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Nitrogen availability in composted poultry litter using natural amendments.
1Department of Environmental Engineering, Ondokuz Mayis University, Samsun, Turkey. gturan@omu.edu.tr
Summary
Adding natural materials like zeolite to poultry litter compost significantly reduces nitrogen loss. Natural zeolite proved most effective, retaining 84% of nitrogen during the 100-day composting process.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Science
- Environmental Science
- Soil Science
Background:
- Poultry litter compost is a nutrient-rich fertilizer.
- Nitrogen (N) loss via ammonia (NH3) volatilization is a major limitation of its land application.
- Effective nitrogen management in compost is crucial for agricultural sustainability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of natural materials on nitrogen availability during poultry litter composting.
- To quantify NH3 volatilization and nitrogen retention with different amendments.
- To identify the most effective natural material for reducing nitrogen loss.
Main Methods:
- Composting poultry litter for 100 days in five in-vessel simulators.
- Incorporating natural materials (natural zeolite, expanded perlite, pumice, expanded vermiculite) at a 1:10 volumetric ratio.
- Monitoring nitrogen content and NH3 volatilization in control and amended composts.
Main Results:
- All tested natural materials significantly reduced NH3 volatilization compared to the control.
- Natural zeolite was the most effective amendment, with only 16% total N loss.
- Nitrogen losses were 72% (control), 53% (perlite), 42% (vermiculite), and 26% (pumice).
Conclusions:
- Natural materials can substantially mitigate nitrogen loss during poultry litter composting.
- Natural zeolite is a highly effective amendment for enhancing nitrogen retention in compost.
- Utilizing natural zeolite in poultry litter composting can improve fertilizer efficiency and reduce environmental impact.
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