[USCC] aerobic composting, definitiion

[Eliot Epstein]

Based on our studies since 1975 we found that if the oxygen levels in piles
are below 5% we can have anaerobic conditions. This does not mean that the
entire pile or windrow is anaerobic. According to data by USEPA and others
under those conditions the small amount of methane that could be generated
is oxidized befor going into the atmosphere. I believe that pile oxygen
leves should exceed 10%.  Obviously if temperatures are excessive addition
air is needed and consequently oxygen levels will be higher.

Eliot

-----Original Message-----
From: compost-bounces at mailman.cloudnet.com
[mailto:compost-bounces at mailman.cloudnet.com] On Behalf Of John A. Crockett
Sent: Wednesday, March 11, 2009 11:56 AM
To: U.S. Composting Council listserve
Subject: [USCC] aerobic composting, definitiion


There is a lot of discussion on anaerobic and aerobic.

What is the specific definition of aerobic composting in terms of the oxygen
level in the compost?  Is it 5% oxygen, 10%, 15%?  What CO2 levels are still
acceptable under the definition of "aerobic"?  OR, is there no such
definition?

I strive for 1 - 2% CO2 in the off-gas, and I base that on assaying the
active bacteria population, and the fact that we've gotten our best
populations of active bacteria when the CO2 in the off-gas was less than 4%.

We've also had many cases where in the early days of the process, we've
sustained temperatures > 150°F with a rate of aeration > 25 times the volume
of the compost, in fresh air, every hour, in order to hold the CO2 within
those limits.  

Working Together to Create a Sustainable Environment,
John A. Crockett, a.k.a. Dr. Mike Robe
Mother Nature's Farms
(845) 225-7763
http://www.magicsoil.com/
jac at magicsoil.com
  

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