Kitchen waste is characterized by high moisture content (often over 70%), a high organic matter content, and a low carbon-to-nitrogen (C/N) ratio, typically around 13. During the composting process, microorganisms break down organic materials within a thin liquid film that forms on the surface of the waste particles. If the moisture level is too high, it can restrict air flow, leading to anaerobic conditions. This causes incomplete microbial metabolism, resulting in unpleasant odors. On the other hand, if the C/N ratio is too low, the compost may accumulate ammonia or other nitrogenous compounds, which not only leads to nitrogen loss but also contributes to bad smells, negatively affecting the overall composting environment.
Due to its high organic content, kitchen waste requires significant oxygen for decomposition. Oxygen is supplied through the pores between the composting material particles. However, oxygen diffuses about 10,000 times faster in gas than in liquid, making proper aeration critical. Ensuring the right porosity, moisture level, and C/N ratio in the compost pile is essential for efficient and odor-free composting. Adding a bulking agent can significantly improve the structure of the pile, enhance its water-holding capacity, increase porosity, and balance the C/N ratio, creating an ideal environment for microbial activity.
From the test results, dry horse manure and sawdust proved to be the most effective bulking agents. They not only enhance the porosity of the pile but also absorb excess moisture, maintaining a stable structure and supporting microbial growth. Straw helps improve porosity, but its ability to manage excess water is limited. As the composting process continues, the pores tend to fill with water from decomposing organic matter, reducing oxygen availability and slowing down the process.
Therefore, adding the right bulking agent is crucial for successful composting. It improves the composting environment, enhances the pile's structure, absorbs excess moisture, increases porosity, and adjusts the C/N ratio. This creates a better habitat for microorganisms, promoting a diverse and stable microbial population that accelerates the breakdown of organic matter. As a result, composting efficiency improves, and the production of foul gases like Hâ‚‚S is effectively reduced.
Using dry horse manure and sawdust as bulking agents has shown superior performance compared to the control group, with higher temperatures, longer retention time, greater oxygen consumption, and higher COâ‚‚ production. The concentration of Hâ‚‚S at the outlet was also very low. Incorporating bulking agents into kitchen waste composting is a promising method worth further research and application.
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