Ammonia Point Sensor for Intensive Livestock Operations
USDA Phase I Contract 2006-33610-16851
The program is developing a rapid, reversible inexpensive monitoring technology for ammonia in intensive livestock operations (ILOs). This work will result in a cost competitive, simple monitoring system for ammonia levels which can be applied at multiple fixed points within an ILO structure or as a personal monitor worn by workers. The ability to rapidly follow changing ammonia levels in real-time will help with air quality improvement measures and will protect the health and productivity of farm workers and animals.
Efficient, cost-effective systems for continuous sensing of dangerous, noxious gases such as ammonia in ILOs will provide information for regulation of ventilation and protection of animal and worker health. Resulting improvements in productivity will reduce costs and increase farm profitability. We anticipate initial commercial applications in indoor air quality monitoring for swine and poultry operations, where ammonia levels may routinely exceed acceptable values.