Abstract
This study aims at investigating maturity levels in manure from laying hens in order to encourage its agronomic re-utilization. In fact the use of unstable/insufficiently mature manure could potentially damage both soils and crops. Effective, easy to reproduce methods are needed in order to assess bio-stabilisation and maturity levels, particularly for biomass that has not undergone conventional composting. This study compares samples of caged laying hen manure, an organic matter rich in nutrients, N and P and devoid of litter or bulking agents, at different levels of maturation. Both chemical (dry matter, ashes, carbon and its fractioning, total and ammoniacal nitrogen) and physical methods, such as thermogravimetry, were used to characterize them. Such physical methods do introduce any sample modification and shorten the analysis time. From a statistical point of view, chemical methods are effective only in distinguishing among different drying methods connected with manure management systems. Only thermogravimetric analysis can identify mature samples by means of total mass loss in the range RT- 900°C, mass loss in the range 350-425°C and energy release at 500°C. In addition, thermogravimetric profiles could be used to define a fingerprint for this kind of biomass.
Highlights
Re-utilization of animal and organic waste by manufacturing bio-fertilizer or spreading manure on soils requires the development of appropriate a high phosphate content, due to specific feed supplements added to enhance egg production[4,6]
All these systems fall within the Best Available Techniques (BAT) for intensive poultry rearing in Mediterranean countries[17]
PM1 was collected from a unit equipped with vertical tiered cages, a manure belt and manure drying system (MDS) outside the housing, manure removed from housing after 24-36 h and dried in the subsequent 72 h in a tunnel[18]; in this case the tunnel is located outside the facility and not over the cages
Summary
Re-utilization of animal and organic waste by manufacturing bio-fertilizer or spreading manure on soils requires the development of appropriate a high phosphate content, due to specific feed supplements (calcium phosphate or carbonate) added to enhance egg production[4,6]. With 450 millions hens in Europe[7] and a 4,000,000 DM ton potentiality[4], LHM could be an important source of organic carbon to techniques for final characterization of organic fertilize Southern European soils, which are known to fertilizers. Such techniques would allow assessing their be suffering organic matter depletion[8]. The application of unstable organic materials on soil could damage both crops and the soil order to be used safely, LHM requires biostabilisation, maturing and hygienization, as recommended by EU standards[9] as well
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
