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Alum Sludge and Zeolite as Components of Broiler Litter

Department of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Box 340361, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634-0361; Phone: (864) 656-4023; FAX: (864) 656-1033

Correspondence: D. V. Maurice, E-mail:dmrc{at}clemson.edu

This study investigated whether alum sludge, a coproduct of drinking water purification, and natural zeolites could be used as components of broiler litter. The two alternatives were used singly and in combination to constitute a portion of the litter. Alum sludge at 20% and natural zeolite at 10% replaced wood shavings. Commercial broiler chickens were grown on the different litter combinations from day-old to market age. The response criteria examined included growth, feed conversion, livability, leg score, tibial dyschondroplasia score, and litter characteristics. Mortality and morbidity were negligible and 16 beetle traps yielded two beetles from the pen. A statistically significant effect due to litter was not detected in body weight, feed conversion, or leg scores at 3 and 6 wk of age. Litter treatments did not influence litter characteristics such as ammonia, pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and copper. The results showed that there were no detrimental effects associated with using alum sludge and/or natural zeolites as components to reduce the amount of wood shavings needed for litter.

Key Words: Alum sludge • broilers • copper • litter • nitrogen • phosphorus • zeolite

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