Composting Process

The composting process is the process that the aerobic decomposition/conversion of organic matter by different microorganisms into CO₂, H₂O (water vapor form), NH₃, nutrients (such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium), and stable humic-like substances. One of the most important parameters affecting the composting process is the carbon-to-nitrogen (C/N) ratio. Phosphorus is the second most important parameter followed by sulfur, calcium, and trace metals. These parameters play a vital role in many aspects of cellular metabolism. The microorganisms responsible for the stabilization of organic matter have a C/N ratio of 30:1. Therefore, the C/N ratio of initial composting materials ranging from 25 to 30 is considered most satisfactory for the composting process. For efficient aeration of composting materials, a small particle size is required to provide supportive conditions to bacteria, fungi, and actinomycetes. The moisture content of the composting mixture generally occupies the free air space between the particles.