FAQ

What causes ammonia to form?
First stage is a result of Protein Putrefaction. This comes about as the result of certain enzymes on amino acids during the digestion process resulting in the forming of Indole and Skatole (both contribute to the odor of feces: both have in their chemical makeup, Hydrogen and Nitrogen).
Stage II begins when the feces is excreted resulting in the natural or mild oxidation action of free oxygen. Free oxygen molecules attach themselves to hydrogen molecules in the feces resulting in moisture or condensation, causing the remaining hydrogen and nitrogen molecules to become a gaseous substance, lighter than air, rising in the atmosphere as ammonia. Also, this mild oxidation action triggers everpresent bacteria in the feces causing odors identified with feed lots and poultry growout areas. The same action holds true with urine.
What is Ammonia Hold?
Ammonia Hold is a granular substance, light gray in color, that uses a monocalcium phosphate base with a blend of trace minerals and other inert ingredients to naturally prevent the formation of ammonia and other odors.
Studies have shown Ammonia Hold to be effective and safe with no adverse reactions. Poultry test groups using Ammonia Hold have resulted in lower mortality rates, increased feed gain and lower condemnation rates. Studies in municipal biosolid composting have shown to increase the rate of composting and boost nitrogen levels resulting in an increased fertilizer value when biosolids are blended with Ammonia Hold.
How does Ammonia Hold work?
Ammonia Hold binds the nitrogen found in feces and urine so that ammonia cannot form.
How do I apply the product?
Because the particle size of Ammonia Hold is not uniformed, a drop spreader is strongly recommended so that you will get an even distribution throughout the house. An example of a drop spreader can be found on the application page.
What is the recommended application rate?
If there is existing litter in the poultry house, the recommended rate of application is 1 bag per 2,000 square feet on the initial treatment. In most cases this would be the initial application rate since most operators are cleaning out less often. Ammonia Hold would be applied after the cake has been removed and prior to top dressing with fresh shavings.
If treating a house that has been cleaned out, the recommended rate of application is 1 bag per 2,000 square feet. In this situation, the Ammonia Hold would be applied on top of the shavings.
How long does it take for Ammonia Hold to work?
Ammonia Hold should be applied 48 to 72 hours before the placement of birds. It can also be applied as much as a week before bird placement.
How often do I apply Ammonia Hold?
After every growout.
What does Ammonia Hold do to the fertilizer value of the litter?
Studies conducted by Dr. Dale Baker, Penn State University, retired Professor of Soil Chemistry, have shown litter treated with Ammonia Hold increases the nitrogen content of the litter by 25% to 30%, producing a slow release of the nitrogen when applied as a fertilizer. For additional information go to technical info.
What is the difference between Ammonia Hold and other ammonia suppressants in the marketplace?
Most other ammonia suppressants acidified the litter, dropping the PH to a level that ammonia cannot be produced. After a period of 10 to 14 days, the PH rises and you will have increased levels of ammonia throughout the house.
The ammonia suppressants that acidified the litter can be very corrosive and decrease the life expectancy of equipment that is used throughout the house, requiring earlier replacement of that equipment. This should be viewed as a hidden expense associated with ammonia suppressants that acidify the litter.
Ammonia Hold is non-corrosive, easily applied and binds the nitrogen found in feces and urine so that ammonia cannot form.
Do I treat the entire house with the product?
Yes. It is strongly recommended that the entire house be treated, not just the brood end. Most other ammonia suppressants acidified the litter, dropping the PH to a level that ammonia cannot be produced. After a period of 10 to 14 days, the PH rises and you will have increased levels of ammonia throughout the house.
How do I become a dealer?
Contact our office at 800.375.0613 and ask to speak with a Sales Representative.
If I sell my litter to mushroom growers in my area will Ammonia Hold affect the mushroom yield?
Studies conducted by Dr. David M. Beyer, Assistant Professor and Extension Specialist Mushroom Science and Technology, Penn State University, showed no adverse effects on mushroom yield.
Is it safe to apply Ammonia Hold while the birds are in the house?
Yes, but it is recommended to have Ammonia Hold down 48 to 72 hours prior to bird placement.
How do I find the nearest dealer?
Click on the dealer link. If you do not find a dealer near you, please contact our office at 800.375.0613.