Quicklime may be used to raise the pH of manure solids thus initiating a stabilizing effect of killing pathogens, reducing vector attraction, and controlling odors. A range of 5% to 15% quicklime doses were tested on separated manure solids. The largest dose (15%) rendered higher stabilization temperatures, a higher initial pH increase during mixing, and lower residual moisture in the stabilized product for the highest doses. Solids treated with doses of 10 and 15% quicklime can produce a stabilized product which meets the same requirements as Class A biosolid defined in Part 503 of the CFR 40. Manure treated with 10% quicklime lost approximately 80% of the original ammonia content over a period of 7 days through volatilization, an additional 10% was liberated over the next 21 days.
Contribute to Pork Research
Discover how you can help improve the pork industry by checking out research RFPs or sharing your own ideas. If you have a research idea, we want to know! Here’s your chance to make a difference.