< Manure Phoshorus Management Alternative Analysis. Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering Newsletter, March / April, 2007


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Design Team (left to right): Samuel Szaroletta, Michael Pompliano, Theodore VanAken

Manure Phoshorus Management Alternative Analysis: Excessive phosphorus is a leading contributor to eutrophication of environmental systems in Michigan and agricultural fertilizing is a major source. High phosphorus concentrations in dairy manure limit land application amounts, which increases transportation costs. Managing phosphorus levels in dairy manure by concentrating it into the solid fraction provides more flexibility and cost savings because the resulting phosphorus-free liquid fraction is available for irrigation or recycling close to the production source.
The team designed, constructed, and operated a prototype phosphorus removal contactor that incorporated nanotechnology-enhanced iron-coated ceramic media to surface precipitate phosphorus from the liquid fraction. Influent and effluent samples were analyzed to test the media effectiveness and lifespan. A scale-up model of the prototype phosphorus removal contactor was compared to the existing coagulation/flocculation phosphorus treatment system at Green Meadow Farms in Elsie, Michigan. A recommendation for the most cost-effective management method was developed based on experimental results and economic comparison.

Industry Advisors: Jim Wallace,
Biosystems Engineering Doctoral Candidate

Sponsors: Rich Helferich, MetaMateria Partners, Columbus, OH
Darcy Dorr, Green Meadow Farms, Elsie, MI

This article was written for publication in the Senior Design Showcase Program, April 17, 2007. Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering Newsletter, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI


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