Compost Characteristics Research Articles

EM4 Addition Effect with Eisenia foetida Worms on Compost Characteristics as a Soil Improver

A lot of fish waste is produced by the community, both from the marketing sector and the fisheries sector, which is caught by fishermen. Almost 35% of the fish waste produced is in the form of heads, bones, innards and also fish remains that are not the main catch which are thrown away directly. Vermicomposting is one of method to reduce the amount of fish waste. The adding of livestock manure in vermicomposting will increase the quality of compost. The purpose of this research is to analyze the compost quality with the mixture of fish waste and livestock manure. The results showed that The compost that has the best quality based on SNI 19-7030-2004 is B2 with 45% fish waste, 20% cow dung and 35% sawdust with a dose of EM4 10 ml, which has a final temperature of 29ºC, pH 7, water content 41%, C-organic 19.83%, nitrogen 1.34%, phosphorus 0.36%, potassium 1.15%, and C/N ratio 14.85. Then, after incubating the soil improvement, it was found that the addition of compost can improve the chemical characteristics of the soil according to the dose given. This indicates that compost application can affect soil quality. Soil quality that has C-organic and nitrogen content according to BPT in 2009 is with the addition of a dose of 5.2 grams of vermicompost. The shortcomings of this study are that the phosphorus and potassium levels are too high.

Composting Dairy Manure with Biochar: Compost Characteristics, Aminopyralid Residual Concentrations, and Phytotoxicity Effects

Aminopyralid (2-pyridine carboxylic acid, 4-amino-3, 6-dichloro-2-pyridine carboxylic acid) is an auxin herbicide that has been used widely to control broadleaf weeds in pasture and hay fields. With no post-application withdrawal time, aminopyralid absorbed into forage material can contaminate compost feed stocks such as hay, grass bedding material, and manure. Composts derived from such feed stocks raises concerns about after-effect injuries to sensitive crops by residual aminopyralids. Biochar (BC) additive may affect the composting process and immobilizes organic pollutants. This study examined the effect of composting dairy manure/sawdust 1:1 mixture containing 10 ppb (wet) of aminopyralid with 0%, 2%, 4%, and 10% (w/w) BC levels on chemical and biological characteristics of compost, residual aminopyralid concentration, and intensity of plant injury to tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum L.) plants after composting in 140 L plastic rotary drum reactors for two 6-month cycles. Biochar addition decreased organic matter degradation and intensified reduction in residual aminopyralid levels in a dose-dependent manner. Composting with BC concentrated more N, P, and K, caused mild plant injuries, and increased the above ground biomass compared to the no BC incorporation. Addition of BC for composting aminopyralid-contaminated dairy manure can increase the phyto safety level of compost while enhancing the key fertilizer values.

Characterization of composting process and chemical composition of compost from recycling centers in Surabaya City, Indonesia

Composting serves as a pivotal strategy in waste management, alleviating the burden on final disposal sites while simultaneously providing valuable fertilizer for urban agriculture. This study aims to delineate the intricacies of the composting process and elucidate the characteristics of compost derived from recycling centers/compost houses in Surabaya City, Indonesia. Employing a qualitative descriptive approach, this research scrutinized the composting process by delving into the origins of raw materials, procedural stages, and the chemical composition of the resultant compost. The composting materials encompassed household waste, market refuse, and fall foliage. Notably, composting occurred within an open aerobic system devoid of bio-activators. Chemical analysis revealed: C/N ratio (17.10 - 19.60), C-total (17.65% - 18.10%), N-total (0.95% - 1.12%), P2O5 (0.35% - 0.51%), K2O (0.39% - 0.41%), Cu (1.65 ppm - 2.01 ppm), Pb (2.05 ppm - 3.11 ppm), Cd (0.11 ppm - 0.24 ppm), and Zn (1.02 ppm - 1.14 ppm). Physically, the compost manifested as a dark brown substance, exhibiting a soil-like softness attributable to grinding, with temperatures oscillating between 41.90 to 55.00°C. Visually, the compost appeared mature and primed for utilization based on color and texture criteria; however, indicators such as C/N ratio and temperature suggest an immature state rendering the compost unsuitable for immediate planting. To ensure optimal maturity conducive to plant growth, it is recommended that users store the compost for a minimum of one month before application, thereby fostering its maturation process.

Investigating fungal community characteristics in co-composted cotton stalk and various livestock manure products.

Agricultural wastes, comprising cotton straw and livestock manure, can be effectively managed through aerobic co-composting. Nevertheless, the quality and microbial characteristics of co-composting products from different sources remain unclear. Therefore, this study utilized livestock manure from various sources in Xinjiang, China, including herbivorous sheep manure (G), omnivorous pigeon manure (Y), and pigeon-sheep mixture (GY) alongside cotton stalks, for a 40-day co-composting process. We monitored physicochemical changes, assessed compost characteristics, and investigated fungal community. The results indicate that all three composts met established composting criteria, with compost G exhibiting the fastest microbial growth and achieving the highest quality. Ascomycota emerged as the predominant taxon in three compost products. Remarkably, at the genus level, the biomarker species for G, Y, and GY are Petromyces and Cordyceps, Neurospora, and Neosartorya, respectively. Microorganisms play a pivotal role in organic matter degradation, impacting nutrient composition, demonstrating significant potential for the decomposition and transformation of compost components. Redundancy analysis indicates that potassium, total organic carbon, and C:N are key factors influencing fungal communities. This study elucidates organic matter degradation in co-composting straw and livestock manure diverse sources, optimizing treatment for efficient agricultural waste utilization and sustainable practices.

Characteristics of Compost from Straw and Fisheries Waste: A Comparative Analysis of Different Decomposers

The objective of this research was to assess the efficacy of three different decomposers in producing compost of high quality that meets the compost maturity standards (SNI 19-7030-2004). The experimental study was conducted with three treatments, each replicated five times, resulting in a total of fifteen composting holes. The research was conducted in South Batu Kuta Village, Narmada District, West Lombok Regency, from October to December 2019. The treatments included D1 (EM4 decomposer), D2 (Promi decomposer), and D3 (Phosphate Solubilizing Bacteria (PSB) decomposer). Various parameters, such as color, smell, temperature, pH, C-Organic, Total N, and C:N ratio, were assessed. The findings demonstrated that all three decomposers effectively decomposed the compost, yielding a high-quality product suitable for various plant applications. The compost produced by EM4, Promi, and PSB decomposers exhibited characteristics such as a blackish color, soil-like smell, a temperature ranging from 29.2°C to 29.8°C, a pH ranging from 6.83 to 6.87, organic carbon content ranging from 12.87% to 14.73%, total nitrogen content ranging from 0.83% to 0.87%, and a C/N ratio ranging from 14.35% to 14.60%. These results align with the compost maturity standards specified in SNI 19-7030-2004.

Effect of phytase supplementation on performance, fecal excretion, and compost characteristics in broilers fed diets deficient in phosphorus and calcium.

This study investigated the effect of dietary supplementation with phytase on growth performance, fecal excretion, and compost nutrition on broilers fed available phosphorus (avP)- and calcium (Ca)-deficient diets. A total of 750 one-day-old broiler chicks were randomly divided into five dietary groups having ten replications in a floor house. Diets of the groups were formulated with positive control (PC), negative control (NC; low avP and Ca), and NC supplemented with phytase levels; 500 (NC500), 1,000 (NC1000), and 1,500 FTU/kg (NC1500). A three-phase feeding program was used in the trial. Average daily gain (ADG) and average daily feed intake (ADFI) in the groups fed diets supplemented with phytase were significantly (p < 0.05) higher than those fed NC and the increase was equivalent to those fed PC. Serum levels of Ca and phosphorus (P) were higher (p < 0.05) in broilers fed NC1000 and NC1500 than in those fed NC. Interleukin (IL) level was the lowest in the group fed NC. Plasma myo-inositol (INS) concentrations in the NC1500 group were higher (p < 0.05) than PC, NC, and NC500 groups. Crude protein (CP) excretion was notably (p < 0.05) lower in the NC1500 group than in PC and NC groups. A lower (p < 0.05) concentration of P2O5 was observed in compost from the group fed NC1500 than the groups fed PC and NC. Accordingly, we suggest that phytase supplementation in lower avP and Ca levels of broiler diet can improve their productive performance and reduce environmental pollution.

Assessment of the Characteristics of the Municipal Solid Waste Compost in Lebanon

Assessment of the Characteristics of the Municipal Solid Waste Compost in Lebanon

Short-Term Effects of Olive-Pomace-Based Conditioners on Soil Aggregation Stability

Mediterranean agriculture asks for sustainable strategies to prevent actual soil organic matter decline rates. Composting agri-food by-products for application in farmland, besides contributing to a circular economy at regional or local scales, may improve soil resistance to physical degradation. Aggregate stability (AS) is a crucial property for building up such resistance. Olive pomace is an abundant by-product of the olive oil industry that may be valorized through composting. This study aimed to assess the influence on AS of olive-pomace-based composts (OPC) applied to a sandy loam Leptosol and a clay loam Fluvisol. To assess the effects of compost characteristics on AS, three OPCs resulting from different olive pomace proportions in the composting raw material (44, 31, and 25% by volume) were applied to aggregate samples in three doses (10, 20, and 40 t.ha−1, plus control) with fine and coarse grain sizes. Controlled laboratory conditions subjected samples to daily wetting-drying cycles during a 30-day experiment. AS was measured by wet sieving. OPC application significantly increased AS in the Leptosol amended with fine (+15% vs. control) and coarse (+19%) grain-size compost. In well-aggregated Fluvisol, amendment induced a significant increase in AS only in the compost coarse grain size (+12%). The application dose significantly affected AS, with 10 t.ha−1 being the best-performing dose. OPC applications in weakly aggregated soils are seemingly an encouraging soil management practice for improving soil resistance to physical degradation and reducing soil organic matter decline rates in Mediterranean farmland.

The potential of coffee ground compost to enhance soil pH, growth, and production of mustard greens in acid-dry land

The deficiency of productive agricultural land was an obstacle to the development of mustard green cultivation. The utilization of acid-dry land is a solution for the development of mustard green cultivation. South Kalimantan has acid-dry land covering an area of 87.61% of the total dry land. The use of coffee grounds compost is an alternative technology for improving soil fertility in acid dry land. Coffee grounds compost can increase soil organic matter, so it can fertilize the soil and increase crop production. This study aims to determine the quality of coffee grounds compost and determine the best dosage of coffee grounds compost to increase soil pH, growth, and production of mustard greens in acid dry land. This research method used a single-factor randomized block design (RBD), namely the dose of coffee grounds compost: k0 = 0 t ha−1; k1 = 10 t ha−1; k2 = 20 t ha−1; and k3 = 30 t ha−1. The physical and chemical characteristics of coffee waste compost have met the criteria for quality compost based on SNI No. 19-7030-2004. The results showed the effect of coffee grounds compost on increasing soil pH, growth, and production of mustard greens. The best dose of coffee grounds compost in increasing soil pH, plant fresh weight, and mustard productivity was found in the K3 treatment with increases of 18.05%, 67.21%, and 67.21% respectively compared to the control. The best treatment for increasing plant height, number of leaves, and width of mustard leaves was treatment k1 with an increase of 51.34%, 31.03%, and 40.60% respectively compared to the control.

Assessing consistency in the aerobic co-composting of faecal sludge and food waste in a municipality in Ghana

BackgroundA faecal sludge (FS) co-composting study assessed the extent of consistency in compost characteristics between and within batches. The study focused on the consistency of the co-composting process by measuring the variability of key parameters.MethodThe set up consisted of 12 FS and food waste (FW) co-composting piles in three successive batches (1, 2 and 3). Consistency was assessed in the three successive batches of co-composted FS and food waste (FW). Within batches, consistency was assessed in each of them by dividing it into four separate replicate piles. Characteristics of interest were E. coli, as well as selected physico-chemical parameters (pH, EC, Mg, Ca, N, NH4-N, NO3-N, P, avail. P, and K) and heavy metals (Se, Fe, Cd, Cu, Hg, Ni, Pb and Cr). Data were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) using SPSS.ResultResults show that, E. coli levels were not consistent between the successive batches during the entire co-composting process. While variations between batches were only observed for EC and nutrient parameters, variations were evident for several measured characteristics within batches. The measured coefficient of variations (CVs) within batches ranged between 0–125% and 3–111% for heavy metals and nutrients, respectively.ConclusionIn conclusion, there was less consistency in nutrients between successive batches and CV within batches was wide. Consistency levels for E. coli may not be an issue if pathogen inactivation is complete.RecommendationIt is recommended that a threshold value be created for determining what is an acceptable level of variation in FS co-composting.

Potential of marine organic waste: chemical characteristics of compost from marine organic waste Kuala Indah Beach, North Sumatra

Marine debris was a direct threat to marine habitats, human health, and navigational safety, resulting in serious socio-economic losses. Marine organic waste management can be done by turning it into compost that can be used as a nutrient addition. It can also be used as a solution to be diminished marine waste considering that the sea had many roles to support the lives of living things and maintain ecosystems. This study aimed to examined some characteristics of compost from marine organic waste and gave information on waste management for sustainable agriculture. This study was carried out at Kuala Indah Beach, Sei Suka District, Batu Bara Regency, Indonesia. The composting process was carried out at the Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Sumatera Utara. The analysis was carried out at the Research and Technology Laboratory of the Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Sumatera Utara. The composting process used the Berkeley method with the addition of EM4. The results showed that the chemical characteristics of marine organic waste compost by Indonesian National Standard (SNI 19-7030-2004) with a macronutrient content of 2.40% Nitrogen; Phosphorus 0.53%; and Potassium 0.45% with a pH of 6.95 (neutral) and a compost C/N ratio of 17.33.

Pengelolaan Daun Kering untuk Dijadikan sebagai Pupuk Kompos

A substance administered to plants with the intention of enhancing nutrient availability is referred to as fertilizer. The goal of this study project was to find a solution to the issue of environmental contamination brought on by the buildup of dry leaf detritus. Compost is created using dry leaf waste as the primary component and EM4 as an aid.EM4 is responsible for breaking down the organic material in leaves. The characteristics of the pre-made dry leaf compost are its blackish brown hue, crumbly and somewhat rough texture, lack of odor, and loose granular shape. The method of research used is library research, or research that is based on printed books and journals that are accessible on Google Scoolar. This type of study is a descriptive analysis that draws on the works of authors who have expertise in relevant disciplines and other studies that are descriptive in nature. Using data gathered through the inductive method, generalizations are then analyzed using one or more initial data sets. The acquired data was examined using a descriptive analytic approach. By turning dry leaves into compost that is more beneficial and valuable economically, this research also aims to strengthen and expand the community's creative capacities as well as its economics. Bright colors are a sign of overly dry composting or a humidity level below 30%. One factor in determining a compost's maturity is aroma. The compost fermentation process will produce a variety of strong aromas.&#x0D; Keywords: Utilization of waste, compost, dry leaves, EM4 &#x0D;

Evaluation of the Feasibility of Utilizing Composted Sludge from Leather Industry Wastewater in Sudan

The objective of this study is to assess the potential for composting chromium-rich sludge from the leather industry wastewater in Sudan, with the aim of removing or capturing heavy metals before they can leach into the surrounding environment. “This research aims to evaluate the pH, organic matter, total nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and calcium content of compost made from leather industry wastewater sludge, as well as determine the level of bioavailability of heavy metals. To create the compost, the leather industry wastewater sludge was mixed with organic waste such as chicken manure, rice bran, and sawdust in various ratios, and then shaped into block piles for the composting process. The results indicate that for the recommended block-shaped piles, the organic content decreased from 30% to 25%, while the pH value and NPK content were satisfactory for composting. Additionally, the total heavy metal content, including Cr, Cd, Cu, Pb, Mn, and Zn, was well below the upper limit standard for biosolids, which classifies the compost as excellent." "The compost was found to be free of Salmonella sp., Shigella sp., and helminth eggs, and there was a 103-fold decrease in total coliforms. The compost characteristics indicated that it was mature, and the germination index for cabbage seeds was 85.5%, which suggests that most of the phototoxic compounds were removed."

Assessment of physical and chemical characteristics of bio-organic compost from seafood sludge

Seafood sludge (SS) was one of the solid wastes generated during the wastewater treatment processes of seafood processing factories, and it increasingly discharged to the environment. This study aimed to reuse sludge from seafood wastewater treatment plants for producing microbial-organic fertilizer to handle environmental pollution. SS samples were collected at seafood factories in Dong Thap province. Other materials, including sugarcane filter cake (SC) and bagasse (B) were collected in Hau Giang province. Five treatments with three replications for each consisted of a mixture ratio of SS, SC and B at (1) 10-60-30, respectively; (2) 10 + 70 + 20; (3) 20 + 60 + 20; (4) 10 + 70 + 20 and (5) 20 + 80 + 0. All composting mixtures were analyzed for temperature, moisture content, pH, electrical conductivity, volume reduction, organic carbon (OC), total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP) and total potassium (TK) at stages of 0 and 49 days after incubation. Results after 49 incubation days showed that the pH value of both kinds of sludge was slightly acid to neutral (6-7). Electrical conductivity values were suitable from 0.74 to 1.57 mS/cm. The weight loss of incubated samples was 35.87-77.56% after a 49-day incubation. Organic carbon contents were at a high level (over 30% C). After 49 incubation days, the TN, TP, and TK content were high at 2.01-3.03%N; 6.71-9.95%P2O5; and 2.62-3.15%K2O, respectively. The C/N ratio ranged from 12.15 to 19.1. The optimal ratio was mixed with 20% seafood sludge and 80% sugarcane filter cake. The period of 49 days was seen as the suitable incubation time for composting maturity and stability.

Effects of waterweed compost derived from Lake Biwa on Komatsuna (Brassica rapa var. perviridis) growth

ABSTRACT In Lake Biwa, located in Shiga Prefecture, Japan, the overgrowth of waterweeds has become a significant environmental and human-life problem. Therefore, the waterweeds are systematically harvested and composted. In order to consider the effective use of waterweed compost for carbon neutrality and resource recycling, we clarified the characteristics of the waterweed compost by cultivation experiments with Komatsuna (Brassica rapa var. perviridis). When the waterweed compost (20%) was applied alone, the growth of plants was promoted about 1.7 times compared to a control containing the same amount of fertilizer components. However, the plant showed yellowing of leaves and a high C/N ratio, indicating obvious symptoms of nitrogen deficiency. The application of the waterweed compost (20%) with chemical fertilizer remarkably enhanced plant growth up to about 3.5 times without nitrogen deficiency compared to a control containing only chemical fertilizer. Interestingly, the coexistence of the waterweed compost and chemical fertilizer activated nitrification and diversified soil bacteria (Chao1 index, 213.0; Shannon index, 6.50) rather than the waterweed compost alone (Chao1 index, 41.3; Shannon index, 4.34). Our results indicate that the waterweed compost functions effectively as an organic fertilizer and a soil amendment, contributing to sustainable agriculture.

Analisis Pemanfaatan Sampah Organik Sebagai Media Perkembangbiakan Maggot

Organic waste as a medium for maggot breeding to produce maximum compost yields. The quality and quantity of fly larvae breeding media greatly affect the nutrient content of the body and the survival of the larvae at the metamorphosis stage. This research is an experimental research model with a completely randomized design (CRD) consisting of 1 treatment. The treatment is given using selected organic waste. Analysis of the data in this study in the form of a table of results of laboratory analysis of compost characteristics, namely pH, C-Organic, N-Total and C/N ratio and maggot weight. The results of the Soil Test Laboratory are seen in the pH with rice, fruit and vegetable media experiencing differences in pH with values of 5.15, 5.5, 5.95 and 6.4 (acidic) looks different from the initial pH, in this test the pH value shows the medium used is quite good for the composting process. Table 4.2 also shows the difference in values at the time of testing, it can be seen from the 4 variations in C-Organic that the highest value in vegetable and fruit waste media reached 13.05 %, but did not meet the quality standards for good C-Organic values. for composting. In the N-Total the highest value is in the 4th variation with a value of 26.3 with an N-Total quality standard of 30% so that from the 4 variations of the media it does not exceed the N-Total quality standard which will affect the maggot weight, in contrast to C/N which has the highest value is the 4th variation with a value of 20, with the quality standard the best value of the C/N ratio in the composting process is 25-40%, and it can be concluded that the value of the C/N ratio has not met the quality standard of the C/N ratio so that affect maggot breeding with a span of 20 days.

Unraveling the Effect of Continuously Accumulating Microplastics on the Humification of Dissolved Organic Matter in the Composting System

Microplastics (MPs) accumulation in composting systems has received considerable attention in recent years. However, the ecological risk of MPs on composting environments remains scarcely explored. This study investigated the impact of polyethylene and polyethylene terephthalate MPs on the structural evolution of dissolved organic matter (DOM) during composting. The ultraviolet, excitation–emission matrix, and Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectroscopy collectively suggested that MPs caused DOM of compost to have lower aromaticity and fewer humic acid-like substances, particularly at the early stage of composting. This inhibition effect of MPs on the aromatization of DOM of compost was proved to result from not only the altered compost characteristics (e.g., lower pH and temperature relative to the control) but also the preferential sorption of specific DOM compositions by MPs. The sorption of DOM by MPs before and after composting showed that the protein-like components and microbial by-product analogues, which were significant substrates for humification, were found to be preferentially sorbed by two MPs and thus were prevented from being directly humified by some microorganisms. The finding would contribute to an in-depth explanation of the mechanisms by which MPs affect compost humification and provide insight into the ecological risks of MPs for composting environments.

Assessing Physiochemical Characteristics of Agricultural Waste and Ready Compost at Wadi Al-Far'a Watershed of Palestine.

The Wadi Al-Far'a Watershed (WFW) is one of the most important agricultural lands in Palestine where considerable amounts of organic wastes are generated. Yet, mismanagement of agricultural waste, including random disposal and/or burning, is a prevalent practice in the WFW. Such a practice might result in greenhouse gas emissions and leachate penetration into underlying soil and groundwater. To encourage compost production in the WFW as an efficient way for organic agricultural waste treatment and emission reduction, this study aims at evaluating the quality of both raw organic agricultural waste and ready compost, locally produced or imported. The evaluation considers the physiochemical characteristics as well as the heavy metal contents. The analysis of 17 samples of raw organic agricultural waste showed a good potential for compost production due to the high content of organic matter and other nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus. The analysis of 15 ready compost samples, however, showed that compost quality is relatively low due to the high electrical conductivity and low moisture content measurements as well as the high levels of sodium, chloride, and potassium. Furthermore, heavy metal contents of both raw organic agricultural waste and ready compost samples are less than the limits specified by the Palestinian and international standards. Therefore, local farmers can safely use raw organic agricultural waste generated in the WFW for compost production. Composting will not only enhance soil reclamation and crop production but also protect human health and the environment and promote sustainable economic development.

Epidemiologia da mastite e interações de fatores ambientais na saúde do úbere no sistema de Compost Barn

ABSTRACT This study aimed to describe the epidemiological indexes of mastitis, milk quality and udder hygiene in the Compost Barn system, as well as to search for associations between isolated pathogens from milk with compost characteristics. Three dairy herds participated in the study, and the samples were collected during different periods on each farm. Individual milk samples were collected in duplicate for SCC analysis and microbiological culture. Environmental pathogens caused most cases of clinical mastitis on farm 2, and contagious pathogens caused the most cases on farm 1. Bed moisture was not associated with the incidence of environmental pathogens. Most of the animals remained in good udder hygiene during the study. Poor udder hygiene contributed to the increased incidence of environmental pathogens in one of the farms. A higher number of animals with a hygiene score of ≥ 2 were observed during the warmer and rainfall periods. There was no association between hygiene scores and somatic cell counts. The results suggest that pathogens isolated from milk in animals confined in Compost Barn under tropical climate are like other confinement systems adopted elsewhere. The year period influenced the udder hygiene score, reinforcing the importance of bed management throughout the year.

Influence of compost composition on its agrochemical parameters

The article presents the results of studying the agrochemical characteristics of composts made on the basis of animal husbandry waste (manure) and woodworking enterprises (bark). A favorable effect of the bark on the mineralization of the composted substrate was revealed: an increase in the amount of bark contributes to an increase in the content of mobile forms of nitrogen and phosphorus.