The invention relates to a method of treating manure such that odor from
the manure is significantly reduced or eliminated and producing therefrom
recyclable water, value-added biosolids and ammonia. Specifically, the
manure is combined with lime at high pH. The material is mixed under
negative pressure and the basic conditions cause ammonia to be evolved
from the manure which is then drawn off and recovered. A coagulating
agent is then added which further promotes floc formation within the
manure. Following further mixing, flocs are separated from the liquid
portion. A struvite-promoting chemical and a coagulant are then added to
the liquid portion which causes further floc formation, and the flocs are
again separated from the substantially clear liquid. It is of note that
as a result of this process, the solids are highly hydrophobic and dry
very quickly. It is of further note that solids isolated from either step
can be combined and sold, for example, as fertilizer, as discussed below.
The clear liquid can be used, for example, in barn washes or for
horticultural watering.