Beef

Calcium Oxide and Calcium Hydroxide Treatment of Corn Silage

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Abstract

Nutrient analysis of Calcium Oxide (CaO) and Calcium Hydroxide (Ca(OH)2) treatment of corn silage will show a reduced neutral detergent fiber (NDF) levels, increased calcium, increased crude protein and a slightly improved invitro digestibility of these feedstuffs due to the strong base degrading the plant fiber. Treated corn silage does appear to ferment eventually, but not as rapidly as non treated corn silage. The moisture present in the harvested forage is adequate for the reaction to take place and provides a heat sink for the heat generated from the reaction to prevent combustion. Additional work including feeding trials would help determine any real potential benefit.

Keywords: ASL R2774

How to Cite:

Dahlke, G. R. & Euken, R. M., (2013) “Calcium Oxide and Calcium Hydroxide Treatment of Corn Silage”, Iowa State University Animal Industry Report 10(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/ans_air-180814-973