Characterization and Energy Potential of Broiler Manure Reared under Different Flooring Materials

Abstract

Broiler deep litter is composed of cellulose, manure, feathers, and feed, and after reuse through several flocks, may be used as a fertilizer. Alternative litter materials such as plastic flooring have been researched but little is known about the characteristics of the waste produced. We analyzed the properties of broiler manure from different flooring systems and assessed its potential for biodigestion. Broiler chicks (1500 one-day-old) were reared using five flooring materials: wood shavings (WS); plastic floor (PP); 50% shavings + 50% plastic floor (PP + WS); plastic floor with antimicrobial additive (PPA); and 50% shavings + 50% plastic floor with an antimicrobial additive (PPA + WS). Waste collection was done at 14, 28, and 42 days of growth. The total residue (kg) produced was quantified on day 42. The total solids (TS), volatile solids (VS), neutral detergent fiber (NDF), acid detergent fiber (ADF), nitrogen (N), and pH were analyzed at 14, 28, and 42 days of growth, using the residue coefficient (RC) on the 42nd day. The contents of ST, SV, NDF, ADF, C, and N were determined for anaerobic digestion. The concentrations of O2, CO2, and CH4 produced by anaerobic digestion were analyzed. The flooring material did not affect the volatile solids’ contents. The lowest NDF and ADF were found in plastic floor residues. The pH of the manure linearly increased over time as the birds grew. The presence of wood shavings in the manure was decisive for the production of biogas. The treatments with the plastic floor without shavings obtained the highest N content with less residue. Plastic flooring with wood shaving is not recommended as it increases waste generation. The use of plastic flooring reduced the amounts of waste generated and promote a greater yield of biogas with the anaerobic digestion of excreta.