Physical, chemical and biological processes for optimizing decentralized composting

Abstract

On-site composting of nonpolluted organic wastes avoids costs and energy for transportation since the volume to be transported can be reduced to about 20% of the original. This paper describes the aerobic processes in a small-scale composting reactor, and evaluates how these processes can be optimized. The optimized composting process has a relatively short turnover time for organic matter; at the same time the temperature of about 60degreesC decreases the problems with pathogens and weeds in the mature compost. The compost produced has a high nutritional value, with high concentrations of especially nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus, while the contamination by heavy metals and other toxic substances are very low.

Published in

Compost Science and Utilization
2003, volume: 11, number: 4, pages: 330-336
Publisher: JG PRESS, INC

SLU Authors

• Nimmermark, Sven

  • Department of Agricultural Biosystems and Technology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
    

UKÄ Subject classification

Other Environmental Biotechnology
Environmental Management

Publication identifier

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1080/1065657X.2003.10702142

Permanent link to this page (URI)

https://res.slu.se/id/publ/53053