Performance evaluation of a non-odorous compost barrel for household purposes

Abstract

Composting is one of the simplest and oldest methods for reducing biowaste at source before it goes to the main waste stream. However, odor from the degradation procedure can be a significant problem, which can hinder household to pursue this kind of endeavor. This study aimed to evaluate the composting barrel using a covering device to mitigate the emission of foul odor during composting of typical household biowaste. Turning the substrates inside the barrel is recommended, but the effect of turning frequency needs additional discussion. Hence, two barrels with the same capacity were used in the study for comparison. Barrel A was turned daily while Barrel B was turned once a week, both with five complete rotations. Results showed that compost from Barrel A could be harvested earlier than Barrel B, as a result of the higher turning rate. Composting parameters such as temperature, pH, moisture content, and mass variations were carefully monitored and exhibited acceptable operating conditions.In terms of the quality of the final compost, the former had a total Nitrogen, Phosphorous, and Potassium (NPK) of 4.67 %, while the latter has a total NPK of 4.86 %, which are both classified as soil conditioners based on the standard for organic soil amendments. Moreover, the activated carbon (AC) mat cover was found to be effective (p<0.05) in deterring odor in the course of the decomposition process. Hence, this study demonstrates that the composting can be a non-odorous and eco-friendly solution for household’s biodegradable waste management.