The quantity of oxygen in a windrow determines how the process of aerobic biodegradation takes place, and the type and concentration of the products resulting from it.

During metabolism, micro-organisms consume oxygen to decompose organic waste. However, the more the level of oxygen differs from that of the ambient air, the higher the production of odiferous compounds.

In the initial phases of the process, optimal composting is achieved for 30% - 36% of the pore space in the compost mass.

The speed at which the oxygen is transferred from the pore space to micro-organisms determines how quickly the process of aerobic biodegradation takes place. Of the various types of gas present in pore volume, the consumption of oxygen is the only reliable parameter for determining how quickly a composting mass is developing.

In addition, the quantity of oxygen in a windrow also determines the type and concentration of the products resulting from it.

It is vital to measure and monitor the concentration of oxygen in order to act at the right time to ensure the aeration of the compost windrow before it begins to decay.

The quantity of oxygen in a windrow determines how the process of aerobic biodegradation takes place, and the type and concentration of the products resulting from it.

The more advanced degradation becomes and the more the level of oxygen differs from that of the ambient air, the higher the production of odiferous compounds. That is why it is advisable to ventilate the compost windrow regularly, either using a forced ventilation system or by turning the windrow. But how can I decide on the best time to ventilate?

Recommended oxygen concentrations for the different phases of composting are shown in the following diagram:

Systematically ventilating the compost windrow without taking any measurements of pore oxygen can be dangerous and costly.

Umic oxygen measuring probes mean that you can choose the ideal moment for aeration.

Click here to discover UMIC's oxygen measuring probes.

Another parameter should also be measured by professional composters: temperature. The temperature of a windrow plays a key role in the diversity of microbial species which differ in their ability to degrade. When the temperature is under control, the composted matter is hygienised.

Click here to find out more about the role that temperature plays in compost.

>> Taking measurements at different points in the windrow and at different depths, from the top to the side.

>> Sink the rod into the compost and leave it for the amount of time necessary to obtain a stable measurement. 5 minutes will generally suffice and no prior calibration is required.

>> Detect pockets which are nearing an anaerobic state - these need more careful supervision as the compost might begin to decay and generate nauseating odours.

>> Record the data collected in the form of tables or graphics so that you can track developments and ventilate at a suitable moment.

UMIC has designed an integrated system which does everything for you, from measurement to switching on the ventilators, using intelligent regulation of oxygen and temperature. Coupled with UMIC F1, F2 or F3, UMIC Aero is THE SOLUTION for optimal compost management.

Aero software manages a forced ventilation system with 4 modes of operation: - control and regulation by temperature - control and regulation by oxygen concentration - regulation using a time-out - manual regulation.

Discover what UMIC Aero can do for you.