Publication Date

7-1970

Advisor(s) - Committee Chair

Elmer Gray, James McGuire, W.H. Stroube, L.D. Brown

Degree Program

Department of Agriculture

Degree Type

Master of Science

Abstract

The effects of ensiling on HCN potential (HCN-p) of sorghum plants were studied at Bowling Green, Kentucky in 1969-70. Four cultivars were sampled at various growth stages and ensiled in 1.8 liter glass containers fitted with gas release valves. The plant material was analyzed for HCN-p by the sodium picrate procedure prior to ensiling, immediately after being removed from the silo, and after 24 and 48 hours of air-drying. Gases released during ensiling, and gases flushed from the silos were analyzed for HCN. The level of HCN-p decreased during the ensiling period and during the first 24-hour drying period. Some HON was found in the gases which were released during the aerobic respiration portion of the ensiling process. Low levels Of HCN were detected when the silos were flushed with CO2 at intervals during the ensiling period. Although the levels of HCN-p varied with cultivars and growth stages, the ensiling effects were relatively consistent for cultivars and growth stages.

Disciplines

Agriculture | Agronomy and Crop Sciences | Life Sciences | Plant Sciences

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