Libraries at University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Date of this Version
7-1975
Document Type
Thesis
Citation
Thesis (M.S.)—University of Nebraska—Lincoln, 1975. Department of Animal Science.
Abstract
Sodium bentonite, an expanding clay, is being used in many different ways in industry today.The livestock and feed industry, for example, use it in many different ways.It is used as a pellet binder to maintain a fat test in dairy animals, as a digestive aid in the poultry industry and as a “buffering agent” in feedlot rations.
A two-pronged investigation was undertaken to determine the effect sodium bentonite could have on the ruminant feeding industry.One part of the investigation sought to determine if bentonite could partially or entirely alleviate subclinical lactic acidosis with problem rations.The other part of the investigation involved the effect of bentonite on NPN and natural protein utilization.
The literature cited in this piece has shown inconclusive results in several in vitro and in vivo trials which used sodium bentonite in some manner.The role that sodium bentonite will play in the future of the livestock industry is uncertain.Therefore, this thesis seeks to clarify the role of sodium bentonite in ruminant rations.
Advisor:Robert A. Britton
Comments
Copyright 1975, the author. Used by permission.
A public access copy is available at:
http://digitalcommons.unl.edu/opentheses/