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Nutrient transformations during composting of pig manure with bentonite
Ronghua Li1, Jim J Wang, Zengqiang Zhang
1College of Resources and Environment, Northwest A& F University, Yangling, Shaanxi Province 712100, People's Republic of China.
Bioresource Technology
|August 7, 2012
Summary
Adding bentonite (BT) to pig manure compost improves organic matter degradation and nutrient content but can reduce seed germination. Less than 2.5% bentonite is recommended for optimal composting results.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Science
- Environmental Science
- Soil Science
Background:
- Composting is a sustainable method for managing animal manure.
- Nutrient transformation and pollutant reduction are key goals in composting.
- Bentonite is a clay mineral explored as an additive in composting.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the impact of varying bentonite (BT) quantities on nutrient changes during pig manure composting.
- To evaluate bentonite's effect on compost quality and potential environmental impacts.
Main Methods:
- Pig manure was composted with different proportions of bentonite.
- Compost parameters including temperature, pH, electrical conductivity (EC), moisture, organic matter (OM), total nitrogen (TN), and nitrate nitrogen (NO3-N) were monitored.
- Extractable heavy metal content and potherb mustard seed germination index (GI) were assessed.
Main Results:
- Bentonite addition did not significantly alter compost temperature or pH.
- EC, moisture, OM, TN, and NO3-N levels were notably influenced by bentonite.
- Bentonite facilitated OM degradation, increased total Kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN), and decreased the C/N ratio.
- Extractable heavy metals were reduced with increased bentonite, but potherb mustard seed GI decreased.
Conclusions:
- Bentonite addition positively affects key compost quality indicators and reduces heavy metals.
- A bentonite proportion below 2.5% is suggested for pig manure composting.
- Further research on optimal bentonite ratios in diverse waste composting is warranted.
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