Particulate Control Efficiency of a Water Sprinkler System at a Beef Cattle Feedlot in Kansas

Abstract

Water sprinkler systems are one method for controlling particulate matter (PM) emissions from cattle feedlots; however, limited data are available on the efficiency of these systems. This research was conducted to determine the PM control efficiency of a water sprinkler system in a cattle feedlot in Kansas. Downwind and upwind PM10 concentrations at the feedlot (KS1) were monitored with tapered element oscillating microbalance (TEOM) PM10 monitors from January 2006 to July 2009. The feedlot was equipped with a sprinkler system with a maximum water application rate of 5.0 mm d-1 (5.0 L m-2 d-1). Control efficiency was determined by considering the PM10 data during sprinkler on/off events (i.e., the sprinkler system was operated for at least one day and was either followed or preceded by at least one day of no water sprinkling). Control efficiency equaled the percentage reduction in net PM10 concentration (i.e., downwind concentration - upwind concentration). PM10 control efficiency ranged from 32% to 80% with an overall mean of 53% (based on 24 h PM10 values). The effect of the sprinkler system in reducing net PM10 concentration lasted for one day or less. The PM10 concentration percentage reduction due to rainfall events was also determined at feedlot KS1 and at another feedlot (KS2). Feedlot KS2, located less than 40 km from KS1, was not equipped with a sprinkler system but practiced more frequent pen cleaning. Percentage reductions in net PM10 concentrations due to rainfall events were mostly in the range of 60% to almost 100% for both feedlots, with overall means of 77% for KS1 and 76% for KS2. The effects of rainfall events (with rainfall amounts >10 mm per event) lasted for 3 to 7 days depending on rainfall amount and intensity.