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Updated: Sep 14, 2025
Physical, Chemical and Biological Characterization of Six Biochars Produced for the Remediation of Contaminated Sites
Published on: November 28, 2014
Comprehensive evaluation framework for compost maturity with biochar amendment
Jianmei Zou1, Yihao Hua1, Yushu Cheng2
1College of Environmental Sciences, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China; Sichuan Provincial Engineering Research Center of Agricultural Non-point Source Pollution Control, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, Sichuan 611130, PR China.
Machine learning models accurately predict compost maturity, identifying key factors like moisture and temperature. This framework improves composting processes for safer agriculture and environmental management.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Agricultural Science
- Data Science
Background:
- Compost maturity evaluation faces inconsistencies, hindering effective application.
- Biochar amendment complicates traditional maturity assessments.
Purpose of the Study:
- Develop a predictive framework for biochar-amended compost maturity.
- Enhance accuracy and consistency in compost maturity evaluation.
Main Methods:
- Combined machine learning (Gradient Boosting, Extra Trees, XGBoost) and weighting techniques.
- Utilized SHAP analysis to identify key influencing parameters (moisture, temperature, pH).
- Validated model performance using cosine similarity and real-world composting trials.
Main Results:
- Nonlinear models demonstrated superior prediction accuracy for compost maturity.
- Gradient Boosting, Extra Trees, and XGBoost achieved high R² values for C/N ratio, GI, NO₃⁻-N, and NH₄⁺-N.
- Moisture content, temperature, and pH were identified as critical drivers of maturity.
Conclusions:
- The predictive framework offers enhanced accuracy for compost maturity assessment.
- An integrated maturity score highlighted Glycine Index (GI) as the most influential factor.
- The study advances intelligent composting, safer agriculture, and environmental management.
