Influence of the feedstock material on the compost maturity, stability and reactivity

Abstract

Compost samples from different origins have been characterized in order to obtain information about their composition, humic-like substances content, maturity and stability. The composts used in the present study were obtained from manure (CAP), algae (CA), domestic waste (VCRU), sewage sludge (CT) and animal waste (CE). Different techniques have been used to gather physical-chemical parameters of the raw composts, their equilibrium solutions and the extracted humic-like substances. The analysis of the parameters collected in the characterization process allowed to stablish the degree of maturity and stability of the composts. Results indicate that the compost originated from algae exhibits the highest degree of maturity. Also, metal complexation was analyzed in the CE compost with the aim of assessing the contribution of the different fractions of dissolved organic matter.