Education

Research Description

Livestock barn ventilation, heating, and cooling; agricultural air quality; renewable energy applications in livestock barns

Honors and Awards

• Special Specialist Award, 2006
• Robert W. Bottcher Promising Researcher Award, 2004
• Faculty Research and Professional Development Award, 2004
• WVU Extension Service Outstanding Developing Researcher Award, 2002

Publications

Impact of microbial waste additives and glucose on ammonia emissions from broiler litter in the lab

Shah, S. B., McKettrick, W., Najafian, A., & Grimes, J. (2021), JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND HEALTH PART A-TOXIC/HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES & ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEERING. https://doi.org/10.1080/10934529.2021.1886776

Recycled eggshells as precursors for iron-impregnated calcium oxide catalysts for partial oxidation of methane

Karoshi, G., Kolar, P., Shah, S. B., & Gilleskie, G. (2020), BIORESOURCES AND BIOPROCESSING, 7(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s40643-020-00336-4

Valorization of Eggshell Waste into Supported Copper Catalysts for Partial Oxidation of Methane

Karoshi, G., Kolar, P., Shah, S. B., & Gilleskie, G. (2019), INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH. https://doi.org/10.1007/s41742-019-00238-0

Windbreak Wall-Vegetative Strip System to Reduce Air Emissions from Mechanically Ventilated Livestock Barns: Part 2—Swine House Evaluation

Ajami, A., Shah, S. B., Wang-Li, L., Kolar, P., & Castillo, M. S. (2019), Water, Air, & Soil Pollution, 230(12). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11270-019-4335-2

Windbreak Wall-Vegetative Strip System to Reduce Air Emissions from Mechanically Ventilated Livestock Barns—Part 3: Layer House Evaluation

Ajami, A., Shah, S. B., Wang-Li, L., Kolar, P., & Castillo, M. S. (2019), Water, Air, & Soil Pollution, 230(12). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11270-019-4345-0

Windbreak Wall-vegetative Strip System to Reduce Air Emissions from Mechanically-Ventilated Livestock Barns – Part 1: CFD Modeling

Ajami, A., Shah, S. B., & Stikeleather, L. F. (2019), Water, Air, & Soil Pollution, 230(12). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11270-019-4333-4

A novel non-invasive method for evaluating electroencephalograms on laying hens

Eberle, K. N., Martin, M. P., Shah, S., Malheiros, R. D., Livingston, K. A., & Anderson, K. E. (2018), Poultry Science, 97(3), 860–864. https://doi.org/10.3382/ps/pex391

Evaluation of Ventilation Shutdown in a Multi-level Caged System

Eberle-Krish, K. N., Martin, M. P., Malheiros, R. D., Shah, S. B., Livingston, K. A., & Anderson, K. E. (2018), The Journal of Applied Poultry Research, 27(4), 555–563. https://doi.org/10.3382/japr/pfy036

Evaluation of a novel, low-cost plastic solar air heater for turkey brooding

Poole, M. R., Shah, S. B., Grimes, J. L., Boyette, M. D., & Stikeleather, L. F. (2018), Energy for Sustainable Development, 45, 1–10. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.esd.2018.04.004

Evaluation of landscape fabric as a solar air heater

Poole, M. R., Shah, S. B., Boyette, M. D., Grimes, J. L., & Stikeleather, L. F. (2018), Renewable Energy, 127, 998–1003. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.renene.2018.05.045

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Grants

Optimizing Greenhouse Drying of Swine Lagoon Sludge to Support Implementation in NC and VA

Virginia Pork Council(4/15/21 - 10/14/22)

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Optimizing Greenhouse Drying of Swine Lagoon Sludge to Support Implementation in NC and VA

Sponsor: Virginia Pork Council

Start Date: 4/15/21

End Date: 10/14/22

Abstract

This project addresses a critical need to swine producers using anaerobic lagoons. This need is sludge processing and off-farm export. Sludge has a high phosphorus-to-nitrogen ratio (P: N), making it a more challenging product to utilize. Moreover, high concentrations of copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) in the sludge can negatively impact receiving fields and crops if applied on a nitrogen-basis. Reducing water content in sludge is a critical challenge facing sludge utilization. Water removal (drying) is an energy intensive process that can require large capital investment. Commercial dryers are an expensive option for swine sludge drying. Solar dryers, on the other hand, represent a class of promising drying technologies that can be leveraged to reduce sludge water without a significant capital/operating cost. This study aims to assess greenhouse drying systems used to dry swine lagoon sludge and provide design recommendations to operators to optimize performance.

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Identification of early indicators of Necrotic enteritis disease in broiler chickens

United States Poultry & Egg Association(9/01/21 - 8/31/22)

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Identification of early indicators of Necrotic enteritis disease in broiler chickens

Sponsor: United States Poultry & Egg Association

Start Date: 9/01/21

End Date: 8/31/22

Abstract

Problem: In this age of ‘no antibiotic ever’ farming, the re-emerging Necrotic enteritis (NE) disease caused by Clostridium perfringens have posed a major economically important health concern in poultry, particularly in the broiler population. Identifying early-stage indicators of NE can help initiate prompt disease control measures, thus enabling judicious use of antibiotics on the broiler farms. Research has shown a significant correlation between the pattern and concentrations of specific class of volatile organic compounds (VOC) such as reduced Sulphur compounds (RSC) and the occurrence of various enteric diseases. With the aid of USPOULTRY funding, we have previously developed a portable low-cost sensor system for measuring ammonia in poultry houses. Here, we propose to identify early-stage NE-specific VOC, specifically RSC in the air, as physiological markers of NE development. Furthermore, our findings will be applied for developing a method suitable for identifying rapid and reliable NE detection precision tech-tools. Objective : To identify specific VOC/ RSC patterns associated with early NE stages and develop a method suitable for devising rapid and reliable precision-based air-analysis tools. Approach: We will first reproduce NE in broilers using an experimental C. perfringens challenge model. Next, the subtle changes in the air VOC, including RSC composition during different stages of NE disease progression will be evaluated using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) technique and identify specific VOC pattern associated with the early stages of NE. Finally, we will validate GC-MS method findings with precision portable handheld VOC sensor devices. Industry value: The proposed work aims to identify specific VOC/RSC patterns associated with early stages C. perfringens infections with high reliability and thus, aid in developing an effective sensor-based platform for rapid detection of NE. This work is industry application oriented such that our science and technology interface would yield value-added means for the poultry producers to use in empowering them to grow chickens with no or judicious use of on-farm antibiotics.

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Miscanthus Biochar Potential as A Poultry Litter Amendment

NC Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services(3/31/21 - 9/30/22)

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Miscanthus Biochar Potential as A Poultry Litter Amendment

Sponsor: NC Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services

Start Date: 3/31/21

End Date: 9/30/22

Abstract

The goal of this project is to identify a valuable use for bioenergy bioenergy byproduct (biochar) within the NC poultry sector. Such use can improve the economic outlook of miscanthus adoption as well as its utilization in bioenergy generation. As such, this project aims at assessing the benefits of using miscanthus-derived biochar as a poultry litter additive. Poultry litter additives are typically used to reduce litter ammonia concentration, as well as control pathogenic microorganisms and reduce pests which, without intervention, can reduce poultry productivity and welfare. Currently, the industry relies on commercial treatment additives, such as alum or PLT ®, which can be a significant cost to production and require repeated additions to maintain benefits. This project aims at assessing the impact of biochar production conditions and treatment on ammonia emissions from broiler litter.

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Demonstration of a Low-Cost Engineered Windbreak Wall-Vegetative Strip System for Reducing Odor Emissions from Livestock Barns

NC Department of Justice (NCDOJ)(1/01/21 - 12/31/23)

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Demonstration of a Low-Cost Engineered Windbreak Wall-Vegetative Strip System for Reducing Odor Emissions from Livestock Barns

Sponsor: NC Department of Justice (NCDOJ)

Start Date: 1/01/21

End Date: 12/31/23

Abstract

North Carolina is the biggest producer of confined livestock, poultry and swine. While confined livestock production is economically efficient, it can have substantial environmental impacts, on soil, water, and air qualities. Emissions from livestock barns have significant impacts on the environment, public health, and quality of life, particularly, due to odors. Odor emission have resulted in multiple lawsuits and judgments against the NC swine industry, that have the potential to damage the sustainability of the swine industry and perhaps, poultry industry. This may even damage NC's agricultural economy. The low-cost windbreak wall - vegetative strip system has been shown to reduce odor emissions by nearly 80% 10 m in front of swine and poultry house fans. The system comprises of a mosquito screen covering all the exhaust fans framed with dimension lumber. A 30-cm opening under the front screen prevents excessive pressure rise and is screened by a strip of switchgrass that traps dust and absorbs odorous gases. The system reduces exhaust emissions through the front screen and increases emissions through the top and sides, and thus improves dilution and reduce horizontal odor transport. Since dust transports odorous gases, the system also reduces odor emissions by trapping dust. The system also reduces water pollution by reducing dust collection in drainage swales between barns that can be transported into receiving waters. We propose to demonstrate the system in a swine and broiler barn to stakeholders to increase the use and adoption of this low-cost system to reduce odor emissions and increase sustainability of confined livestock production in NC.

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Investigating Lagoon Sludge Management and Drying Impacts and Opportunities

Smithfield Foods, Inc.(5/01/20 - 10/15/21)

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Investigating Lagoon Sludge Management and Drying Impacts and Opportunities

Sponsor: Smithfield Foods, Inc.

Start Date: 5/01/20

End Date: 10/15/21

Abstract

Swine lagoon sludge is a nutrient-rich resource that requires frequent removal and sustainable use to minimize any adverse environmental impacts. This works scope will investigate two key work scopes: (1) impact of lagoon sludge level on irrigation frequency and nutrient composition of lagoon supernatant, and (2) compare technical and economic performance of industrial drying systems that can be adopted in NC to dry lagoon sludge.

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Using Electrostatic Precipitator to Improve Indoor Air Quality in Cage-Free Layer Houses

United States Poultry & Egg Association(8/01/20 - 12/31/22)

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Using Electrostatic Precipitator to Improve Indoor Air Quality in Cage-Free Layer Houses

Sponsor: United States Poultry & Egg Association

Start Date: 8/01/20

End Date: 12/31/22

Abstract

Due to regulations and animal welfare concerns, cage-free (CF) egg production is expected to greatly increase. Because CF egg layers have access to litter, conditions in the barn are very dusty which affects bird health and performance as well as the health of the workers. Liquid spraying has been tested to control dust but it can increase ammonia levels and make the floor eggs dirty. We propose to use a recirculating air-cleaner that uses electrostatic precipitation (EP) to reduce dust (hence, dust-bound ammonia) levels. The trapped dust will be collected using a timer-operated mechanical rapper in a garbage bag. The EP air cleaner will be tested in a CF layer house in Orange County for 6 months. Once every week, the EP cleaner's removal efficiency for heterotrophic bacteria, total fungi, and ammonia will be measured. It is expected that a commercial CF layer house with 17,000 birds will require seven such units.

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Improving Lagoon Sludge Management in Lagoon-Sprayfield Swine Production Facilities

US Dept. of Agriculture (USDA) - National Institute of Food and Agriculture(7/01/19 - 6/30/22)

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Improving Lagoon Sludge Management in Lagoon-Sprayfield Swine Production Facilities

Sponsor: US Dept. of Agriculture (USDA) - National Institute of Food and Agriculture

Start Date: 7/01/19

End Date: 6/30/22

Abstract

Improving Lagoon Sludge Management in Lagoon-Sprayfield Swine Production Facilities

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Evaluating behavior, stress physiology, and environmental parameters during ventilation shutdown and ventilation shutdown with supplemental heat for depopulation of broiler breeders

United States Poultry & Egg Association(6/01/19 - 12/01/20)

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Evaluating behavior, stress physiology, and environmental parameters during ventilation shutdown and ventilation shutdown with supplemental heat for depopulation of broiler breeders

Sponsor: United States Poultry & Egg Association

Start Date: 6/01/19

End Date: 12/01/20

Abstract

Significant differences in management practices, bird type, and housing construction makes it difficult to prescribe the use of a single depopulation method across all farms in the event of a foreign animal disease outbreak. The primary methods ‘conditionally approved’ by USDA-APHIS and the AVMA for depopulation are CO2 and water-based foam. If depopulation with these methods cannot be achieved within 24 hours, alternative methods can be approved for use. One alternative method recently investigated for its effectiveness is ventilation shutdown (VSD). Ventilation shutdown (VSD) is defined as the cessation of natural or mechanical ventilation of atmospheric air in a building where birds are housed, with or without action to increase ambient temperature. The Department for Environment, Food, & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) set a precedence for VSD use within the United Kingdom with their “Guidelines for Killing Poultry Using Ventilation Shutdown (VSD)”. However, until recently, no research has been published to support their instructions. Researchers at North Carolina State University have spent the past three years evaluating the effectiveness of VSD and ventilation shutdown with supplemental heat (VSDH) in commercial poultry, including egg-laying hens, turkeys, and broilers. Significant differences were observed in behavior, stress physiology, and environmental parameters between species, suggesting that the effect of heat is dependent on the age, body weight, and past management experiences. These differences have led researchers to question the effectiveness of VSD and VSDH in breeders, whose body weight and management experiences vary from commercially produced poultry. The overall goal of this project is to examine the effectiveness of ventilation shut down (VSD) and ventilation shutdown with supplemental heat (VSDH) for depopulating broiler breeders. Ventilation shutdown with supplemental CO2, also known as whole house gassing (WHG), will be used as the control. The specific objectives of this project will be broken down into three phases: 1) Determining time to brain death for VSD, VSDH, and WHG; 2) Evaluating behavior and stress physiology at specific time points during depopulation; 3) Examining the effectiveness of VSD, VSDH, and WHG in a larger facility mimicking depopulation in a commercial breeder setting. The project will be completed on North Carolina State University’s campus. Both male and female breeders will be used. Bird behaviors will be attained using GoPro cameras. Blood and tissue samples will be collected to measure heat stress and changes in physiology. External and internal temperature probes will be used to measure core body temperatures. Carbon dioxide, ambient temperature, and relative humidity (RH) will be measured to determine changes in environmental parameters throughout each treatment for all three phases.

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Evaluation of two Commercial Products for their Abilities to Reduce Ammonia Volatilization from Broiler Litter

Biodyne, Inc.(2/04/19 - 5/15/19)

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Evaluation of two Commercial Products for their Abilities to Reduce Ammonia Volatilization from Broiler Litter

Sponsor: Biodyne, Inc.

Start Date: 2/04/19

End Date: 5/15/19

Abstract

Ammonia release from chicken litter can affect the health of chickens as well as workers. Emission of the ammonia into the environment can also affect environment, public health, quality of life (odor), and visibility. Certain additives can be added to the litter to reduce ammonia emissions. We propose to evaluate two biological additives for their abilities to reduce ammonia emission from litter. This 42-day study will be conducted at the bench-scale.

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Evaluating Broiler And Turkey Behavior And Physiological Stress Indicators During VSD With Additions Of Heat Or CO2 For The Development Of Humane Methodologies For Mass Depopulation During A Disease Outbreak

United States Poultry & Egg Association(10/01/17 - 5/31/19)

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Evaluating Broiler And Turkey Behavior And Physiological Stress Indicators During VSD With Additions Of Heat Or CO2 For The Development Of Humane Methodologies For Mass Depopulation During A Disease Outbreak

Sponsor: United States Poultry & Egg Association

Start Date: 10/01/17

End Date: 5/31/19

Abstract

The objective is to examine the overall effectiveness of ventilation shut down (VSD) for depopulating broilers and turkeys through monitoring environmental parameters, behavior, and stress physiology. Since these two types of poultry are vastly different it is imperative we understand their response to the depopulation methods which were developed in the first study. The evaluations will start with the evaluation of VSD, VSD+Heat and VSD+CO2 process compared these methods with broilers and turkeys. The birds will be placed in chambers with CO2 and temperature monitors to assess temperature, CO2 and percent relative humidity (RH%) as levels rise over time. Phase 1, will consist of brain activity (EEG) and body temperature will be measured at various time points to determine when hens become insensible and death occurs. Individual birds will be recorded using video cameras to assess the behavioral changes during VSD. Phase 2, will consist of blood samples collected to measure blood metabolites as indicators of heat stress at specific timed intervals throughout the process. The goal is to collect the physiological profile of the two species under controlled conditions in order to extrapolate this into the larger trials. Ultimately Phase 3 will have the goal to mimic conditions and temperatures which may occur in a commercial facility as VSD, VSD+Heat and VSD+CO2 depopulation methods are employed in a larger scale floor facility. The information found will determine the effectiveness of VSD for depopulation at given environmental conditions and allow for the large scale up to large floor houses thereby providing the industry a protocol to follow for mass depopulation in a disease outbreak.

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