Manure solids separation by filtration with biomaterials

Abstract

The solid-liquid separation is usually critical part in the swine manure handling process, in terms of its potential benefits in waste utilization and environmental improvement. However, most of the existing separation techniques, such as mechanical separation or settling basin, are not ideal due to relatively low efficiency or high cost. This study was designed to provide an efficient but cost-effective separation method for swine manure handling business. Several readily available biomaterials (oat straw, soybean stubble, corn stover, and corncobs) were tested in the laboratory for solids removal effectiveness from liquid swine manure. Some of the materials, including oat straw, corn stover, and soybean stubble, achieved removal efficiencies as great as mechanical separators currently available. Plugging of the filter materials was examined as well.