Bioresource and Agricultural Engineering Commons^™

Characterization And Quantification Of Monomers, Oligomers, And By-Products From Switchgrass Hemicelluloses During Biomass Pretreatment, Kris Allan Bunnell

Graduate Theses and Dissertations

Production of fuels and chemicals from biomass is contingent upon economical release of carbohydrates from biomass. Carbohydrates can then be used for production of bio-based products using a biochemical conversion process. Pretreatment, the first step of the biochemical conversion process, has been suggested to be the most costly step of the conversion process. Thus, better understanding the behavior of biomass during pretreatment is imperative for an economically viable production of biofuels and chemicals. Elucidating the physicochemical properties of biomass and developing an understanding the depolymerization patterns of biomass during pretreatment will help progress towards this goal.

In this study, July- …

Evaluation Of Broiler Litter Heat Production During Windrowing & Nitrogen Based Gas Emission Mitigation Using Biofilter, Min Lei

Graduate Theses and Dissertations

Ammonia emission from animal feeding operations (AFOs) has negative effects on environment and animals' health. Thus measuring and mitigating ammonia emission from AFOs is important for environmental protection. In chapter I, different ammonia measurements were discussed and a mitigation technology- biofilter was represented.

In-house windrowing of built-up litter has been used by broiler producers to reduce pathogen loads and rejuvenate litter for the next flock. When litter is piled up for an extended period during downtime, heat generated by the litter pile can become a substantial heat source due to the metabolism of microorganisms. In chapter II, heat production rates …

The Use Of Co-Culturing In Solid Substrate Cultivation And Possible Solutions To Scientific Challenges, Wanying Yao, Sue E. Nokes

Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering Faculty Publications

This perspective systematically summarizes the use of solid substrate co‐cultures in agriculture, food, plant, and industrial biotechnology applications. The summarization is organized by organism, i.e. fungus, bacteria, yeast and then co‐cultivation of either two or three organisms. Generally, in solid substrate co‐culture, the organisms synergistically penetrate and degrade the solid substrate, thereby increasing product yield and productivity over a monoculture. Efforts to increase co‐culture performance include optimizing process parameters (pH, temperature, moisture, and oxygen demand) and defining the acceptable types of substrate. Scientific challenges exist in understanding the interactions between microbial stains, such as viability, suite of products, and bio‐transformations. …

Narrow Grass Hedge Effects On Nutrient Transport Following Swine Slurry Application, John E. Gilley, Shannon L. Bartelt-Hunt, Seth J. Lamb, Xu Li, David B. Marx, Daniel D. Snow, David B. Parker, Brian L. Woodbury

Department of Agricultural and Biological Systems Engineering: Faculty Publications

The effectiveness of a narrow grass hedge in reducing runoff nutrient loads following swine slurry application was examined. Slurry was applied to 0.75 m wide by 4.0 m long plots established on an Aksarben silty clay loam soil located in southeast Nebraska. Manure treatments consisted of no manure application and manure application to meet the 1, 2, or 3 year nitrogen (N) requirements for corn. Runoff water quality was measured during three 30 min simulated rainfall events. The grass hedge did not significantly reduce runoff nutrient transport after the swine slurry, which contained relatively small amounts of manure, was applied. …

Finite Element Modeling Of Phosphorus Leaching Through Floodplain Soils Dominated By Preferential Flow Pathways, Ryan P. Freiberger, Derek M. Heeren, Garey A. Fox

Department of Agricultural and Biological Systems Engineering: Faculty Publications

Phosphorus is a critical nutrient in soils, providing both positive and negative effects to different systems. While optimum crop growth requires a range of P above 0.2 mg/L, preventing surface water enrichment generally requires P to be below 0.03 mg/L. Proper application and control of phosphorus is important to increase farming efficiency and to protect freshwater systems from toxic algal growth. While the movement of phosphorus through many soil types has been well-documented, the presence of highly conductive, gravel outcrops and macropores in soil can have a significant, poorly-documented effect on phosphorus movement. In the Ozark ecoregion, for example, the …

Horizontal Pressures In Cylindrical Metal Silos And Comparison With Different International Standards, José W. B. Do Nascimiento, José P. Lopes Neto, Michael D. Montross

Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering Faculty Publications

The focus of this research was to evaluate the horizontal pressures on a cylindrical metal silo of corrugated walls and flat bottom with 1.82m diameter and 5.4m high, and to compare the values with those obtained theoretically by the ISO 11697, EP 433 and AS 3774 standards. The silo was symmetrically filled and constant speed with wheat cv. soft red for two different height/diameter ratios (H/D) and was unloaded through three orifices with a diameter of 71.6mm, one concentric and two eccentrics. Horizontal pressures were measured on the walls of the silo at three positions using hydraulic type pressure cells. …

Zein: Novel Natural Polymer For Nanoparticle- And Film-Mediated Gene Delivery, Jessica D. Taylor

Department of Agricultural and Biological Systems Engineering: Dissertations, Theses, and Student Research

Gene delivery, the introduction of DNA into cells, is applicable to gene therapy, DNA vaccination, functional genomics and diagnostics, tissue engineering, and drug-eluting medical devices. Particulates incorporating DNA are promising vehicles for gene delivery and overcome some of the barriers that hinder successful gene transfer, with the ability to protect DNA and provide for controlled, localized, and sustained release and transfection. Furthermore, innovative new gene delivery strategies that incorporate DNA particulates or complexes within films or coatings for devices and scaffolds could further provide for controlled and sustained transfection at the site of implant. Zein, a hydrophobic protein from corn, …

Nanowell-Trapped Charged Ligand-Bearing Nanoparticle Surfaces – A Novel Method Of Enhancing Flow-Resistant Cell Adhesion, Phat L. Tran, Jessica R. Gamboa, Katherine E. Mccracken, Mark R. Riley, Marvin J. Slepian, Jeong-Yeal Yoon

Department of Agricultural and Biological Systems Engineering: Faculty Publications

Assuring cell adhesion to an underlying biomaterial surface is vital in implant device design and tissue engineering, particularly under circumstances where cells are subjected to potential detachment from overriding fl uid fl ow. Cell–substrate adhesion is a highly regulated process involving the interplay of mechanical properties, surface topographic features, electrostatic charge, and biochemical mechanisms. At the nanoscale level, the physical properties of the underlying substrate are of particular importance in cell adhesion. Conventionally, natural, pro-adhesive, and often thrombogenic, protein biomaterials are frequently utilized to facilitate adhesion. In the present study, nanofabrication techniques are utilized to enhance the biological functionality of …

Impact Of Measurement Scale On Infiltration And Phosphorus Leaching In Ozark Floodplains, Derek M. Heeren, Garey A. Fox, Daniel E. Storm, Brian E. Haggard, Chad J. Penn, Todd Halihan

Department of Agricultural and Biological Systems Engineering: Faculty Publications

Increased nutrient loads have resulted in several adverse impacts on surface water quality, including excessive algal growth, fish kills, and drinking water taste and odor issues across the United States and especially in the Ozark ecoregion of northeastern Oklahoma and northwestern Arkansas. The significance of this problem has been highlighted by litigation, with one case even reaching the U.S. Supreme Court (Arkansas et al. v. Oklahoma et al., 503 U.S. 91) which required the upstream state to meet downstream water quality standards. The overarching objective of this line of research was to characterize phosphorus leaching to alluvial aquifers in the …

Application Of Isothermal Calorimetry To The Study Of Phosphorus Sorption Onto Soils In A Flow-Through System, Chad J. Penn, Derek M. Heeren, Garey A. Fox

Department of Agricultural and Biological Systems Engineering: Faculty Publications

The degree, mechanisms, and kinetics of phosphorus (P) sorption onto soils can have a significant influence on leaching losses of P from soil. The objectives of this study were to measure the impact of retention time (RT) on P sorption in a flow-through system intended to simulate downward movement of a P solution through two different riparian soils, and determine if isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) can provide useful information reflective of flow-through results. Topsoil from two riparian/alluvial soils was sampled and characterized for P concentrations and parameters related to P sorption. Flow-through P sorption experiments were conducted in order to …

Field Evaluation Of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungal Colonization In Bacillus Thuringiensis Toxin-Expressing (Bt) And Non-Bt Maize, Tanya E. Cheeke, Mitchell B. Cruzan, Todd N. Rosenstiel

Biology Faculty Publications and Presentations

The cultivation of genetically engineered Bacillus thuringiensis toxin-expressing (Bt) maize continues to increase worldwide, yet the effects of Bt crops on arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) in soil are poorly understood. In this field experiment, we investigated the impact of seven different genotypes of Bt maize and five corresponding non-Bt parental cultivars on AMF and evaluated plant growth responses at three different physiological time points. Plants were harvested 60 days (active growth), 90 days (tasseling and starting to produce ears), and 130 days (maturity) after sowing, and data on plant growth responses and percent AMF colonization of roots at each harvest …

Influence Of Media Composition On The Growth Rate Of Chlorella Vulgaris And Scenedesmus Acutus Utilized For Co2 Mitigation, Czarena L. Crofcheck, Xinyi E, Aubrey Shea, Michael D. Montross, Mark Crocker, Rodney Andrews

Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering Faculty Publications

Atmospheric carbon dioxide levels have increased since the industrial revolution due to increasing combustion of fossil fuels. One possible CO₂ mitigation strategy is the use of microalgae for mitigation of CO₂. This paper focuses on the influence of media composition on the growth rate of two microalgae strains, Chlorella vulgaris and Scenedesmus actus. A KNO₃ based medium was found to work better for Chlorella, while a urea based equivalent worked better for Scenedesmus. The urea based media investigated here resulted in growth similar to that found with previously reported KNO₃ based media. …

Laboratory Evaluation Of A Turn Compensation Control System For A Ground Sprayer, Wesley M. Porter, Jorge A. Rascon, Yeyin Shi, Randal K. Taylor, Paul A. Weckler

Department of Agricultural and Biological Systems Engineering: Faculty Publications

The ability to compensate sprayer nozzle flow across a horizontal boom has the potential to mitigate the problem of inaccurate chemical application rate due to lateral speed differences when sprayers are turning. A laboratory testing platform and procedure were developed and tested with a commercial turn compensation control system for a ground sprayer. Virtual paths consisting of simulated GPS signals representing right and left turns separated by straight segments were simulated with four turning radii (75%, 125%, 250%, and 500%) based on boom width. Actual application rates from 11 nozzles spread across the boom were measured using load cells in …

Autocad Course Book Update, Todd Sammons

BioResource and Agricultural Engineering

This project is a proposed updated version of the course book used in the BRAE 151 course. The book that is currently used is a product of Doug Phillips (BRAE ’03). Since Mr. Phillips designed the book currently used, many new features have been added and the user interface is drastically different. This purpose of this book is to bring the course book used in BRAE 151 up the current version.

Design And Construction Of A Remedial Pumping System, Brandon Downing

BioResource and Agricultural Engineering

This senior project discusses the design and construction of a remedial pumping system at Cal Poly’s Swanton Pacific Ranch. The site the system is installed is called the College Well Station where it will be used to irrigate about two acres of turf. Excessive iron residue is in their water, so in order to prevent this residue from clogging the irrigation system, this system was installed. The system consists of a 2,500 gallon settling tank, booster pump, variable frequency drive (VFD), and a bladder tank. The settling tank will settle the iron particles to the bottom, preventing the pump from …

Design And Application Of Recycled Asphalt Roads For A Vineyard In San Luis Obispo County, Carl Gates Molitor

BioResource and Agricultural Engineering

This project encompasses the design, schedule and budget of a recycled asphalt driveway located on a vineyard in San Luis Obispo County. The design parameters that served as the basis of this project were provided by Mr. Jean-Pierre Wolff of Wolff vineyards. He owns and operates a local winery on the outskirts of San Luis Obispo. He implemented a similar upgrade on his own winery. The purpose of these road improvements was to improve the conditions for the grapes as well the air quality for visitors to the winery. The new road needed to be wider and more suitable for …

Design, Construction And Evaluation Of A Low Head Hydroelectric Turbine For Canals, Sean Phillip Ellenson

BioResource and Agricultural Engineering

Means of hydroelectric power generation today typically require state or federal funding, massive construction projects and high head differentials with the use of a dam. With thousands of miles of canals and waterways at our disposal, it is necessary to find a cost effective way of generating a substantial amount of power from low-head hydroelectric power sources.

This senior project details research on low-head hydroelectric power generation, along with the design, construction and evaluation of a twisted Savonius hydroelectric turbine. Sizing optimizations for a twisted Savonius turbine were performed, and the hydroelectric power generation unit was constructed, including a housing …

Compilation Of A Handbook For The Cal Poly Tractor Pull Team, Jake Wilcox

BioResource and Agricultural Engineering

This senior project discusses the compilation of a handbook for the Cal Poly Tractor Pull Team. The handbook was written to aid new team members and students in getting acquainted to the history of the motorsport, what is expected of a team member, standard operating procedures of equipment, and event operations.

Results were obtained from a quiz administered to various persons. Responses showed ease of locating information as well as areas of potential improvement.

Design, Construction And Cost Analysis Of Manufacturing Horse Bits, Erica L. Timmermans

BioResource and Agricultural Engineering

This report discusses the design, fabrication and cost analysis of two unique horse bits. On the market today, there are many different kinds of bits to serve a multitude of purposes. However, this project explored the option of having two different shanks types made of stainless steel in addition to three mouthpieces that are able to fit in both types of shanks.

Design, Construction, And Evaluation Of A Portable Reusable Plastic Container Dumper, Kevin J. Lau

BioResource and Agricultural Engineering

This senior project discusses the design, construction, and evaluation of a portable RPC (Reusable Plastic Container) dumper. This RPC dumper is one piece of a citrus processing system to package citrus. Bee Sweet currently utilizes man power in order to dump its RPCs whereas this design will decrease the amount of man power needed to dump RPCs during high workloads.

The goal of this project was to design, construct, and test a custom fabricated RPC dumper that will decrease the number of people needed to dump RPCs and also the amount of damage on the oranges when being dumped from …