By modelling the production and transmission of ammonia in a swine building, we will be better equipped to investigate methods to reduce ammonia concentration inside the buildings. Ammonia emission from slurry was measured and compared to two sets of model calculations to determine which model is more suitable for use in an overall room model. Both models simulated the fluctuation in emissions relatively well, but neither model sufficiently predicted the concentration levels. Slurry pH was deemed the most significant input parameter in the model calculations.

Implications

The ammonia emission from the slurry pit is a major contributor to the ammonia concentration in a pig-housing unit and the ammonia emission to the environment. By validating model equations to simulate ammonia emission from slurry, we are better able to simulate the overall ammonia emission from a pig building.