Adsorption properties of natural zeolite and bentonite in pig slurry from the microbiological point of view
The research paper investigates the effects of natural zeolite and bentonite on the physical-chemical and microbiological characteristics of pig slurry. The study was conducted over a period of 28 days, during which pig slurry was treated with either zeolite or bentonite. The results indicated a significant reduction in the counts of psychrophilic and mesophilic microorganisms, with decreases of three orders of magnitude compared to the control group. Specifically, the removal efficiencies for psychrophilic and mesophilic microorganisms were found to be 98.9% and 100%, respectively.
Furthermore, the study reported that coliform microorganisms were completely eliminated after 14 days of treatment with both zeolite and bentonite. Notably, no fecal coliforms were detected in the bentonite-treated slurry after just 7 days, while zeolite-treated slurry showed no fecal coliforms after 14 days. In addition to microbial reduction, the experiment also observed a decrease in several chemical parameters, including ammonium nitrogen (N-NH4+), total nitrogen (Nt), total phosphorus (Pt), and chemical oxygen demand (COD), indicating an overall improvement in the quality of the pig slurry.
This research paper is significant in the field of environmental science and agricultural waste management, particularly in the context of swine production. The findings contribute to ongoing discussions about effective methods for treating livestock waste, which is crucial for reducing environmental pollution and improving waste management practices. By demonstrating the efficacy of natural zeolite and bentonite in reducing harmful microorganisms and improving chemical parameters in pig slurry, the study offers practical insights for farmers and agricultural professionals seeking sustainable solutions. The research also highlights the potential of using natural adsorbents in waste treatment, which can lead to better environmental outcomes and promote the use of eco-friendly materials in agricultural practices.
