Odour emissions from poultry litter – A review litter properties, odour formation and odorant emissions from porous materials. (15th July 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Dunlop, Mark W.; Blackall, Patrick J.; Stuetz, Richard M.
• Is Part Of: Journal of environmental management. Volume 177(2016)
• Page Start: 306
• Page End: 319
• Publication Date: 2016-07-15
• Subjects: Broiler -- Odorants -- Volatile organic compounds (VOCs); Environmental policy -- Periodicals; Environmental management -- Periodicals; Environment -- Periodicals; Ecology -- Periodicals; 363.705
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2016.04.009
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0301-4797

Abstract

Abstract: Odour emissions from meat chicken sheds can at times cause odour impacts on surrounding communities. Litter is seen as the primary source of this odour. Formation and emission of odour from meat chicken litter during the grow-out period are influenced by various factors such as litter conditions, the environment, microbial activity, properties of the odorous gases and management practices. Odour emissions vary spatially and temporally. This variability has made it challenging to understand how specific litter conditions contribute to odour emissions from the litter and production sheds. Existing knowledge on odorants, odour formation mechanisms and emission processes that contribute to odour emissions from litter are reviewed. Litter moisture content and water thermodynamics (i.e. water activity, A w ) are also examined as factors that contribute to microbial odour formation, physical litter conditions and the exchange of individual odorant gases at the air-water interface. Substantial opportunities exist for future research on litter conditions and litter formation mechanisms and how these contribute to odour emissions. Closing this knowledge gap will improve management strategies that intercept and interfere with odour formation and emission processes leading to an overall reduction in the potential to cause community impacts. Graphical abstract: Highlights: Many factors affect the formation and emission of odour from poultry litter. Litter porosity, microbiota, ventilation and moisture dynamics affect odour. Litter changes spatially and temporally, with short and long-term effects on odour. Theories on gas exchange between liquids, porous materials and air are applicable. Litter management strategies to reduce odour emissions need further research.