Optimizing Fertilizer Production: Co-Composting Faecal Sludge With Various Bulking Agents

Document Type : Original Research Paper

Authors

1 Associate Professor, & Head, Department of civil engineering, Dr. D. Y. Patil Prathisthan's college of engineering, Salokhenagar, Kolhapur, India

2 Professor & Head, Department of Civil Engineering, Jain College of Engineering, Belgaum-590018, Karnataka, India

3 Assistant Professor, School of Construction, NICMAR University, Pune, India

4 Associate Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, Annasaheb Dange College of Engineering & Technology, Ashta, Sangli, India

5 Assistant Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, Tatyasaheb Kore Institute of Engineering & Technology, Warananagar, Kolhapur, India

10.22059/poll.2025.379850.2508

Abstract

This research investigates the integration of locally available bulking agents—coconut shells, waste tea powder, banana peels, and sugarcane leaves—for co-composting fecal sludge (FS) alongside organic waste. The study involves physical, chemical, and heavy metal analysis of the bulking agents, followed by 91 days of aerobic composting with weekly sample collection and evaluation. The goal was to identify the optimum combination of these agents for producing nutrient-rich compost, particularly for nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). The compost prepared using a specific combination of these bulking agents met the key nutrient criteria, providing a viable solution for sustainable waste management.  Coconut shells enriched the compost with potassium, calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, enhancing soil structure and moisture retention. Waste tea powder, rich in nitrogen and potassium, promoted microbial activity and soil fertility. Banana peels contributed high levels of potassium and phosphorus, improving aeration and nutrient cycling, while sugarcane leaves enhanced soil health by contributing organic carbon, nitrogen, and potassium.  The study utilized tools like Python and Microsoft Excel for data analysis and visualization, enabling the establishment of reliable maturity indices for assessing compost stability and quality. These findings highlight the potential of using locally available organic waste materials to improve soil fertility and support sustainable agricultural practices.

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Main Subjects

References

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Pollution
Volume 11, Issue 3
July 2025
Pages 630-651

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