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Development of functional composts using spent coffee grounds, poultry manure and biochar through microbial
S Aalfin Emmanuel1, Jangyeon Yoo2, Eok-Jo Kim3
1a Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering , Graduate School of Korea Maritime and Ocean University , Yeongdogu , Busan , South Korea.
Summary
Microbial bioaugmentation and biochar amendment accelerate composting of agricultural waste, enhancing compost maturity and crop quality. This novel method offers eco-friendly recycling of organic materials like spent coffee grounds and poultry manure.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Science
- Environmental Science
- Microbiology
Background:
- Organic waste management is a global challenge.
- Composting is a sustainable method for waste recycling.
- Enhancing compost quality and accelerating the process are key research areas.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the efficacy of microbial bioaugmentation and biochar amendment in producing functional compost.
- To assess the impact of this novel composting technology on compost maturity, microbial diversity, and crop yield.
- To evaluate the potential of the functional compost as a substitute for commercial organic fertilizers.
Main Methods:
- Spent coffee grounds, poultry manure, and agricultural waste-derived biochar were used.
- Four pilot-scale composting reactors were employed for 45 days.
- Microbial bioaugmentation and biochar amendment were applied to assess compost maturity (NH4+-N/NO3--N ratios), germination indices, microbial diversity, and antioxidant properties (DPPH scavenging activity, total phenolic content).
Main Results:
- Microbial bioaugmentation and biochar amendment significantly accelerated composting, indicated by NH4+-N/NO3--N ratios.
- Radish germination indices increased by 14-34%, and microbial diversity was enhanced by 7.1-8.9%.
- Composts significantly improved DPPH scavenging activity and total phenolic content in crops like pepper and leeks, outperforming commercial organic fertilizers.
Conclusions:
- The novel composting technology effectively utilizes organic wastes, shortening composting time and improving compost quality.
- Functional compost produced through this method demonstrates significant potential to replace commercial organic fertilizers.
- This approach offers a sustainable and eco-friendly solution for recycling diverse organic wastes.