Methods of processing animals

Abstract

The present invention provides an animal treatment method that can prevent infectious organic waste from leaking out of burial sites. [Solution] The method includes an excavation step of digging a burial hole 1 for animal disposal in the ground, a formation step of forming a watertight layer 3 at least at the bottom of the burial hole 1, a filling step of putting animals 4 and a water-absorbing agent 5 into the burial hole 1 where the watertight layer 3 has been formed, and a backfilling step of backfilling the burial hole 1 with soil, and it is preferable that the filling step includes an alternating filling step of alternately putting in animals 4 and water-absorbing agent 5.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] This invention relates to a method for disposing of animals that are to be discarded due to euthanasia or other reasons. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, infectious livestock diseases such as avian influenza and swine fever have spread globally, and the damage is also spreading in Japan. One way to minimize the damage is to seal off areas where infectious livestock diseases have occurred, cull infected chickens, pigs, and other animals, and bury them in the soil. Since the bodily fluids of the culled animals are infectious organic waste, there are concerns that leakage into the external environment could spread secondary contamination. Therefore, it is important to prevent leakage from the burial site in order to protect nearby residents from damage caused by the smell of decay and leakage of putrefied liquids.

[0003] Conventionally, there have been methods to reduce the malodorous odor generated from soil when culled livestock are buried in the soil (see, for example, Patent Document 1). The method in Patent Document 1 involves scattering a superabsorbent resin on the surface of the soil or mixing a superabsorbent resin into the soil, and then scattering an aqueous solution of aerobic bacteria onto the soil, thereby attempting to reduce the malodorous odor generated from the soil through the action of aerobic bacteria. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2012-24427 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0005] Incidentally, euthanized animals contain a large amount of water (body fluids). As mentioned above, animal body fluids are infectious organic waste, and if they leak into the external environment, secondary contamination will spread. Therefore, when burying euthanized animals in the soil, it is insufficient to take measures to prevent foul odors; it is crucial to take measures to prevent infectious organic waste derived from animal body fluids from leaking out of the burial site.

[0006] In this regard, Patent Document 1 describes the application or mixing of a superabsorbent resin to the soil, but this is for the purpose of retaining an aqueous solution of aerobic bacteria with odor-reducing effects that is subsequently applied, and not for absorbing animal bodily fluids. This can be understood from the fact that in the method of Patent Document 1, the superabsorbent resin is applied to the surface or near the surface of the soil. Therefore, Patent Document 1 does not contain any technical concept to prevent infectious organic waste derived from animal bodily fluids from leaking into the external environment at the burial site of euthanized animals.

[0007] This invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and aims to provide a method for disposing of animals that can prevent infectious organic waste from leaking out of burial sites. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The characteristic configuration of the animal processing method according to the present invention, which solves the above problems, is as follows: The excavation process involves digging a burial hole in the ground for animal disposal, A forming step of forming a watertight layer at least at the bottom of the aforementioned burial hole, The process involves introducing animals and a water-absorbing agent into the burial hole where the water-impermeable layer has been formed. The backfilling process involves filling the aforementioned burial hole with soil and sand, The purpose is to include it.

[0009] According to this method of animal disposal, a waterproof layer is formed at least at the bottom of the burial pit, so the flow of bodily fluids seeping from the animals placed in the burial pit and attempting to penetrate to the bottom of the pit can be temporarily blocked by the waterproof layer. While the flow of bodily fluids is blocked by the waterproof layer, the bodily fluids can be absorbed by the water-absorbing agent. Therefore, it is possible to prevent infectious organic waste derived from animal bodily fluids from leaking out at the burial site. In addition, since it is possible to bury the euthanized animals directly, the amount of work can be reduced, for example, by eliminating the need to lay down blue tarpaulins, which was commonly done in the past, thus offering the advantage of good workability.

[0010] In the animal processing method according to the present invention, The aforementioned input step preferably includes an alternating input step in which the animals and the water-absorbing agent are added alternately.

[0011] According to this method of processing animals, since animals and absorbent materials are added alternately, it is possible to distribute the absorbent material evenly to each animal without bias. As a result, bodily fluids seeping from the animals are reliably absorbed and retained by the absorbent material, and the leakage of infectious organic waste derived from animal bodily fluids can be reliably prevented.

[0012] In the animal processing method according to the present invention, The aforementioned water-impermeable layer preferably contains a superabsorbent polymer.

[0013] According to the animal processing method described herein, a stable water-impermeable layer can be formed using a superabsorbent polymer with excellent water absorption and retention capabilities.

[0014] In the animal processing method according to the present invention, The superabsorbent polymer is preferably in powder form.

[0015] According to the method for treating animals of this configuration, since the superabsorbent polymer is a powdery polymer, it has a large specific surface area, so it has excellent dispersibility and can easily form a more uniform and stable water barrier layer.

[0016] In the method for treating animals according to the present invention, Preferably, the water barrier layer further contains a dispersant.

[0017] According to the method for treating animals of this configuration, even if the operation of leveling the superabsorbent polymer with respect to the bottom of the burial hole is not performed, by simply adding the dispersant together with the superabsorbent polymer, the dispersibility with respect to the bottom of the burial hole can be improved, and a homogeneous water barrier layer can be easily formed with respect to the bottom of the burial hole.

[0018] In the method for treating animals according to the present invention, Preferably, the ratio (a / b) of the mass (a) of the superabsorbent polymer forming the water barrier layer to the mass (b) of the dispersant is 30 / 70 or more.

[0019] According to the method for treating animals of this configuration, since the ratio (a / b) is set to 30 / 70 or more, the dispersibility can be improved while ensuring the required water barrier performance.

[0020] In the method for treating animals according to the present invention, Preferably, the dispersant is a poorly soluble inorganic substance.

[0021] According to the method for treating animals of this configuration, in the water barrier layer formed by containing a dispersant together with the superabsorbent polymer, since the dispersant is a poorly soluble inorganic substance, it is possible to prevent the collapse of the water barrier layer caused by the dissolution of the dispersant in the water contained in the soil of the burial hole.

[0022] In the method for treating animals according to the present invention, The water absorbent contains a superabsorbent polymer, The amount of superabsorbent polymer used is preferably 15 g or more per 1 kg of animal if the superabsorbent polymer is a granular polymer, 19 g or more if the superabsorbent polymer is a fine granular polymer, and 25 g or more if the superabsorbent polymer is a powdered polymer.

[0023] According to the animal processing method described herein, in the case of granular, microgranular, and powdery superabsorbent polymers contained in the absorbent agent, if the amount of superabsorbent polymer used satisfies the above conditions, the absorbent agent can reliably retain the body fluids absorbed by the absorbent even if pressure is applied by covering soil after the burial hole has been backfilled with soil. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0024] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is an explanatory diagram of a method for processing discarded pigs according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is an explanatory diagram of a method for processing discarded pigs according to the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is an explanatory diagram of the water-impermeableness evaluation test apparatus. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is an explanatory diagram of the water absorption evaluation test apparatus. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is an explanatory diagram of the water absorption evaluation test conducted at different positions of absorbent. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0025] Embodiments of the animal processing method of the present invention will now be described. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below. In this specification, "animal" broadly refers to mammals other than fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and humans, and narrowly refers to livestock such as cattle, pigs, chickens, sheep, and goats that are raised and managed by humans.

[0026] In processing euthanized animals, the inventors investigated various methods to prevent the leakage of infectious organic waste at burial sites. They discovered that by forming a waterproof layer at the bottom of the burial hole, the flow of bodily fluids seeping from the animals can be temporarily blocked by the waterproof layer. While the flow of bodily fluids is blocked by the waterproof layer, the bodily fluids can be absorbed by an absorbent. This allows for the direct burial of animals while preventing the leakage of infectious organic waste originating from animal bodily fluids at the burial site, thus completing the present invention.

[0027] <Waterproof layer> In the animal processing method of the present invention, the water-impermeable layer preferably contains a superabsorbent polymer. Since superabsorbent polymers have excellent water absorption and water retention capabilities, they can form a stable water-impermeable layer. Examples of superabsorbent polymers include polyacrylic acid polymers, polymethacrylic acid polymers, polyvinyl acetate polymers, polyvinyl alcohol polymers, and carboxymethylcellulose polymers. Among these, a preferred superabsorbent polymer is sodium polyacrylate, which is a typical polyacrylic acid polymer.

[0028] The superabsorbent polymer that forms the water-impermeable layer may be in any form: granular (particle size: over 300 μm and up to 600 μm), fine granular (particle size: over 125 μm and up to 300 μm), or powder (particle size: 125 μm or less). However, it is preferable to use a powdered superabsorbent polymer because it has good dispersibility and excellent biodegradability. Because powdered superabsorbent polymers have a large specific surface area, they have excellent dispersibility and can easily form a more uniform and stable water-impermeable layer. The particle size of the superabsorbent polymer can be adjusted by sieving.

[0029] The lower limit for the amount of superabsorbent polymer used to form the water-impermeable layer is 0.3 g / cm³. 2 Therefore, considering the stability of the water-blocking performance, 0.45 g / cm³ 2 It is preferable that the above conditions are met.

[0030] <Dispersant> The impermeable layer preferably further contains a dispersant, from the viewpoint of eliminating the need to perform an operation to level the superabsorbent polymer. The dispersant is preferably a poorly soluble inorganic substance, from the viewpoint of preventing the impermeable layer from collapsing due to dissolution in water and maintaining stability in soil. Examples of poorly soluble inorganic substances include calcium carbonate, silica sand, stone powder (inorganic filler), obsidian perlite, etc., and one or more of these can be used.

[0031] In a superabsorbent polymer and dispersant forming a water-impermeable layer, from the viewpoint of improving dispersibility while ensuring the necessary water-impermeable performance, the ratio (a / b) of the mass of the superabsorbent polymer (a) to the mass of the dispersant (b) is preferably 30 / 70 or more. The upper limit of the ratio (a / b) is not particularly limited, as long as the dispersant is included in the water-impermeable layer, but it is preferably 70 / 30 or less, and more preferably 50 / 50 or less.

[0032] <Absorbent> In the animal treatment method of the present invention, the absorbent preferably contains a superabsorbent polymer. The superabsorbent polymer can be the same as those listed as specific examples of superabsorbent polymers used in the impermeable layer.

[0033] In this case, the amount of superabsorbent polymer used is preferably 15 g or more per 1 kg of animal if the superabsorbent polymer is granular, 19 g or more if the superabsorbent polymer is fine granular, and 25 g or more if the superabsorbent polymer is powdered. From the viewpoint of further stabilizing water absorption, it is more preferable that the amount of superabsorbent polymer used is 19 g or more per 1 kg of animal if the superabsorbent polymer is granular, 23 g or more if the superabsorbent polymer is fine granular, and 29 g or more if the superabsorbent polymer is powdered. By satisfying the above conditions for the amount of superabsorbent polymer used, the absorbent can reliably retain the body fluids absorbed by the absorbent even if pressure is applied by covering soil after the burial hole has been backfilled with soil.

[0034] The water absorption ratio of the superabsorbent polymer used as an absorbent is preferably 100 to 1000 times its own weight, and more preferably 200 to 600 times, when absorbing pure water. If the water absorption ratio of the superabsorbent polymer is above the lower limit of the above range, it can reliably absorb bodily fluids seeping from the animal. Furthermore, if the water absorption ratio of the superabsorbent polymer is below the upper limit of the above range, for example, when an animal is buried, even if external moisture such as rainwater seeps into the burial site, it is possible to prevent the superabsorbent polymer from swelling excessively due to water absorption.

[0035] The molecular weight of superabsorbent polymers used as absorbents is 3.0 × 10⁻⁶, expressed as weight-average molecular weight (Mw). 4 ~1.0×10 6 It is preferable that the superabsorbent polymer has a molecular weight within the above range, as this ensures that it reliably absorbs bodily fluids seeping from animals without excessive swelling due to absorption, making it easy to handle. The weight-average molecular weight (Mw) of the superabsorbent polymer can be determined in polystyrene equivalent by measurement using gel permeation chromatography (GPC).

[0036] <Methods for processing animals> The animal processing method of the present invention includes an excavation step, a formation step, a loading step, and a backfilling step. The animal processing method of the present invention will be described below with reference to the figures. However, the present invention is not intended to be limited to the configuration described below. In the following, as an example of the animals to be processed, discarded pigs that have been culled due to infections such as African swine fever that have occurred on farms will be used in the description. In addition, in actual animal processing, a slaked lime spreading step is appropriately performed at the time of burial for disinfection purposes, but the slaked lime spreading step will be omitted in the following description.

[0037] [First Embodiment] Figure 1 is an explanatory diagram of the disposal method for waste pigs 4 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. In Figure 1, (a) is the excavation process, (b) is the formation process, (c) is the input process, and (d) is the backfilling process.

[0038] <Excavation Process> As shown in Figure 1(a), in the excavation process, a burial hole 1 (approximately 4m wide x 4m deep) for the disposal of the discarded pigs 4 is dug in the ground level (GL) of the land (burial site) where the discarded pigs 4 will be buried, using heavy machinery such as a backhoe (not shown). The soil and sand 2 generated by the excavation of burial hole 1 are temporarily placed near burial hole 1. The GL of the burial site is usually secured at the farm where the waste was generated or in its vicinity (limited to a place that is not close to houses, water sources, rivers, and roads, and is not approached by people and pigs on a daily basis).

[0039] <Formation process> As shown in Figure 1(b), in the formation process, a watertight layer 3 is formed at least at the bottom of the burial hole 1. The watertight layer 3 is formed by either pouring the superabsorbent polymer alone towards the bottom of the burial hole 1, or by pouring the dispersant together with the superabsorbent polymer towards the bottom of the burial hole 1. In both cases, whether the superabsorbent polymer alone or the dispersant together with the superabsorbent polymer is poured towards the bottom of the burial hole 1, the operation of leveling the poured materials (superabsorbent polymer, dispersant) can be simplified or omitted from the viewpoint of improving work efficiency.

[0040] <Input process> As shown in Figure 1(c), in the loading process, the discarded pigs 4 and the absorbent 5 are loaded into the burial hole 1 where the waterproof layer 3 has been formed. In this example, the discarded pigs 4 and the absorbent 5 are loaded alternately in the order of discarded pigs 4, absorbent 5, discarded pigs 4, absorbent 5, ... (alternating loading process). By loading the discarded pigs 4 and the absorbent 5 alternately in this way, it is possible to distribute the absorbent 5 evenly to the loaded discarded pigs 4 without bias. In this way, the bodily fluids seeping from the discarded pigs 4 are reliably absorbed and retained by the absorbent 5, and the leakage of infectious organic waste originating from the bodily fluids of the discarded pigs 4 can be reliably prevented. In addition, there is also a configuration in which the absorbent 5 and the discarded pigs 4 are loaded alternately in the order of absorbent 5, discarded pigs 4, absorbent 5, discarded pigs 4, ...

[0041] <Backfilling process> As shown in Figure 1(d), in the backfilling process, the burial hole 1 is backfilled with soil 2. The soil 2 used to backfill the burial hole 1 is the soil 2 generated in the excavation process. This allows for the effective reuse of soil 2. Furthermore, since the same soil is handled in both the excavation and backfilling processes, the properties of the land where the discarded pigs 4 are processed remain unchanged, allowing for safe and appropriate processing. It is preferable not to compact the backfilled soil 2 in order to avoid crushing the discarded pigs 4 buried in the soil due to pressure.

[0042] According to the first embodiment described above, since a waterproof layer 3 is formed at least at the bottom of the burial hole 1, the flow of bodily fluids seeping from the discarded pigs 4 placed in the burial hole 1 and attempting to penetrate to the bottom of the burial hole 1 can be temporarily blocked by the waterproof layer 3. While the flow of bodily fluids is blocked by the waterproof layer 3, the bodily fluids can be absorbed by the water-absorbing agent 5. Therefore, it is possible to prevent infectious organic waste derived from the bodily fluids of the discarded pigs 4 from leaking out at the burial site. In addition, since it is possible to bury the discarded pigs 4 directly, the amount of work can be reduced, for example, by eliminating the need to lay down blue sheets, which was commonly done in the past, thus offering the advantage of good workability.

[0043] [Second Embodiment] Figure 2 is an explanatory diagram of the disposal method for discarded pigs 4 according to the second embodiment of the present invention. In Figure 2, (a) is the excavation process, (b) is the formation process, (c) is the input process, and (d) is the backfilling process. The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the content of the input process, but the other processes are basically the same as those in the first embodiment. Therefore, in the second embodiment, parts that are the same as or similar to those in the first embodiment are simply denoted by the same reference numerals in the figure, and their detailed explanation is omitted. The following explanation will focus on the input process.

[0044] In the first embodiment, an example was shown in which the waste pigs 4 and absorbent 5 were added alternately in the input process in the order of waste pigs 4, absorbent 5, waste pigs 4, absorbent 5, ... In the second embodiment, in the input process shown in Figure 2(c), the waste pigs 4 and absorbent 5 are added simultaneously. Here, "adding simultaneously" is not limited to the case in which the waste pigs 4 and absorbent 5 are added to the burial hole 1 at exactly the same time, but also includes, for example, the case in which the waste pigs 4 are coated with absorbent 5 and then added to the burial hole 1. Alternatively, the waste pigs 4 and absorbent 5 may be added simultaneously, and then the absorbent 5 may be added / sprayed at the end to form an absorbent layer of absorbent 5 on the top layer.

[0045] It goes without saying that the same effects and advantages as the first embodiment can be obtained with the second embodiment described above. Furthermore, according to the second embodiment, when the discarded pigs 4 are placed into the burial hole 1, the discarded pigs 4 are placed in at the same time as the absorbent 5, so the absorbent 5 adheres evenly to the entire surface of the discarded pigs 4, and if bodily fluids seep out from the discarded pigs 4, the bodily fluids can be absorbed more reliably by the absorbent 5 adhering to the discarded pigs 4.

[0046] Although the animal processing method of the present invention has been described above based on several embodiments, the present invention is not limited to the configuration described in the above embodiments, and its configuration can be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the invention. [Examples]

[0047] To confirm the effectiveness of the animal treatment method of the present invention, water-impermeableness evaluation tests and water-absorbing evaluation tests, as well as water-impermeableness and water-absorbing evaluation tests at different positions of absorbent addition, were conducted. These tests are described below.

[0048] Table 1 shows the test samples and their specifications used in the water-impermeableness evaluation test and the water-absorbing evaluation test, as well as the water-impermeableness and water-absorbing evaluation tests based on the position of the absorbent.

[0049] [Table 1]

[0050] First, the apparatus and test method used in the water-impermeability evaluation test will be described below.

[0051] <Water-impermeable evaluation test device> Figure 3 is an explanatory diagram of the water-impermeableness evaluation test apparatus 10. In Figure 3, (a) is an explanatory diagram of the structure of the apparatus body 11 of the water-impermeableness evaluation test apparatus 10, (b) is a diagram showing the state after the simulated formation process has been carried out, and (c) is a diagram showing the state after the simulated filling process and the simulated backfilling process have been carried out.

[0052] As shown in Figure 3(a), the water-impermeable evaluation test apparatus 10 includes an apparatus body 11 that simulates the ground level (GL) of the burial site, including the burial hole 1. The apparatus body 11 includes a large-diameter pipe 12, a conversion joint 13, a small-diameter pipe 14, and an on-off valve 15. The large-diameter pipe 12 extends to open in the vertical direction and simulates the inner side wall (hole wall) of the burial hole 1. The conversion joint 13, the small-diameter pipe 14, the on-off valve 15, and the small-diameter pipe 14 are detachably connected in order to the lower end of the large-diameter pipe 12.

[0053] The device body 11 further includes a support portion 20 filled at the lower end of the large-diameter pipe material 12, and a water-permeable portion 25 that is placed on the support portion 20 and filled at a position near the lower end of the large-diameter pipe material 12. The support portion 20 is equipped with a drainage tray 21 having the required water passage holes 21a, and a metal mesh 22 supported by the drainage tray 21 to prevent the falling of the No. 4 silica sand described later, and is configured to support the water-permeable portion 25 from below so that liquid flowing down through the water-permeable portion 25 can pass through. The water-permeable portion 25 simulates the water-permeable layer (permeable layer) in the burial site GL including the burial hole 1 using No. 4 silica sand.

[0054] Table 2 shows the materials, specifications, etc., for each component of the main body of the device 11.

[0055] [Table 2]

[0056] As shown in Figure 3(c), in the water-impermeable evaluation test apparatus 10, the large-diameter pipe material 12 (inner diameter: 72 mm, inner diameter area 40.7 cm²) in the apparatus body 11 2 Within the burial hole 1, a sponge 30 soaked in 0.9% saline solution is used to simulate the gradual seepage of bodily fluids from the discarded pig 4 due to the weight of the covering soil, etc., and a weight 40 is used to simulate the missing weight and the weight of the covering soil in the simulation.

[0057] Table 3 shows the specifications for sponge 30 and weight 40.

[0058] [Table 3]

[0059] Based on the disease prevention manuals of several local governments, the following are the anticipated burial conditions. <Assumed burial conditions> (1) The weight of the discarded pigs to be buried shall be 75 kg / head. (2) The amount of slaked lime to be used is 1 kg / m at the bottom of the burial hole. 2 Let's assume that. (3) The volume of the burial hole shall be 75m in length, 4m in width, and 4m in depth. (4) The amount to be buried shall be 5,000 discarded pigs. (5) The contaminated liquid leaking from actual burial sites contains bodily fluids from discarded pigs, etc., and is mixed with infectious organic waste and soil, making it difficult to accurately simulate the contaminated liquid. Therefore, it will be simulated using 0.9% saline solution (physiological saline). (6) Regarding the body fluid volume of discarded pigs, based on the relationship between the volume after rendering (heat treatment) (90%) and the liquid volume after rendering (70%), the water content of discarded pigs is assumed to be 63% of the weight of the discarded pigs (0.9 × 0.7 × 100). (7) It is assumed that a topsoil (embankment) up to 2m in height will be constructed, and the topsoil will be simulated using decomposed granite soil (bulk density 1.6).

[0060] The bottom 1 cm of the burial hole estimated based on the above conditions (1) to (7) 2The weight applied per unit area is determined as follows.

[0061]

Number

[0062] The amount of moisture present per 1 cm² of the bottom surface of the landfill hole estimated based on the above conditions (1) to (7) is determined as follows. 2 The amount of moisture present per unit area is determined as follows.

[0063]

Number

[0064] In the water barrier property evaluation test conducted using the water barrier property evaluation test apparatus 10 based on the above assumed landfill conditions, the assumed amount of moisture of the discarded pigs (0.9% saline solution) present in the inner diameter area (40.7 cm²) of the large-diameter pipe material 12 is determined as follows. 2 ) is determined as follows.

[0065]

Number

[0066] In the same water barrier property evaluation test, the assumed total weight of the weight due to the mass other than the assumed moisture of the discarded pigs applied to the inner diameter area (40.7 cm²) of the large-diameter pipe material 12 and the weight of the overburden is determined as follows. 2 ) is determined as follows.

[0067]

Number

[0068] The above assumed total weight (about 2 kg) is simulated by the weight of the sponge 30 (about 1 kg) and the weight of the weight 40 (about 1 kg).

[0069] <Water Barrier Property Evaluation Test> In actual burial pits, it is assumed that chemicals will be introduced from above. Therefore, in the water-impermeable evaluation test, the chemicals will simply be introduced from the top of the large-diameter pipe material 12, and no operation to level them uniformly will be performed.

[0070] To avoid reducing the volume of the burial site and to prevent the burial site from becoming impermeable (to avoid pooling during 3 years of storage), it is necessary to minimize the thickness of the impermeable layer, that is, to minimize the amount of impermeable agent added to form the impermeable layer. In preliminary tests, a powdered superabsorbent polymer, one of the samples of impermeable agents, formed a functionally sufficient impermeable layer even with an amount equivalent to a layer thickness of 0.75 cm, so this will be used as the standard for evaluating impermeability.

[0071] <Procedure for water-impermeability evaluation test> (1) Inside the large-diameter pipe material 12 of the device body 11, which has a support section 20 and a water-permeable section 25, 1 kg / m³ of slaked lime (SL) is added. 2 Add the equivalent amount (4.1g) and the sample of the water-blocking agent (SSP) in that order (see Figure 3(b)). (2) Prepare 3.21 L of 0.9% saline solution. (3) The solution prepared in (2) above is absorbed to some extent by the sponge pieces 30a, and then introduced into the large-diameter pipe material 12 of the apparatus body 11. At this time, in order to avoid the sponge pieces 30a getting stuck inside the large-diameter pipe material 12, the sponge pieces 30a are introduced one to two at a time (see Figure 3(c)). (4) After adding 3.21 L of solution and 1 kg of sponge pieces 30a, a drain plate (φ74) with its drainage holes sealed to ensure uniform pressure is set as the base plate 35, and a weight 40 (1 kg) simulating the weight of the covering soil is slowly placed on top of the base plate 35. (5) The shut-off valve 15 is opened, and the amount of drainage (water permeability) from the lower end of the small-diameter pipe material 12 is measured after 10 minutes and after 60 minutes.

[0072] <Evaluation Criteria for Water-Repellency Evaluation Tests> The standard water permeability is defined as the water permeability after 10 minutes (1700 mL (average value of n=3)) when no sample of the impermeable agent (SSP) is added (blank). If the water permeability measured in (5) above is 1% or less of the standard water permeability, it is evaluated as "A". If it is more than 1% but 10% or less of the standard water permeability, it is evaluated as "B". If it is more than 10% of the standard water permeability, it is evaluated as "C".

[0073] Table 4 shows the results of water-impermeableness evaluation tests when each sample was introduced in an amount equivalent to a 0.75 cm layer thickness (calculated from bulk density) as a test subject sample (SSP) for the water-impermeable agent. The following materials were prepared: granular superabsorbent polymer, powdered superabsorbent polymer, bentonite, pulp, sawdust, fine granular calcium carbonate, powdered calcium carbonate, silica sand No. 7, silica sand No. 8, stone powder (inorganic filler), obsidian perlite, kagalite, and agglomerating polymer (anionic polymer flocculant).

[0074] [Table 4]

[0075] As shown in Table 4, the measured water permeability after 10 minutes and 60 minutes showed that the granular water-absorbing polymer of Example 1-1, the powdered water-absorbing polymer of Example 1-2, and the agglomerating polymer of Reference Example 1-1 exhibited excellent water-blocking performance. However, in the case of the agglomerating polymer of Reference Example 1-1, the entire interior became slimy and turned into a viscous liquid, which may hinder the effectiveness of absorbents sprayed in subsequent processes and have adverse effects on the environment. Therefore, the final evaluation was "C".

[0076] It is believed that a superabsorbent polymer can immediately absorb water and provide waterproofing even with an addition amount equivalent to a layer thickness of 0.75 cm. There was no significant difference in the test results between the granular superabsorbent polymer of Example 1-1 and the powdered superabsorbent polymer of Example 1-2. However, the powdered superabsorbent polymer of Example 1-2 has a smaller particle size than the granular superabsorbent polymer of Example 1-1, resulting in better dispersibility on the surface (upper surface) of the permeable section 25 corresponding to the bottom of the burial hole. Furthermore, its biodegradability is superior to that of the granular superabsorbent polymer of Example 1, making it the most suitable for forming a temporary waterproofing layer. Regarding the powdered superabsorbent polymer of Example 1-2, observation of its state after the waterproofing evaluation test revealed that some parts remained in powder form without contact with water. This suggests that the proportion can be reduced by using a dispersant.

[0077] Compared to Examples 1-1 and 1-2 described above, Comparative Examples 1-1 to 1-10 all showed almost the same water permeability as the blank (when no sample (SSP) was added) within 10 minutes of placing the weight 40. Even with bentonite, which is commonly used as a waterproofing agent in Comparative Example 1-1, it was not possible to form a waterproofing layer with an amount equivalent to a layer thickness of 0.75 cm, nor was it possible to swell in a short time. Therefore, it is thought that it was unable to demonstrate waterproofing performance in this waterproofing evaluation test.

[0078] Next, Table 5 shows the evaluation results of water-impermeability when the assumed layer thickness was changed for each sample of water-impermeable agent that showed the best water-impermeability (powdered superabsorbent polymer of Example 1-2).

[0079] [Table 5]

[0080] As shown in Table 5, in Examples 2-1 and 2-2, where the layer thickness was 0.8 to 1.0 cm, the water-impermeability evaluation was "A", and in Example 2-3, where the layer thickness was 0.5 cm, the water-impermeability evaluation was "B". In contrast, in Comparative Example 2-1, where the layer thickness was 0.3 cm, the water-impermeability evaluation was "C". From these results, it can be concluded that the amount of additive equivalent to a layer thickness of 0.5 cm (0.3 g / cm) 2 It was found that ) is the lower limit for forming a waterproof layer. However, in Examples 2-3, the amount of water permeability increased slightly after 60 minutes, so considering safety, an additive amount equivalent to a layer thickness of 0.75 cm (0.45 g / cm²) is considered appropriate. 2 It is preferable that the value be greater than or equal to )

[0081] Although the powdered superabsorbent polymer is superior as a water-blocking agent based on the water-blocking evaluation test results of the water-blocking agent alone (see Table 4), the actual amount required can be inferred from the appearance of the water-blocking layer after the water-blocking evaluation test (the part that remains in powder form and has not yet come into contact with water). Therefore, Table 6 shows the water-blocking evaluation results when powdered calcium carbonate of the same particle size is used as a dispersant and the ratio of the mass of the water-blocking agent (a) to the mass of the dispersant (b) (a / b) is gradually reduced.

[0082] [Table 6]

[0083] As shown in Table 6, a sufficient impermeable layer was formed even in Example 3-2 with a ratio (a / b) of 30 / 70. However, in Comparative Example 3-1 with a ratio (a / b) of 10 / 90, water permeated without forming an impermeable layer, so it is considered that the lower limit of the ratio (a / b) is 30 / 70. The reason for adding a dispersant rather than reducing the amount of powdered superabsorbent polymer added is as follows: In actual burial, it is assumed that materials such as impermeable agents are simply poured in from above the burial hole, and that no operation is performed to level the poured materials. Therefore, if the amount of impermeable agent (powdered superabsorbent polymer) added is reduced, there is a risk that a sufficient impermeable layer will not be formed, and it is preferable to use a dispersant to improve dispersibility.

[0084] From the results in Table 6, it was confirmed that the lower limit of the ratio (a / b) is 30 / 70. Therefore, Table 7 shows the evaluation results of water impermeability when the ratio (a / b) is fixed at 30 / 70 and the type of dispersant is changed.

[0085] [Table 7]

[0086] As shown in Table 7, in Examples 4-1 to 4-6, where poorly soluble inorganic materials were used as dispersants, the water-impermeable layer was evaluated as "A" or "B". In contrast, Comparative Example 4-1, which used slaked lime as a dispersant, and Comparative Example 4-2, which used kagalite as a dispersant, both received a water-impermeable layer evaluation of "C". In Comparative Example 4-1, which used slaked lime as a dispersant, some degree of water impermeability was achieved after 10 minutes, but it collapsed after 60 minutes, suggesting that the impermeable layer collapsed due to the dissolution of slaked lime in water. In Comparative Example 4-2, which used kagalite with relatively large particle sizes (particle size: over 300 μm and up to 600 μm) as a dispersant, the amount of water permeability increased after 10 minutes. This suggests that the impermeable layer was not formed because of the large particle size and high water permeability. Therefore, the required physical properties for a dispersant are that it is poorly soluble and has a particle size of 300 μm or less. Furthermore, in Reference Example 4-1, where a granular superabsorbent polymer was used instead of a powdered superabsorbent polymer as a water-blocking agent, a sufficient water-blocking layer was formed. Therefore, it is considered that superabsorbent polymers used as water-blocking agents can be used regardless of their particle size.

[0087] <Water Absorption Evaluation Testing Equipment> Figure 4 is an explanatory diagram of the water absorption evaluation test apparatus 50. As shown in Figure 4, the water absorption evaluation test apparatus 50 has a container section 60 which is formed by erecting a peripheral wall section 62 on a bottom section 61 which has a drain port 61a on the bottom side. The container section 60 is made using the container part of the "Simple Filtration Test Machine" manufactured by Kansai Kiki Seisakusho Co., Ltd. The lower part of the container section 60 is filled with a support section 70 made of metal mesh. In the water absorption evaluation test apparatus 50, a sample of the absorbent material after water absorption (KSP) is placed on the support section 70 inside the container section 60, and a weight 80 can be placed on the sample (KSP) via a base plate 75.

[0088] In the water absorption evaluation test, the permeable water discharged from the drain outlet 61a simulates a dirty liquid containing bodily fluids seeping from discarded pigs, so 0.13% (1 kg / m³) is added to 0.9% saline solution. 2The solution prepared by adding and stirring (assuming) the required amount of slaked lime will be used as the target for absorption by the absorbent. For each sample of the absorbent (KSP), the amount of additive required to completely absorb the liquid will be determined by visual inspection. The dewatering amount will be evaluated based on the weight of the liquid seeping out by applying pressure with a weight 80, simulating the pressure acting on the burial site due to the covering soil, etc.

[0089] <Procedure for water absorption evaluation test> (1) Add an arbitrary amount of each absorbent sample (KSP) to 500 mL of the target solution (0.9% saline solution + 0.13% slaked lime). Then, visually check the appearance of the solution after adding the sample. If no syneresis is observed, evaluate it as "A", and if syneresis is observed, evaluate it as "C". (2) Take 200g of the sample (KSP) that has visibly lost its moisture in (1) above, put it into the container section 60 of the water absorption evaluation test apparatus 50, and place it on the support section 70. (3) After the sample is placed, the weight 80 is gently placed on the base plate 75.

[0090] <Evaluation Criteria for Water Absorption Test> The amount of dewatering is measured based on the weight of the liquid seeping out of the sample (KSP) under pressure from the weight 80. If the amount is 5% (10 mL) or less, it is evaluated as "A"; if it is between 5% and 10% (20 mL), it is evaluated as "B"; and if it is greater than 10%, it is evaluated as "C".

[0091] For those with an evaluation of "A" or "B", the amount of absorbent Q [g] required per 1 kg of discarded pig is calculated as follows, assuming a moisture content of 630 [mL] per 1 kg of discarded pig, an amount of absorbent sample (KSP) added as M [g], and a total liquid volume of 500 [mL] for this test. Q = (630 × M) / 500

[0092] Table 8 shows the evaluation results of the appearance, water absorption, etc., after adding the absorbent sample.

[0093] [Table 8]

[0094] As shown in Table 8, the results from Examples 5-1 to 5-6 indicate that the amount of superabsorbent polymer used as a water absorbent is preferably 15 g or more per 1 kg of waste pig if the superabsorbent polymer is in granular form, 19 g or more if the superabsorbent polymer is in fine granular form, and 25 g or more if the superabsorbent polymer is in powder form. It was found that the pulp in Comparative Examples 5-4 to 5-6 and the sawdust in Comparative Examples 5-7 to 5-9 are unsuitable for use as absorbents because they require a large amount due to capillary action and easily discharge water under pressure.

[0095] <Evaluation tests of water absorption and other properties based on the position of absorbent material> Figure 5 is an explanatory diagram of the water absorption evaluation test at different positions of absorbent addition. In Figure 5, (a) is a diagram showing the state when the absorbent is added to the bottom layer, (b) is a diagram showing the state when the absorbent is added to the middle layer, and (c) is a diagram showing the state when the absorbent is added to the top layer.

[0096] As shown in Figures 5(a) to (c), the water-impermeableness evaluation test apparatus 10 is used to select either powdered superabsorbent polymer alone or a mixture of 30% powdered superabsorbent polymer and 70% powdered calcium carbonate as the water-impermeable agent, and granular superabsorbent polymer as the absorbent agent. The amount of absorbent added per 1 kg of discarded pig is divided into two cases: 15 g and 19 g. Furthermore, the position where the absorbent is added is divided into the bottom layer, middle layer and top layer, and the water-impermeability and water retention based on the amount of residual water are evaluated.

[0097] <Procedure for evaluating water absorption based on the placement of the absorbent> The test procedure is as follows. (1) Inside the large-diameter pipe material 12 of the device body 11, which has a support section 20 and a water-permeable section 25, 1 kg / m³ of slaked lime (SL) is added. 2 Add the appropriate amount (4.1g) followed by the water-blocking agent sample (SSP). If adding the absorbent sample (KSP) to the bottom layer, add the absorbent sample (KSP) after the water-blocking agent sample (SSP) (see Figure 5(a)). (2) Prepare 3.21 L of 0.9% saline solution. (3) The solution prepared in (2) above is absorbed to some extent by the sponge pieces 30a and then introduced into the large-diameter pipe material 12 of the apparatus body 11. At this time, in order to avoid the sponge pieces 30a getting stuck inside the large-diameter pipe material 12, the sponge pieces 30a are introduced one to two at a time. When introducing the absorbent sample (KSP) to the middle layer, the absorbent sample (KSP) is introduced when about half of the sponge pieces 30a have been introduced (see Figure 5(b)), and when introducing the absorbent sample (KSP) to the top layer, the absorbent sample (KSP) is introduced after all of the sponge pieces 30a have been introduced (see Figure 5(c)). (4) After adding 3.21 L of solution and 1 kg of sponge pieces 30a, set a drain plate (φ74) with the water passage holes blocked as a base plate 35 so that the pressure is applied evenly, and slowly place a weight 40 (1 kg) which simulates the weight of the covering soil, etc., onto the base plate 35. (5) The shut-off valve 15 is opened, and the amount of drainage (water permeability) from the lower end of the small-diameter pipe material 14 is measured after 10 minutes and after 60 minutes. (6) While lightly holding down the weight 40 with a suitable member, the entire water-impermeable evaluation test apparatus 10 is turned upside down to measure the amount of residual liquid inside the large-diameter pipe material 12.

[0098] <Evaluation criteria for water-impermeable properties based on the location of absorbent addition> The standard water permeability is defined as the water permeability after 10 minutes (1700 mL (average value for n=3)) when no sample of the water-blocking agent (SSP) is added (blank). If the water permeability is 1% or less of the standard water permeability, it is evaluated as "A". If it is more than 1% but 10% or less of the standard water permeability, it is evaluated as "B". If it is more than 10% of the standard water permeability, it is evaluated as "C".

[0099] <Evaluation criteria for water absorption by location of absorbent addition> If the residual liquid volume is 5% or less of the standard permeability (1700 mL), it will be evaluated as "A"; if it is between 5% and 10%, it will be evaluated as "B"; and if it is greater than 10%, it will be evaluated as "C".

[0100] <Comprehensive evaluation criteria for water-blocking and water-absorbing properties based on the location of absorbent addition> For the overall evaluation, if both the water-impermeable and water-absorbent properties are rated "A", the overall evaluation will be "A". If either water-impermeable or water-absorbent is rated "A" and the other is rated "B", or both are rated "B", the overall evaluation will be "B". If both water-impermeable and water-absorbent are rated "C", or either one is rated "C", the overall evaluation will be "C".

[0101] Table 9 shows the evaluation results of water-blocking and water-absorbing properties at different positions where the absorbent is added.

[0102] [Table 9]

[0103] As shown in Table 9, Examples 6-1 to 6-8 yielded excellent results in terms of water impermeability and water absorption. No problems were observed with respect to water impermeability in Comparative Examples 6-1 to 6-4. However, in Comparative Examples 6-1 to 6-4, where the absorbent was added to the bottom layer, sufficient absorbency was not confirmed. This is presumed to be because the liquid in the upper layer remained behind, hindered by multiple sponge pieces 30a intertwined inside the large-diameter pipe material 12. Since a similar situation is expected during actual burial, it is considered more preferable to add the absorbent in separate layers above the bottom layer.

[0104] Based on the results of the above tests, the following conclusions were reached. (1) By absorbing bodily fluids seeping from animals (such as discarded pigs) with an absorbent while a temporary waterproof layer is formed by the waterproofing agent, it is possible to effectively prevent the leakage of infectious organic waste originating from animal bodily fluids at the animal burial site. Furthermore, since it is possible to bury euthanized animals directly, the amount of work can be reduced, for example by eliminating the need to lay down blue tarpaulins, which was commonly done in the past, thus offering the advantage of good workability. (2) The waterproofing agent does not need to be spread completely and uniformly in the burial hole; a temporary waterproofing layer can be formed by pouring it in from above the burial hole. (3) By using a superabsorbent polymer as a water-blocking agent, the amount added can be significantly reduced compared to bentonite, which has been commonly used as a water-blocking agent in the past. Moreover, it is expected that the soil will gradually return to its original permeable state over time. (4) By using a superabsorbent polymer as a waterproofing agent, the bodily fluids can be retained even when pressure is applied by the covering soil, thus preventing immediate leakage of bodily fluids after burial. (5) The superabsorbent polymer used as a water-blocking agent is more preferably in powder form. (6) The superabsorbent polymer used as a water-blocking agent shall be in an amount equivalent to a thickness of 0.5 cm or more (0.3 g / cm²) calculated from its bulk density. 2 ) is required, and an amount equivalent to a thickness of 0.75 cm or more (0.45 g / cm²) is needed. 2 It is more preferable that it be ) (7) The superabsorbent polymer used as a water-blocking agent may be used in a reduced ratio with a dispersant, in which case the ratio (a / b) of the mass of the superabsorbent polymer (a) to the mass of the dispersant (b) is preferably 30 / 70 or more. (8) The dispersant is preferably an inorganic substance that is poorly soluble and has a particle size of 300 μm or less, and more preferably a powder (200 μm or less). (9) The superabsorbent polymer used as an absorbent is more preferably in granular form. (10) The amount of superabsorbent polymer used as an absorbent agent is preferably 15 g or more per 1 kg of animal if the superabsorbent polymer is a granular polymer, 19 g or more if the superabsorbent polymer is a fine granular polymer, and 25 g or more if the superabsorbent polymer is a powder polymer. More preferably, 19 g or more if the superabsorbent polymer is a granular polymer, 23 g or more if the superabsorbent polymer is a fine granular polymer, and 29 g or more if the superabsorbent polymer is a powder polymer. (11) The absorbent is preferably applied to layers above the bottom layer, and is preferably applied in multiple stages to improve dispersibility. [Industrial applicability]

[0105] The animal disposal method of the present invention can be used for the disposal of animals that have been euthanized for infectious diseases or other reasons, and is particularly suitable for the disposal of heavy animals weighing 10 kg or more that are difficult to lift by hand. [Explanation of symbols]

[0106] 1 burial hole 2. Soil and sand 3. Impermeable layer 4. Discarded pigs (animals) 5. Water absorbent

Claims

1. The excavation process involves digging a burial hole in the ground for animal disposal, A forming step involves introducing a superabsorbent polymer toward the bottom of the burial hole to form a watertight layer at least at the bottom of the burial hole, The process involves introducing animals and a water-absorbing agent into the burial hole where the water-impermeable layer has been formed. The backfilling process involves filling the aforementioned burial hole with soil and sand, A method for processing animals that include [a specific animal].

2. The method for treating animals according to claim 1, wherein the input step includes an alternating input step of alternately inputting the animal and the water-absorbing agent.

3. The method for treating animals according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the superabsorbent polymer is a powdered polymer.

4. The method for treating animals according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the impermeable layer further comprises a dispersant.

5. The method for treating animals according to claim 4, wherein the ratio (a / b) of the mass (a) of the superabsorbent polymer forming the impermeable layer to the mass (b) of the dispersant is 30 / 70 or more.

6. The method for treating animals according to claim 4, wherein the dispersant is a poorly soluble inorganic substance.

7. The water-absorbing agent comprises a superabsorbent polymer, The method for treating an animal according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the amount of superabsorbent polymer used is 15 g or more per 1 kg of animal if the superabsorbent polymer is a granular polymer, 19 g or more if the superabsorbent polymer is a fine granular polymer, and 25 g or more if the superabsorbent polymer is a powdered polymer.

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