Biochar amendment for batch composting of nitrogen rich organic waste: Effect on degradation kinetics, composting physics and nutritional properties

• Published in: Bioresource technology 2018-04, Vol.253, p.204-213
• Main Authors: Jain, Mayur Shirish, Jambhulkar, Rohit, Kalamdhad, Ajay S.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Air-filled porosity; Biochar; Composting; Hydrilla verticillata; Organic waste
• ISSN: 0960-8524; 1873-2976
• DOI: 10.1016/j.biortech.2018.01.038

[Display omitted] •Biochar is an inexpensive bulking agent for composting of nitrogen rich wastes.•Biochar enhanced organic matter degradation and improved nutritional properties.•Trial B (5% biochar addition) showed maximum temperature (59 °C).•Biochar addition improved physical properties by absorbing excess moisture.•Air-filled porosity was positively (r = 0.99) correlated with moisture content for trial B. Composting is an efficient technology to reduce pathogenic bodies and stabilize the organic matter in organic wastes. This research work investigates an effect of biochar as amendment to improve the composting efficiency and its effect on degradation kinetics, physical and nutritional properties. Biochar (2.5, 5 and 10% (w/w)) were added into a mixture of Hydrilla verticillata, cow dung and sawdust having ratio of 8:1:1 (control), respectively. Biochar addition resulted in advanced thermophilic temperatures (59 °C) and could improve the physical properties of composting process. Owing to addition of 5% biochar as a bulking agent in composting mixture, the final product from composting, total nitrogen increased by 45% compared to the other trials, and air-filled porosity decreased by 39% and was found to be within recommended range from literature studies. Considering temperature, degradation rate and nitrogen transformation the amendment of 5% biochar is recommended for Hydrilla verticillata composting.