Assessment of ammonia distribution in a livestock farm using CFD simulations

Abstract

Livestock farming is a significant source of ammonia emissions, which can have adverse effects on human health and the environment. Understanding the distribution and dispersion of ammonia within a livestock farm is crucial for developing effective mitigation strategies. In this study, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations were employed to assess the spatial distribution of ammonia within a representative livestock farm. A detailed 3D model of the farm was created, incorporating the structural layout and ventilation systems. The CFD simulations were conducted using an approach validated by several other researcher groups, considering factors such as ammonia release rate, temperature, and ventilation rates. The results of the CFD simulations provided valuable insights into the distribution patterns of ammonia within the farm. The concentration contours revealed areas of high ammonia concentration, highlighting potential hotspots and vulnerable locations. To investigate the effect of air velocity and temperature on ammonia convection and to save electricity cost, the duty cycle was determined using transient analysis. We have studied the costs and benefits of agricultural ammonia emission abatement options for compliance with air quality regulations. The simulations allowed for the evaluation of different ventilation rates to mitigate ammonia concentration. The findings contribute to the understanding of ammonia emission sources and provide valuable guidance for the design and optimization of livestock farming systems, enabling the development of sustainable practices that mitigate the environmental impact of ammonia emissions.