Characterization of Waste Materials Using FTIR Spectroscopy: Process Monitoring and Quality Assessment

Abstract

Stages of organic matter decomposition in waste materials are reflected by their IR spectral pattern. Indicator bands undergo changes during the biological treatment of the waste material. Based on the alteration of band intensities, process control can be carried out. Different spectral patterns of yard‐waste composting processes were related to divergent compost features. Mechanical–biological treatment of municipal solid waste results in a final product that can be disposed in a land fill. Several missing bands that indicate metabolic activities reveal final product quality. Identification of unknown materials can be carried out by comparison with pure substances or landfill components. The assessment of waste organic matter in abandoned landfills is based on the spectral pattern that is assigned to a specific stage of decomposition. Maturity and stability, which are considered important properties of waste organic matter, are reflected by their spectroscopic characteristics. This paper was by special invitation as a contribution to a special issue of the journal entitled “Application of Spectroscopic Methods to Environmental Problems”. The special issue was organized by Professor Peter A. Tanner, Professor in the Department of Biology and Chemistry at City University of Hong Kong.