Jinbao-type fermentation additives work by utilizing functional bacteria that thrive in a balanced environment. These bacteria are most effective when the "carbon-to-nitrogen ratio" (C/N ratio) is between 20:1 and 30:1, which represents the optimal nutritional structure for microbial activity. To ensure successful fermentation, it's essential to maintain this balance in the material mixture. If the C/N ratio is too low, it can lead to "nutritional deficiency," which hinders the process.
For example, if the fermentation material consists solely of animal manure, its C/N ratio is typically below 20, meaning it lacks sufficient carbon. In such cases, it’s recommended to add materials like straw, sawdust, or other high-carbon substances to bring the ratio into the ideal range. However, in real-world farming scenarios, many farmers unknowingly or intentionally mix some sawdust or fibrous materials into the litter, or even include small amounts of fiber in the feed. This can naturally raise the C/N ratio, sometimes bringing it close to 30:1. This adjustment is often referred to as "balancing."
Therefore, under normal conditions—such as proper moisture levels—chicken manure that contains some impurities may not require additional materials for effective fermentation. When using straw or similar materials, they should generally be chopped or crushed to ensure even mixing. The level of fineness required depends on the purpose: if the final product is intended for sale, finer particle size is usually preferred for better appearance and quality. For personal use, the requirements may be more flexible.
If the fermentation material includes high-fiber components like bark, sawdust, peanut shells, or rice husks, it's important to supplement with nitrogen-rich sources such as urea solution, chicken manure, or fecal slurry. This helps adjust the C/N ratio to a suitable range for efficient microbial activity. For more precise calculations, it's advisable to refer to specialized resources, such as the company's guide on "Carbon-Nitrogen Ratio Calculation Method."