Production

Composting is a controlled process that involves activity of thermophilic aerobic microorganisms (bacteria, actinomycetes, fungi, yeasts, protozoa, algae), and by means of which organic materials are transformed into disease-free, biologically stable product.

Composting contributes to resource recovery in addition to socially and environmentally safe waste management, contributing to global sustainable organic waste management. Energy, forest and agricultural industries have severe problems with waste management that can be addressed by compost production. Compared to increasing costs of traditional waste management compost production is a much better option with a growing number of applications.

Organic fertilizer production is an aerobic process (with oxygen access). Compost preparation is a biological process which transforms organic matter into a nutrient rich component to improve soil. During the process of active composting thermophilic temperatures (over 55ºС) are reached. Besides temperature and moisture conditions in compost, unbeneficial environment, created by many thermophilic microorganisms, kills pathogens.





There are four phases in the process of composting:

1. Synchronization

Composting starts with decomposition of ingredients (organic wastes). Some decompose faster than others do. Synchronization is needed to stimulate simultaneous decomposition of all the waste materials.

2. Decomposition

The raw material decomposes under the influence of heat, generated in chemical reactions in the process of composting as well as by microbial action. The most important aspect of this phase is transformation of ammonia into nitrites and finally into nitrites that can be taken up by plants.

3. Humus formation

Decomposing organic matter is polymerized by microorganisms, turning into a long molecular chain of humic components. Those humic substances, containing humic, fulvic acid and humus, have the major influence on soil fertility.

4. Stabilization

After chemical and biological activity is established, compost becomes stable.

Phases of composting