Document Type
Thesis - University Access Only
Award Date
2009
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department / School
Agricultural Engineering
Abstract
Odor emitted from swine facilities can be a nuisance to neighbors. Shelterbelts can be one method used to disperse odor. In this research a hog confinement facility was used to test dispersion characteristics of a shelterbelt. Initial readings of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) were taken without trees at the site. A row of 4.5 m tall ash and honey locust trees were then planted and concentrations were recorded. This procedure was repeated for two additional rows of trees ( row two consisted of coniferous trees and row three consisted of deciduous trees). Sampling equipment was placed directly north of the shelterbelt and up to a half mile away to record H2S concentrations. Data was recorded for approximately four months. The results showed that porosity of a shelterbelt inherently affects the rate of dispersion. Low porosity of the shelterbelt slows horizontal wind speeds and causes turbulence. Results of a low porosity are most notable closest to the barrier as shown in the concentration values of H2S immediately beyond the shelterbelt. Average concentrations decreased by 81 % directly beyond the shelterbelt between the 3rd row and no trees for the EF stability class at 55 meter (m) horizontal distance and 5.5 m vertical height. Further away from the shelterbelt at that same vertical height but a horizontal distance of 246 m resulted in a 50% decrease in concentration between no trees and three rows of trees. At distances further from the shelterbelt (510 and 805 m) the percent H2S concentration reduction was 16%. These results indicate that the greater the distance from the shelterbelt the less effect the shelterbelt has on H2S reduction. Stability class also played a major role in the dispersion of the plume over a short distance, likely due to turbulent mixing. More unstable stability classes showed consistently lower concentrations than stable classes. Over all it was found that shelterbelts can enhance dispersion, but continued studies need to couple this type of research with modeling.
Library of Congress Subject Headings
Swine -- Housing -- Odor control
Windbreaks, shelterbelts, etc
Hydrogen sulfide
Format
application/pdf
Number of Pages
58
Publisher
South Dakota State University
Recommended Citation
Hofer, Brett J., "Effect of a Shelterbelt on H[subscript 2]S Concentrations from Swine Barns" (2009). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 1579.
https://openprairie.sdstate.edu/etd2/1579
