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Viaene J, Peiren N, Vandamme D, Lataf A, Cuypers A, Debeer L, Vandecasteele B. Application of biochar to anaerobic digestion versus digestate: Effects on N emissions and C stability. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 915:170124. [PMID: 38232844 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 12/21/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
Research attention is growing for biochar as amendment for anaerobic digestion (AD), as it may improve both the AD process and digestate properties. In this study, two biochars (from insect frass or the woody fraction of green waste, both pyrolyzed at 450 °C) were added (5 % w/w) during semi-continuous AD of organic kitchen waste and chicken manure. Biochar was mixed either during the AD process or to the digestate post-treatment. The impact of biochar addition on the AD process, NH3 and greenhouse gas emissions, as well as C and N mineralization following soil application, was examined. Biochar did not affect the biogas yield, but did lead to a reduction in NH3 levels in the biogas and NH4+-N sorption onto the biochars, reducing the risk of AD inhibition. N sorbed as NH4+-N onto the biochar was more available for mineralization than N sorbed as NH3. N sorption on biochar-amended digestates did not result in trade-offs when these digestates were applied to soil: the sorbed N was not released as NH3 or N2O after soil application and was not released as mineral N in either the short or medium term. The C-rich biochars increased the OC content of the digestate, which enhanced its value as soil improver. Additionally, mixing biochar with digestate decreased the soil CO2 emissions up to 33 % when it was added after AD; no priming effects were observed. These findings highlight the potential benefits of incorporating biochar into AD systems and the subsequent application of biochar-amended digestate in agricultural practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Viaene
- Flanders Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO), Burg. Van Gansberghelaan 92, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium.
| | - N Peiren
- Flanders Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO), Burg. Van Gansberghelaan 92, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium.
| | - D Vandamme
- Hasselt University, Centre for Environmental Sciences (CMK), Agoralaan Building D, 3590 Diepenbeek, Belgium.
| | - A Lataf
- Hasselt University, Centre for Environmental Sciences (CMK), Agoralaan Building D, 3590 Diepenbeek, Belgium.
| | - A Cuypers
- Hasselt University, Centre for Environmental Sciences (CMK), Agoralaan Building D, 3590 Diepenbeek, Belgium.
| | - L Debeer
- Normec OWS, Pantserschipstraat 163, 9000 Gent, Belgium.
| | - B Vandecasteele
- Flanders Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO), Burg. Van Gansberghelaan 92, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium.
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Woznicki T, Kusnierek K, Vandecasteele B, Sønsteby A. Reuse of coir, peat, and wood fiber in strawberry production. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2024; 14:1307240. [PMID: 38283974 PMCID: PMC10811249 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2023.1307240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
Introduction Production of strawberries in greenhouses and polytunnels is gaining popularity worldwide. This study investigated the effect of reuse of coir and peat, two substrates commonly adapted to soilless strawberry production, as well as stand-alone wood fiber from Norway spruce, a promising substrate candidate. Methods The experiment was performed in a polytunnel at NIBIO Apelsvoll, Norway, and evaluated both virgin substrates, as well as spent materials that were used in one or two years. Yield, berry quality and plant architecture of the strawberry cultivar 'Malling Centenary' were registered. In addition, chemical and physical properties of virgin and reused substrates were investigated. Results While plants grown in peat and wood fiber had highest yield in the first year of production, the berry yield was slightly reduced when these substrates were utilized for the second and third time. However, yield was comparable to the yield level attained in new and reused coir. Interestingly, berries grown in wood fiber had a tendency to a higher sugar accumulation. This substrate also produced the highest plants. Stand-alone wood fiber was the substrate with the highest accumulation of nitrogen during the three consecutive production cycles. All three investigated materials revealed a trend for decreased potassium accumulation. Wood fiber is characterized by the highest percentage of cellulose, however after three years of production the cellulose content was reducedto the same levels as for coir and peat. Discussion Implementation of wood fiber as a growing medium, as well as general practice of substrate reuse can be therefore an achievable strategy for more sustainable berry production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomasz Woznicki
- Department of Horticulture, Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy Research (NIBIO), Kapp, Norway
| | - Krzysztof Kusnierek
- Department of Agricultural Technology and System Analysis, Center for Precision Agriculture, Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy Research (NIBIO), Kapp, Norway
| | - Bart Vandecasteele
- Plant Sciences Unit, Flanders Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO), Melle, Belgium
| | - Anita Sønsteby
- Department of Horticulture, Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy Research (NIBIO), Kapp, Norway
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Vandecasteele B. Oxygen uptake rate versus CO 2 based respiration rate for assessment of the biological stability of peat, plant fibers and woody materials with high C:N ratio versus composts. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2023; 167:74-80. [PMID: 37245398 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2023.05.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
The biological stability of organic materials predicts their performance when used as either a soil improver or as an ingredient in growing media. CO2 release in a static measurement and O2 consumption rate (OUR) were compared for seven groups of growing media components. The ratio between CO2 release and OUR was matrix-specific. This ratio was highest for plant fibers high in C:N and with a high risk of N immobilization, intermediate for wood fiber and woody composts, and lowest for peat and other compost types. The effect of variable test conditions in the OUR setup was assessed for plant fibers, where addition of mineral N and/or nitrification inhibitor had no effect on the OUR measurements. Testing at 30 °C instead of 20 °C resulted in higher OUR values as expected, but did not change the effect of mineral N dose. A strong increase in the CO2 flux was measured when plant fibers were mixed with mineral fertilizer; in contrast, addition of mineral N or fertilizer before or during the OUR test had no effect. The present experimental setup did not allow for differentiation between a higher CO2 release as a result of increased microbial respiration after adding mineral N versus an underestimation of stability due to N limitation in the dynamic OUR setup. Results indicate that type of material, C:N ratio and risk of N immobilization all appear to affect the OUR results. The OUR criteria may therefore require clear differentiation based on the different materials used in horticultural substrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bart Vandecasteele
- Plant Sciences Unit, Flanders Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO), Burg. Van Gansberghelaan 109, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium.
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Ahn CH, Lee S, Park JR, Ahn HK, Yoon S, Nam K, Joo JC. Physicochemical and fertility characteristics of microalgal soil ameliorants using harvested cyanobacterial microalgal sludge from a freshwater ecosystem, Republic of Korea. Heliyon 2022; 8:e09700. [PMID: 35761930 PMCID: PMC9233212 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e09700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 02/19/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The recovery and reuse strategy of cyanobacterial microalgal sludge (CyanoMS) is a novel sustainable platform that can mitigate cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms (CyanoHABs) in the freshwater system. This study aimed to assess the nutritional feasibility of harvested CyanoMS for microalgal soil ameliorants (MSAs) as efficient biofertilizers by the composting process. Most MSAs exhibited stable nutrient levels during the sequential metabolic phases for the entire period. The qualitative value of all MSAs using CyanoMS as a biofertilizer was verified by the excellent Fertility Index (FI), Clean Index (CI), and plant growth values. Also, successfully matured MSAs provided long-term support for retarded release of nutrients along the microbial transitional pathway. However, suitable CyanoMS contents of 11.7-37.6% (w/w) in MSAs were critical for efficient microbial activation and substrate inhibition. Since these results were fundamentally based on microbial transition on the CyanoMS content, optimum weight content and composting period were required. Nevertheless, MSAs were commercially applicable to high value-added crops due to their high fertilization potential and recyclable value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Hyuk Ahn
- Department of Land, Water and Environment Research, Korea Institute of Civil Engineering and Building Technology, Goyang 10223, Republic of Korea.,Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Seoul National University, Gwanak-ro 1, Gwanak-gu, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Saeromi Lee
- Department of Land, Water and Environment Research, Korea Institute of Civil Engineering and Building Technology, Goyang 10223, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Roh Park
- Department of Land, Water and Environment Research, Korea Institute of Civil Engineering and Building Technology, Goyang 10223, Republic of Korea
| | - Hong-Kyu Ahn
- Department of Land, Water and Environment Research, Korea Institute of Civil Engineering and Building Technology, Goyang 10223, Republic of Korea
| | - Seongsim Yoon
- Department of Land, Water and Environment Research, Korea Institute of Civil Engineering and Building Technology, Goyang 10223, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyoungphile Nam
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Seoul National University, Gwanak-ro 1, Gwanak-gu, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Chul Joo
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Hanbat National University, Daejeon 34158, Republic of Korea
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Vandecasteele B, Pot S, Maenhout K, Delcour I, Vancampenhout K, Debode J. Acidification of composts versus woody management residues: Optimizing biological and chemical characteristics for a better fit in growing media. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2021; 277:111444. [PMID: 33059323 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2020.111444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/27/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Previous research has demonstrated that composts (COM) and woody residues from nature management (MR) are potential peat replacers for growing media, but their compositions are highly variable. Our goal is to make growing media more sustainable by optimizing the selection of local and sustainable alternatives for peat. Different batches of COM and MR were incubated to assess the microbial activity based on (1) the N drawdown risk, (2) the C mineralization and (3) the inoculation efficiency of a commercially available biocontrol fungus. The various batches were characterized based on biochemical, chemical (pH, available and total nutrients) and microbiological biomass analysis. COM and MR were scored based on chemical or stability characteristics to assess their suitability to replace peat, lime and fertilizers in growing media. This score allowed for a clear differentiation between the materials; MR received higher scores on average than COM. Five composts were further tested for the effect of storage after blending with an acidic MR, acidification with elemental S, or removal of the finer fraction. One batch of chopped soft rush was acidified with elemental S. Blending and acidification were the most effective treatments as they resulted in a clear increase of the suitability score.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bart Vandecasteele
- Flanders Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO), Merelbeke, Belgium.
| | | | - Kristof Maenhout
- Flanders Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO), Merelbeke, Belgium
| | - Ilse Delcour
- PCS Ornamental Plant Research, Destelbergen, Belgium
| | | | - Jane Debode
- Flanders Research Institute for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (ILVO), Merelbeke, Belgium
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Jimenez J, Grigatti M, Boanini E, Patureau D, Bernet N. The impact of biogas digestate typology on nutrient recovery for plant growth: Accessibility indicators for first fertilization prediction. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2020; 117:18-31. [PMID: 32805598 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2020.07.052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Revised: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, anaerobic digestion of organic waste (OW) is rapidly appearing as a winning waste management strategy by producing energy and anaerobic digestates that can be used as fertilizers in agricultural soils. In this context, the management of the OW treatment process to maximize agro-system sustainability satisfying the crop nutrient demands represents the main goal. To investigate these traits, two protocols to assess the plant availability of digestate nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) were evaluated. With this aim, the N and P availability was determined on 8 digestates and 2 types of digestate-based compost from different OW via sequential chemical extractions (SCE). In addition, the digestates were tested in soil incubations and in plant pot tests with Italian ryegrass and compared with chemical fertilizer and a non-amended control soil. The N extracted from digestates via SCE was related to soil N mineralization and plant N recovery. The C: N ratio had negative impact on mineralized N and its recovery in shoots (ShootsN = -0.0085.(C/N)+0.172, r2 = 0.67), whereas water extractable mineral N was positevely related to the root N apparent recovery fraction (N-ARF) with (RootsN = 5E-5.Nsolublemin+0.0138, r2 = 0.53). The shoot P-ARF was positively correlated with the inorganic water extractable fraction of P (ShootsP =0.1153.H2O-Pi-0.2777.H2O-Po+0.0249, r2 = 0.71) whereas the root P-ARF was positively correlated with the less accessible fractions (RootsP = (b) 0.0955.NaHCO3-Po+0.0955.NaOH-Po-0.0584NaHCO3-Pi+0.0128, r2 = 0.8641). Feedstock digestate typology impacted the N and P recovery results leading to a better description of the typology properties and a first nutrients ARF prediction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Jimenez
- LBE, INRAE, Univ Montpellier, 102 Avenue des Etangs, Narbonne F-11100, France.
| | - Marco Grigatti
- Department of Agricultural and Food Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum, University of Bologna, Viale G. Fanin, 40, 40127 Bologna, Italy
| | - Elisa Boanini
- Department of Chemistry "Giacomo Ciamician", Alma Mater Studiorum - University of Bologna, Via Selmi 2, 40126 Bologna, Italy
| | - Dominique Patureau
- LBE, INRAE, Univ Montpellier, 102 Avenue des Etangs, Narbonne F-11100, France
| | - Nicolas Bernet
- LBE, INRAE, Univ Montpellier, 102 Avenue des Etangs, Narbonne F-11100, France
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Wang X, Chen T, Zheng G. Preservation of nitrogen and sulfur and passivation of heavy metals during sewage sludge composting with KH 2PO 4 and FeSO 4. BIORESOURCE TECHNOLOGY 2020; 297:122383. [PMID: 31735697 DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2019.122383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2019] [Revised: 11/02/2019] [Accepted: 11/04/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Composting is an effective method for treating sewage sludge. The aim of this work was to study preservation of nitrogen and sulfur and passivation of heavy metals during sewage sludge composting with KH2PO4 and FeSO4. The results show the loss rate of N decreased by 27.5% while that of S was increased by 32.1% compared with the control treatment during composting when KH2PO4 and FeSO4 were added. X-ray absorption near-edge structure spectra show that S was converted to a highly oxidizable state during sewage sludge composting with added KH2PO4. The mobility factors of Cu, Zn, and Pb after composting were found to decrease by 13.6%, 21.6%, and 3.8%, respectively, compared with those before composting when KH2PO4 was added. Adding these two materials to Cu and Zn inhibits Zn3(PO4)2(H2O)4 and Cu5(PO4)2(OH)4 from transforming into more mobile forms, while adding these materials to Pb promotes Pb3(PO4)2 formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiankai Wang
- Center for Environmental Remediation, Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Tongbin Chen
- Center for Environmental Remediation, Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Guodi Zheng
- Center for Environmental Remediation, Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
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Ge J, Huang G, Sun X, Yin H, Han L. New insights into the kinetics of bacterial growth and decay in pig manure-wheat straw aerobic composting based on an optimized PMA-qPCR method. Microb Biotechnol 2019; 12:502-514. [PMID: 30838800 PMCID: PMC6465228 DOI: 10.1111/1751-7915.13380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2018] [Revised: 01/01/2019] [Accepted: 02/04/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Aerobic composting is a bacteria-driven process to degrade and recycle wastes. This study quantified the kinetics of bacterial growth and decay during pig manure-wheat straw composting, which may provide insights into microbial reaction mechanisms and composting operations. First, a propidium monoazide-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PMA-qPCR) method was developed to quantify the viable bacteria concentration of composting samples. The optimal PMA concentration and light exposure time were 100 μM and 8 min respectively. Subsequently, the concentrations of total and decayed bacteria were quantified. Viable and decayed bacteria coexisted during the entire composting period (experiments A and B), and the proportion of viable bacteria finally fell to only 35.1%. At the beginning, bacteria grew logarithmically and decayed rapidly. Later, the bacterial growth in experiment A remained stable, while that of experiment B was stable at first and then decomposed. The duration of the stable stage was positively related to the soluble sugar content of composting materials. The logarithmic growth and rapid decay of bacteria followed Monod equations with a specific growth (0.0317 ± 0.0033 h-1 ) and decay rate (0.0019 ± 0.0000 h-1 ). The findings better identified the bacterial growth stages and might enable better prediction of composting temperatures and the degree of maturation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinyi Ge
- Biomass Resources and Utilization LaboratoryCollege of EngineeringChina Agricultural University (East Campus)Beijing100083China
- Department of Civil and Environmental EngineeringPrinceton UniversityPrincetonNJ08540USA
| | - Guangqun Huang
- Biomass Resources and Utilization LaboratoryCollege of EngineeringChina Agricultural University (East Campus)Beijing100083China
| | - Xiaoxi Sun
- Biomass Resources and Utilization LaboratoryCollege of EngineeringChina Agricultural University (East Campus)Beijing100083China
| | - Hongjie Yin
- Biomass Resources and Utilization LaboratoryCollege of EngineeringChina Agricultural University (East Campus)Beijing100083China
| | - Lujia Han
- Biomass Resources and Utilization LaboratoryCollege of EngineeringChina Agricultural University (East Campus)Beijing100083China
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Wang X, Zheng G, Chen T, Nie E, Wang Y, Shi X, Liu J. Application of ceramsite and activated alumina balls as recyclable bulking agents for sludge composting. CHEMOSPHERE 2019; 218:42-51. [PMID: 30469003 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2018.11.103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2018] [Revised: 10/16/2018] [Accepted: 11/14/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Composting is a major sludge-treatment method and bulking agents are very important in sludge composting. In this study, ceramsite and activated alumina balls were chosen as recyclable bulking agents for sludge composting. Variations in the temperature, pH, electrical conductivity, organic matter, dissolved organic carbon, moisture content, and heavy metals were detected during composting with different bulking-agent treatments as well as differences in the germination index values. The results showed that both bulking agents could ensure the maturity of the compost; further, ceramsite treatment resulted in the best water removal efficiency. According to the sequential extraction procedure, both ceramsite and activated alumina balls could stabilize Cd but they also increased the mobility of Zn. After comparing the effects of different particle sizes of ceramsite on composting, 20 mm was determined to be the most optimal value. Additionally, the recovery rates of ceramsite and activated alumina balls were 96.9% and 99.9%, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiankai Wang
- Center for Environmental Remediation, Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China; College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Guodi Zheng
- Center for Environmental Remediation, Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China; College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
| | - Tongbin Chen
- Center for Environmental Remediation, Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China; College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Erqi Nie
- Center for Environmental Remediation, Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China; College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Yuewei Wang
- Center for Environmental Remediation, Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China; College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Shi
- Center for Environmental Remediation, Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China; College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Junwan Liu
- Center for Environmental Remediation, Institute of Geographic Sciences and Natural Resources Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China; College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
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Viaene J, Reubens B, Willekens K, Van Waes C, De Neve S, Vandecasteele B. Potential of chopped heath biomass and spent growth media to replace wood chips as bulking agent for composting high N-containing residues. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2017; 197:338-350. [PMID: 28402916 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2017.03.086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2016] [Revised: 03/23/2017] [Accepted: 03/27/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
We investigated the potential of C-rich byproducts to replace wood chips as bulking agent (BA) during composting. The impact of these alternatives on the composting process and on compost stability and characteristics was assessed. Three BA (chopped heath biomass and spent growth media used in strawberry and tomato cultivation) were used for processing leek residues in windrow composting. All BA resulted in stable composts with an organic matter (OM) content suitable for use as soil amendment. Using chopped heath biomass led to high pile temperatures and OM degradation and a nutrient-poor compost with high C/P ratio appropriate for increasing soil organic carbon content in P-rich soils. Spent substrates can replace wood chips, however, due to their dense structure and lower biodegradation potential, adding a more coarse BA is required. Generally, the nutrient content of the composts with growth media was higher than the composts with wood chips and chopped heath biomass.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Viaene
- Flanders Research Institute for Agricultural, Fisheries and Food, Plant Sciences Unit, Crop Husbandry and Environment, Burg. Van Gansberghelaan 109, 9820, Merelbeke, Belgium; Department of Soil Management, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - B Reubens
- Flanders Research Institute for Agricultural, Fisheries and Food, Plant Sciences Unit, Crop Husbandry and Environment, Burg. Van Gansberghelaan 109, 9820, Merelbeke, Belgium.
| | - K Willekens
- Flanders Research Institute for Agricultural, Fisheries and Food, Plant Sciences Unit, Crop Husbandry and Environment, Burg. Van Gansberghelaan 109, 9820, Merelbeke, Belgium.
| | - C Van Waes
- Flanders Research Institute for Agricultural, Fisheries and Food, Plant Sciences Unit, Crop Husbandry and Environment, Burg. Van Gansberghelaan 109, 9820, Merelbeke, Belgium.
| | - S De Neve
- Department of Soil Management, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - B Vandecasteele
- Flanders Research Institute for Agricultural, Fisheries and Food, Plant Sciences Unit, Crop Husbandry and Environment, Burg. Van Gansberghelaan 109, 9820, Merelbeke, Belgium.
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12
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Viaene J, Nelissen V, Reubens B, Willekens K, Driehuis F, De Neve S, Vandecasteele B. Improving the product stability and fertilizer value of cattle slurry solid fraction through co-composting or co-ensiling. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2017; 61:494-505. [PMID: 28057418 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2016.12.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2016] [Revised: 12/18/2016] [Accepted: 12/21/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Separating dairy cattle slurry in a liquid and solid fraction (SF) is gaining more interest, since it enables a more targeted use of both fractions. However, the valorization of the SF is limited on P-rich soils, due to its high P content, and the export or use as bedding material requires sanitation. Therefore, we investigated the influence of composting or ensiling the SF, whether or not mixed with bulking agents, on the product quality in terms of fertilizer value, sanitation and stability. Ensiling can be considered as a controlled storage method for conserving C and nutrients. Soil amendment with co-ensiled SF resulted in a higher N mineralization and crop growth compared to amendment of co-composted SF. Co-composting SF with structure-rich feedstock materials optimized the composting process and sanitation when compared with composting pure SF and did not increase the risk for extreme-heat-resistant spores of thermophilic aerobic spore-forming bacteria (X-TAS). Further, the composts contained more P per unit of fresh weight than the silages, beneficial for the export of the composted SF. The oxygen uptake rate was found to be less powerful to determine the stability of fresh, composted and ensiled SF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jarinda Viaene
- Institute for Agricultural and Fisheries Research, Plant Sciences Unit, Crop Husbandry and Environment, Burg. Van Gansberghelaan 109, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium; Department of Soil Management, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Victoria Nelissen
- Institute for Agricultural and Fisheries Research, Plant Sciences Unit, Crop Husbandry and Environment, Burg. Van Gansberghelaan 109, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium.
| | - Bert Reubens
- Institute for Agricultural and Fisheries Research, Plant Sciences Unit, Crop Husbandry and Environment, Burg. Van Gansberghelaan 109, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium.
| | - Koen Willekens
- Institute for Agricultural and Fisheries Research, Plant Sciences Unit, Crop Husbandry and Environment, Burg. Van Gansberghelaan 109, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium.
| | - Frank Driehuis
- NIZO Food Research BV, Kernhemseweg 2, 6718 ZB Ede, The Netherlands.
| | - Stefaan De Neve
- Department of Soil Management, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Bart Vandecasteele
- Institute for Agricultural and Fisheries Research, Plant Sciences Unit, Crop Husbandry and Environment, Burg. Van Gansberghelaan 109, 9820 Merelbeke, Belgium.
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Vandecasteele B, Boogaerts C, Vandaele E. Combining woody biomass for combustion with green waste composting: Effect of removal of woody biomass on compost quality. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2016; 58:169-180. [PMID: 27650630 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2016.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2016] [Revised: 09/06/2016] [Accepted: 09/11/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The question was tackled on how the green waste compost industry can optimally apply the available biomass resources for producing both bioenergy by combustion of the woody fraction, and high quality soil improvers as renewable sources of carbon and nutrients. Compost trials with removal of woody biomass before or after composting were run at 9 compost facilities during 3 seasons to include seasonal variability of feedstock. The project focused on the changes in feedstock and the effect on the end product characteristics (both compost and recovered woody biomass) of this woody biomass removal. The season of collection during the year clearly affected the biochemical and chemical characteristics of feedstock, woody biomass and compost. On one hand the effect of removal of the woody fraction before composting did not significantly affect compost quality when compared to the scenario where the woody biomass was sieved from the compost at the end of the composting process. On the other hand, quality of the woody biomass was not strongly affected by extraction before or after composting. The holocellulose:lignin ratio was used in this study as an indicator for (a) the decomposition potential of the feedstock mixture and (b) to assess the stability of the composts at the end of the process. Higher microbial activity in green waste composts (indicated by higher oxygen consumption) and thus a lower compost stability resulted in higher N immobilization in the compost. Removal of woody biomass from the green waste before composting did not negatively affect the compost quality when more intensive composting was applied. The effect of removal of the woody fraction on the characteristics of the green waste feedstock and the extracted woody biomass is depending on the season of collection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bart Vandecasteele
- Institute for Agricultural and Fisheries Research (ILVO), Plant Sciences Unit, Burg. van Gansberghelaan109, B-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium.
| | - Christophe Boogaerts
- Vlaco vzw, Flemish Compost and Anaerobic Digestion Organization, Stationsstraat 110, B-2800 Mechelen, Belgium
| | - Elke Vandaele
- Vlaco vzw, Flemish Compost and Anaerobic Digestion Organization, Stationsstraat 110, B-2800 Mechelen, Belgium
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Soares MAR, Quina MJ, Quinta-Ferreira R. Influence of N-rich material in valorization of industrial eggshell by co-composting. ENVIRONMENTAL TECHNOLOGY 2016; 37:2773-2785. [PMID: 27087575 DOI: 10.1080/09593330.2016.1164251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2015] [Accepted: 03/05/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Industrial eggshell (ES) is an animal by-product (ABP) involving some risk if not properly managed. Composting is a possible treatment approved for its safe use. This study aims to assess the influence of using N-rich material (grass clippings (GC)) to improve co-composting of ES mixtures for reaching sanitizing temperatures imposed by the ABP regulation from the European Union. Two sets of mixtures (M1 and M2) were investigated, each containing industrial potato peel waste, GC and rice husks at 3:1.9:1 and 3:0:1 ratios by wet weight. In each set, ES composition ranged from 0% to 30% (w/w). Co-composting trials were performed in self-heating reactors for 25 days, followed by maturation in piles. Results showed that only M1 trials attained temperatures higher than 70°C for nine consecutive hours, but N-losses by stripping on average were four- to five-fold higher than M2. In the absence of N-rich material, biodegradability of mixtures was 'low' to 'moderate' and organic matter conversion was impaired. Physical, chemical and phytotoxic properties of finished composts were suitable for soil improvement, but M1 took 54 more days to achieve maturity. In conclusion, co-composting ES with N-rich materials is important to assure the fulfilment of sanitizing requirements, avoiding any additional thermal treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Micaela A R Soares
- a CIEPQPF - Research Centre on Chemical Processes Engineering and Forest Products, Department of Chemical Engineering , University of Coimbra , Coimbra , Portugal
| | - Margarida J Quina
- a CIEPQPF - Research Centre on Chemical Processes Engineering and Forest Products, Department of Chemical Engineering , University of Coimbra , Coimbra , Portugal
| | - Rosa Quinta-Ferreira
- a CIEPQPF - Research Centre on Chemical Processes Engineering and Forest Products, Department of Chemical Engineering , University of Coimbra , Coimbra , Portugal
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15
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Zhang S, Chen Z, Wen Q, Ma J, He Z. Assessment of maturity during co-composting of penicillin mycelial dreg via fluorescence excitation-emission matrix spectra: Characteristics of chemical and fluorescent parameters of water-extractable organic matter. CHEMOSPHERE 2016; 155:358-366. [PMID: 27135697 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2016.04.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2016] [Revised: 04/10/2016] [Accepted: 04/13/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
To investigate characteristics of water-extractable organic matter (WEOM) from different stages and evaluate the maturity for co-composting penicillin mycelial dreg (PMD) via fluorescence regional integration (FRI) of fluorescence excitation-emission matrix (EEM), a pilot-scale co-composting was carried out. The results showed that a classical temperature profile showed and a degradation rate of 98.1% for residual penicillin was obtained on the 6th day. DOC and DOC/DON ratio were in a low level of 4.0 g kg(-1) and 3.7, respectively, after the 32nd day. In addition, respirometric rate (SOUR) decreased to 0.87 mg O2 g(-1) VS h(-1) finally. The EEM showed that the specific Ex/Em peak related to microbial byproduct-like vanished on the 32nd day, while those related to fulvic-like and humic acid-like appearing on the 24th day. The fluorescence regional integration (FRI) results demonstrated that PV,n/PIII,n increased to 3.28 finally, suggesting a desirable maturity for co-composting PMD. The EEM-FRI consequently has the potential for characterizing the WEOM from the co-composting of PMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shihua Zhang
- School of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Anhui University of Technology, Ma'anshan 243002, China; State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment (SKLUWRE), Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China.
| | - Zhiqiang Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment (SKLUWRE), Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Qinxue Wen
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment (SKLUWRE), Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China.
| | - Jiangya Ma
- School of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Anhui University of Technology, Ma'anshan 243002, China
| | - Zhonghua He
- School of Civil Engineering and Architecture, Anhui University of Technology, Ma'anshan 243002, China
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Vandecasteele B, Sinicco T, D'Hose T, Vanden Nest T, Mondini C. Biochar amendment before or after composting affects compost quality and N losses, but not P plant uptake. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2016; 168:200-9. [PMID: 26708650 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2015.11.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2015] [Revised: 11/15/2015] [Accepted: 11/19/2015] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
We investigated the use of biochar (10% on a dry weight basis) to improve the composting process and/or the compost quality by adding it to either the feedstock mixture or the mature compost. The addition of biochar to the feedstocks was essayed in a full scale trial using a mixture of green waste and the organic fraction of municipal solid waste. Addition of biochar to mature compost was performed in a medium scale experiment. The use of biochar, even in small amounts, changed the composting process and the properties of the end products. However these effects depended on the time of application. We observed a faster decomposition in the bio-oxidative phase and lower greenhouse gas emissions when biochar was added at the beginning of the composting process, and a reduction in readily available P when biochar was applied during compost storage. Biochar as a means to increase the C content of the compost was only effective during compost storage. The P fertilizer replacement value of the compost with and without biochar was tested in a plant trial with annual ryegrass. While there was a clear effect on readily available P concentrations in the compost, adding biochar to the feedstock or the compost did not affect the P fertilizer replacement value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bart Vandecasteele
- Institute for Agricultural and Fisheries Research (ILVO), Plant Sciences Unit, Caritasstraat 21, Melle, Belgium.
| | - Tania Sinicco
- Consiglio per la ricerca in agricoltura e l'analisi dell'economia agraria, CRA-RPS, Via Trieste 23, 34170 Gorizia, Italy
| | - Tommy D'Hose
- Institute for Agricultural and Fisheries Research (ILVO), Plant Sciences Unit, Caritasstraat 21, Melle, Belgium
| | - Thijs Vanden Nest
- Institute for Agricultural and Fisheries Research (ILVO), Plant Sciences Unit, Caritasstraat 21, Melle, Belgium
| | - Claudio Mondini
- Consiglio per la ricerca in agricoltura e l'analisi dell'economia agraria, CRA-RPS, Via Trieste 23, 34170 Gorizia, Italy
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Uçaroğlu S, Alkan U. Composting of wastewater treatment sludge with different bulking agents. JOURNAL OF THE AIR & WASTE MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION (1995) 2016; 66:288-295. [PMID: 26651372 DOI: 10.1080/10962247.2015.1131205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED The main objectives of this study were to investigate the compostability of wastewater treatment sludge (WTS) containing different bulking agents (BAs) and to determine the most efficient BA. Four different compost trials consisting of mixtures of wheat straw (WS), plane leaf (PL), corncob (CC) and sunflower stalk (SS) with WTS were performed in laboratory reactors. In all experiments, a mixture of 60% WTS and 40% BA (wet basis) was used. The temperature, dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), pH, electrical conductivity (EC) and C/N ratio were monitored during the composting process. Evaluation of the operational parameters showed that the highest organic matter degradation (i.e. 37.6%), loss of dry matter (i.e. 29.6%) and temperature (i.e. 64 °C) were achieved for the WTS-CC mixtures. Results also showed that the WTS-SS mixture was also successful in terms of these operational parameters. Use of bulking agents for the treatment of wastewater treatment sludge in composting process is an important issue with regards to process efficiency, economy and disposal of agricultural waste. Corncob and sunflower stalk that were previously not used for the composting of WTS from food industry were shown to be highly successful BA materials in this study. IMPLICATIONS The compostability of wastewater treatment sludge from the food industry with different bulking agents was studied. Wheat straw, plane leaf, corncob, and sunflower stalk were used as bulking agents. The required microbial stabilization and degree of mineralization were achieved with corncobs and sunflower stalks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selnur Uçaroğlu
- a Uludag University, Faculty of Engineering , Department of Environmental Engineering , Nilufer , Bursa , Turkey
| | - Ufuk Alkan
- a Uludag University, Faculty of Engineering , Department of Environmental Engineering , Nilufer , Bursa , Turkey
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Lim LY, Bong CPC, Chua LS, Lee CT. Physicochemical profile of microbial-assisted composting on empty fruit bunches of oil palm trees. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2015; 22:19814-19822. [PMID: 26286798 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-015-5156-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2015] [Accepted: 08/04/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
This study was carried out to investigate the physicochemical properties of compost from oil palm empty fruit bunches (EFB) inoculated with effective microorganisms (EM∙1™). The duration of microbial-assisted composting was shorter (∼7 days) than control samples (2 months) in a laboratory scale (2 kg) experiment. The temperature profile of EFB compost fluctuated between 26 and 52 °C without the presence of consistent thermophilic phase. The pH of compost changed from weak acidic (pH ∼5) to mild alkaline (pH ∼8) because of the formation of nitrogenous ions such as ammonium (NH4 (+)), nitrite (NO2 (-)), and nitrate (NO3 (-)) from organic substances during mineralization. The pH of the microbial-treated compost was less than 8.5 which is important to prevent the loss of nitrogen as ammonia gas in a strong alkaline condition. Similarly, carbon mineralization could be determined by measuring CO2 emission. The microbial-treated compost could maintain longer period (∼13 days) of high CO2 emission resulted from high microbial activity and reached the threshold value (120 mg CO2-C kg(-1) day(-1)) for compost maturity earlier (7 days). Microbial-treated compost slightly improved the content of minerals such as Mg, K, Ca, and B, as well as key metabolite, 5-aminolevulinic acid for plant growth at the maturity stage of compost. Graphical Abstract Microbial-assisted composting on empty fruit bunches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Yee Lim
- Metabolites Profiling Laboratory, Institute of Bioproduct Development, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310 UTM Skudai, Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Cassendra Phun Chien Bong
- Department of Bioprocess Engineering, Faculty of Chemical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310 UTM Skudai, Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
| | - Lee Suan Chua
- Metabolites Profiling Laboratory, Institute of Bioproduct Development, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310 UTM Skudai, Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia.
- Department of Bioprocess Engineering, Faculty of Chemical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310 UTM Skudai, Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia.
| | - Chew Tin Lee
- Department of Bioprocess Engineering, Faculty of Chemical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310 UTM Skudai, Johor Bahru, Johor, Malaysia
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Stanford K, Reuter T, Gilroyed B, McAllister T. Impacts of sporulation temperature, exposure to compost matrix and temperature on survival of Bacillus cereus
spores during livestock mortality composting. J Appl Microbiol 2015; 118:989-97. [DOI: 10.1111/jam.12749] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2014] [Revised: 12/19/2014] [Accepted: 12/24/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- K. Stanford
- Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development; Lethbridge AB Canada
| | - T. Reuter
- Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development; Lethbridge AB Canada
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Cukjati N, Zupančič GD, Roš M, Grilc V. Composting of anaerobic sludge: an economically feasible element of a sustainable sewage sludge management. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2012; 106:48-55. [PMID: 22562011 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2012.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2011] [Revised: 01/31/2012] [Accepted: 04/01/2012] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
An investigation into the feasibility of anaerobic sludge composting, as a sustainable treatment of sewage sludge management, was carried out under actual Slovenian environmental conditions. In order to demonstrate successful composting, five pilot plant experiments were performed during the summer and winter conditions. The first three experiments were performed with pile aeration, while experiments 4 and 5 were carried out by pile turning. Anaerobic sludge to bulking agent ratios were set at 1-6.4:1. The composting was successful and thermophilic temperature being achieved in all cases. In winter conditions, the composting process was prolonged; and low ambient temperatures had a significant impact in pile turning experiments. During winter, a temperature drop of 30 °C during turning of the material doubled the necessary time for an adequate composting process. Five scenarios were considered within an economic feasibility study and in the most favourable scenario, where 60% of compost was commercialised and 40% was used as landfill cover. The payback period in this scenario was 2.9 years. The study of compost quality showed that it can be used in variety of civil engineering applications, especially as a landfill cover and for recultivation of degraded areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Cukjati
- Public Utility Company Velenje Ltd, Koroška 37 b, SI-3320 Velenje, Slovenia.
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Dehghani R, Asadi MA, Charkhloo E, Mostafaie G, Saffari M, Mousavi GA, Pourbabaei M. Identification of Fungal Communities in Producing Compost by Windrow Method. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012. [DOI: 10.4236/jep.2012.31008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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