Evaluation of different floor materials in cattle barns

Floor surfaces in livestock barns are of special interest, since they should withstand strong mechanical and chemical stress and they should also be as comfortable as possible to stand and lie on. Furthermore, the floors should be easy to clean. The aim of this project was to develop well-functioning floor surface materials for use in animal houses. Both laboratory and field tests were performed. Changes in repellence and surface properties, cleanability, colour and gloss of materials were measured. Materials for the field test were chosen according to the results of laboratory studies with the exception of silane-impregnated concrete. The other materials selected were epoxy-, polyurethane- and acrylic coatings for floorings and feeding tables, and polyester coating for feeding tables. Two materials not tested in the laboratory were also included in the field tests. Traditional concrete was used as reference. The surface materials had more effect on changes in cleanability and repellence of tested materials than the chemical stresses introduced. SEM pictures showed that during wear the surfaces became rougher or scratches appeared on them. According to profilometer measurements no significant differences between the changes in the surface roughness of test materials were observed. The results of colour and gloss measurements varied considerably, but in general, coating decreased the changes of colour and gloss of the surface materials. The field study provides practical information about the behaviour of the surface materials examined. (20 refs.)