Citation

Toenjes, D. A., Bell, M., Curley, R., Jenkins, B., Garrett, W., Brooks, C., Norman, B., Quick, J. and H. Walker, Baler-ammoniation of rice straw. Comprehensive Research on Rice Annual Report, Project RS-6, University of California and United States Department of Agriculture, pp 206-211, 1982.

Abstract

Concise General Summary of Current Year's Results: The bale made by the Vermeer 4'x5' baler had the highest density, was the easiest to transport and was the most uniform shape of the three bales tested in 1980 and 1981. It was demonstrated that during the rainy season unmodified hammer-mill such as tub grinders may not be able to mill rice straw stored outside. Shear-bar cutter heads may be required for milling of rice straw. Analysis of samples drawn from 1980 4'x5' bales indicate that during the period of Dec. 15-Feb 6 (54 days) the following trends occurred relative to time: IVD decreased, TSAE no trend, total nitrogen decreased, moisture level no trend, bale weights of untreated bales decreased, ash of untreated bales increased-treated bales decreased, crude fiber no change, NFE decreased, calcium and phosphorus no trends, potassium decreased, net energy for maintenance decreased in untreated bales only and net energy for gain in both groups decreased over time. The following trends were established relative to the baler-ammoniation; IVD increased, TSAE increased, total N increased, baler-ammoniated straw was relatively stable at 29% moisture, more dry matter was stored in ammoniated bales, ammoniated bales did not decrease in as fed weight, higher levels of NH4 was present in ammoniated bales, ash level did not increase, untreated straw had higher NFE, net energy for maintenance and for gain was greater for ammoniated straw. It was established that ammonia levels may not equalize throughout the mass of rice straw in a high density round bale. Even those placed in a 6 mil polyethylene sleeve at time of baling did not equalize. Variations in levels of ammonia may be relative to inflow volume of rice straw. It is not clear how this condition relates to the level of change in the cellulosic material. It may be possible that through a better designed applicator we may achieve a more uniform NH3 level and increased IVD.

Country, State, District, etc.

United States, California

Language

English

Material

rice straw

Use category

baling