calibrated instruments and traditionally used pull tubes. Characterization of interior air quality of broiler houses should consider sampling height to effectively address bird exposure.

Key Words: ammonia • broiler • litter • house management

¹ Mention of trade names or commercial products in this article is solely for the purpose of providing specific information and does not imply recommendation or endorsement by the USDA.