The fixation of nitrogen in urea ammoniated wheat straw by means of different acids

The fixation of nitrogen in urea ammoniated wheat straw by means of different acids was investigated in two laboratory trials and in a voluntary-intake trial with adult SA Mutton Merino wethers. Results from the laboratory trials showed hydrochloric and sulphuric acid to be superior to phosphoric and acetic acid as fixation agents, and indicated that the N content of urea ammoniated wheat straw could be effectively increased by as much as 60%, following treatment with the former two acids. However, the low and variable voluntary intakes obtained with ammoniated straw treated in this way limits practical use.