USPOULTRY and the USPOULTRY Foundation announce a newly finalized research project which uses feather-derived activated carbon and visible-light photocatalysis to reduce ammonia and odors in commercial poultry houses. Tested in a full-scale broiler facility, the system achieved consistent ammonia reductions under commercial conditions. This innovative approach, led by a team of researchers from Georgia Southern University, supports improved bird welfare, worker safety, environmental sustainability and circular use of poultry byproducts. The research is part of the Association’s comprehensive research program encompassing all phases of poultry and egg production and processing and is made possible in part through proceeds from the International Poultry Expo, part of the International Production & Processing Expo.

Project #F117: Utilizing Carbonized Feathers in Visible Light-Responsive Photocatalytic Reactors for Poultry Odor Control

(Dr. Mohammadamin Ezazi, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Southern University, Statesboro, Ga.)

The research project, led by Dr. Ezazi and researchers at Georgia Southern University, developed and validated a visible-light-responsive photocatalytic reactor for poultry odor control. Using activated carbon, including a value-added material produced from carbonized chicken feathers paired with a visible-light-active silver phosphate photocatalyst, the system effectively reduced ammonia while supporting sustainable use of poultry processing byproducts. Results demonstrated that combining adsorption with visible-light-driven photocatalysis offers an effective, longer-lasting ammonia control strategy that can improve air quality, bird welfare and worker safety, while reducing odors, maintenance costs, regulatory risks and reliance on chemical treatments. Overall, the project confirms the technical feasibility and industry applicability of this approach and establishes a strong foundation for future scale-up and implementation in poultry facilities.

The research summary can be found on the USPOULTRY website. Information on other Association research may also be obtained by visiting the USPOULTRY website.