Resíduos ganaderos : Purines y Estiércoles

Abstract

Slurry and/or manure are generate on cattle farms. The main difference between the two is the water content, which is much higher in slurry, reaching values of above 90%. The volume and composition depends on the type of management carried out by the farmer on the farmer. In the case of slurry, between 50-55 liters/cow/day can be produced. Slurry is rich in organic matter and nitrogen (organic and ammoniacal), phosphorus and potassium, as well as containing heavy metals such as zinc and copper. Managing slurry can result in emissions to the atmosphere, mainly methane, ammonia, nitrous oxide and volatile organic compounds (VOC). Water pollution may be due to different substances present in the type of waste, such as organic matter, whose main effect is the reduction of dissolved oxygen present in the water, and nitrogen and phosphorus compounds that cause eutrophication. Managing slurry must be carried out taking into account the Hierarchy of Option of Waste Management (Waste Law). In the case of manure and slurry: minimization (produce less); use as fertilizer, applying the appropriate techniques: and finally treatment of the surplusses (composting in the case of manure, anaerobic treatment in the case of slurry, accompanied by pre-treatments and/or post-treatments).