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COMPOST

The lab manual outlines the composting process, aiming to study the decomposition of organic waste into compost. Key objectives include understanding biological decomposition, analyzing composting conditions, and evaluating compost quality. The document details materials, procedures, observations, results, and precautions for effective composting, emphasizing its benefits for soil health and waste management.

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vedantsen25
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3 views4 pages

COMPOST

The lab manual outlines the composting process, aiming to study the decomposition of organic waste into compost. Key objectives include understanding biological decomposition, analyzing composting conditions, and evaluating compost quality. The document details materials, procedures, observations, results, and precautions for effective composting, emphasizing its benefits for soil health and waste management.

Uploaded by

vedantsen25
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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LAB MANUAL: COMPOSTING PROCESS

1. AIM

To study the process of composting and understand the


decomposition of organic waste into nutrient-rich compost.

2. OBJECTIVES

 To understand the biological decomposition process.


 To analyze the conditions required for effective composting.
 To evaluate the quality of compost obtained.

3. PRINCIPLE

Composting is a controlled process of decomposition of organic


matter by microorganisms under aerobic conditions. It converts
organic waste into humus-like material, improving soil fertility. The
key factors affecting composting are:

1. Carbon-to-Nitrogen (C:N) Ratio – Ideal ratio is 25:1 to 30:1.


2. Aeration – Ensures oxygen availability for microbes.
3. Moisture – Ideal moisture content is 40-60%.
4. Temperature – Composting occurs in mesophilic (20-45°C) and
thermophilic (45-70°C) phases.
5. Particle Size – Smaller particles decompose faster due to
increased surface area.

4. MATERIALS REQUIRED

 Organic waste (vegetable peels, fruit scraps, leaves, grass


clippings, etc.)
 Brown material (dry leaves, straw, shredded paper)
 A compost bin or pile
 Garden soil (as a microbial inoculant)
 Water spray bottle
 Thermometer
 Weighing balance
 pH meter (optional)

5. PROCEDURE

Step 1: Selection of Materials

 Collect green waste (rich in nitrogen) and brown waste (rich in


carbon).
 Shred larger materials to speed up decomposition.

Step 2: Layering the Compost Pile

 Create a base layer with brown materials.


 Add green waste over the brown layer.
 Sprinkle a thin layer of soil to introduce microorganisms.
 Repeat the layering process.

Step 3: Moisture Management

 The pile should be moist but not wet (like a wrung-out


sponge).
 Spray water if too dry or add dry material if too wet.

Step 4: Aeration

 Turn the pile every 3-4 days to ensure oxygen supply.


 Monitor temperature using a thermometer; it should reach 50-
60°C in the thermophilic stage.

Step 5: Monitoring Decomposition

 Observe changes in temperature, moisture, and smell.


 After 4-6 weeks, decomposition slows down, and compost
turns dark, crumbly, and earthy-smelling.
Step 6: Curing and Maturation

 Let the compost cure for 2-4 weeks before use.

6. OBSERVATIONS
Temperature Moisture
Day Odor Appearance
(°C) Level
1 25 Moist Mild Fresh waste visible

Strong earthy Partial


7 50 Damp
smell decomposition
Materials breaking
14 55 Moist Less odor
down

21 45 Moist Mild Almost crumbly


Dark brown
30 35 Damp No odor
compost

7. RESULTS

 The composted material is dark, crumbly, and has an earthy


smell.
 The C:N ratio is balanced, making it suitable for soil application.
 Proper aeration and moisture enhanced decomposition.

8. CONCLUSION

Composting is an eco-friendly method to manage organic waste,


enriching soil health and reducing landfill waste. The final compost
can be used as a natural fertilizer for plants.

9. PRECAUTIONS

 Avoid meat, dairy, and oily food waste as they attract pests.
 Maintain adequate aeration to prevent anaerobic conditions.
 Do not let the compost dry out completely.

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