Novel static composting method for bioremediation of olive mill waste

Roberto Altieri, Alessandro Esposito, Tan Nair

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    27 Citations (Scopus)

    Abstract

    This paper presents results obtained on the evaluation of static composting process aimed at bioremediation of the hazardous solid olive mill waste (OMW). The static composting process carried out in gas-permeable polyethylene bags followed the fluctuating temperature and oxygen profiles similar to those seen in aerated composting systems. Static composting resulted in apparent increases and decreases in values for total nitrogen and C:N ratios respectively during the process. The amount of nitrogen (>3%) in the composting end product was in agreement with the Italian legislation (Decreto Legislativo 29 aprile 2010, n. 75) specification for nitrogen fertilizer. A gradual decrease in polyphenols during the storage of compost resulted in a non-phytotoxic composted organic matter high in humic substances. Different respirometric tests also stated high biological stability of the end compost product.
    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)786-789
    Number of pages4
    JournalInternational Biodeterioration and Biodegradation
    Volume65
    Issue number6
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - 2011

    Keywords

    • biodegradation
    • bioremediation
    • composting
    • humification
    • nitrogen
    • olive oil
    • olive oil industry
    • organic wastes
    • polyphenols
    • static composting
    • waste treatment

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