Evaluation of a new composting method in terms of its biodegradation pathway and assessment of compost quality, maturity and stability

Abstract

The need for scientific composting methods for effective utilization of organic waste is increasing day by day. In this respect, a new process called the Novcom composting method is being increasingly adopted by the organic tea planters of Assam and Darjeeling (India) for large-scale composting. Study of the biodegradation process under this method and quality evaluation of the end product was carried out at Maud tea estate (Assam) during 2008–2009 and 2009–2010. Generation of high temperatures (>65°C) within the compost heap during the biodegradation process provided an indication regarding the destruction of pathogens and weed seeds in the composted material. Samples collected on day 0, 7, 14, 21 and 30 of composting, were analyzed for physicochemical properties, nutrient status, microbial population, stability and phytotoxicity parameters. The most significant finding was the high microbial population (in the order of 1016 cfu g−1) in the final product, which was generated naturally during biodegradation. Assessment of the maturity and stability parameters of the compost indicated that biodegradation was complete in ∼3 weeks. The study provided an indication of the potential of the Novcom composting method for the production of good quality, stable and mature compost, within a short period.