Sampling and Measurement of Ammonia Concentration at Animal Facilities – A Review

Scientific understanding and technical control of ammonia (NH3) at animal facilities largely depend on sampling and measurement techniques. Good sampling/measurement techniques provide high quality data that are essential in the study and abatement of NH3 emission. For many years until now, there have been only a few publications that address the application of these techniques at animal facilities under field conditions. This review emphasizes the sampling and measurement of NH3 applied under field conditions and draws an updated picture of the state-of-the-art of NH3 concentration measurement at animal facilities. Four types of sampling techniques and nine groups of measuring devices for NH3 concentration are described and summarized. Variables of measurement, and principles, procedures, advantages and disadvantages of various sampling/measurement techniques are reviewed. Recommendations are made for future research including development of methodologies and standards.