Physical properties of synthetic bedding materials for free-stall dairy cow

Abstract

Rest is a prerequisite for the well-being of cows and they spend 40-50% of the time lying down. In this study the basic physical properties, the friction coefficient, heat flux as a function of time and softness of the bedding materials were measured. The heat flux to the bedding was shown to be large enough to affect the cow's heat balance. The friction coefficients of most of the tested materials were not within the recommended 0.3-0.5. However, the friction values are only indicative, as the material and the shape of the artificial hoof were not identical to natural hooves. There were also differences of almost an order of magnitude in the softness (Young's modulus) of the mats. Demands for softness vary according to the type of building and cow's physical condition, for instance a cow with an injured leg needs softer bedding. The properties of mats and beds varied considerably and the various properties did not correlate with each other. More information is needed concerning these values to animal welfare and health in order to be able to make recommendations of different physical material characteristics in different climate and housing conditions.

Why Is the Grass the Best Surface to Prevent Lameness? Integrative Analysis of Functional Ranges as a Key for Dairy Cows’ Welfare

“…The recommended elasticity for an artificial surface allows a deformation between 3.3 mm for 250 kg [ 34 ] and 10 mm for 400 kg [ 79 ]. The friction coefficient should be set between 0.4 and 0.5 μ, as in rubber [ 10 , 79 ], allowing a safe and efficient gait with the least wear on the hoof [ 72 , 80 ].…”

“…Heat stress, at an initial stage, causes an increased grazing movement, but then there is later activity decrease due to exhaustion [ 81 ], thereby affecting recovery capacity. Ruunaniemi et al (2005) [ 79 ] obtained data for seven types of rubber that showed a wide material performance. Some of these materials were best for cold climate (seasonal) because they lost heat slowly, while others were best for hot weather because the heat flux was as much as three-fold faster.…”

Assessment of cleanness of environmental surfaces in cattle barns and piggeries

“…In some studies other materials than concrete were included, for example wood as a material of cattle barns has been reviewed by de Belie et al (2000b) and metal by de Belie et al (2000c). In some studies the use of bedding materials (Ruunaniemi et al 2005) and straw (Tuyttens 2005) has been the focus of attention rather than the structural, permanently installed surface material itself.…”