The Effects of Alum Application To Different Bedding Materials on Litter Characteristics

Abstract

The effects of alum (A12(SO4)3•14H2O) amendment to different bedding materials (straw and sawdust) on litter properties was evaluated. The research was carried out in 2 parts of poultry house as control and treatment groups. Each part have 4 environmentaly controlled chambers. The study was conducted for 6 weeks. Litter sampels collected from poultry house at the end of study. Litter pH for the alum treated litters is lower than the control litters. The sawdust and the alum treated-sawdust litter increased content of dry matter relative to straw and the alum treared-straw litters. The alum treated-sawdust litter was higher N contents than the sawdust litter. The P contents of the alum treated sawdust was higher than the other groups. Mean total Ca, Mg andK concentrations in the straw litter were significantly affected by the alum amendment. We also, found lower total Fe and Mn concentrations in the alum treated-straw litters than in the straw litters and there were no statistical differences in total Fe and Mn between the sawdust and the alum treated sawdust. There were no statistical differences in total Zn and Cu among the litter groups. Mean total Zn and Cu concentrations in the litter were not significantly affected by the alum amendments or bedding materials. Dry matter content, pH and ammonia concentration can affect ammonia emission in poultry house. © Medwell Journals, 2009.