Quality evaluation and characterization of organic compost suitable for agricultural utilization

Abstract

Purpose: This study assessed the marketability and suitability of compost produced from municipal solid waste (MSW) in Raipur, Chhattisgarh, India. Method: Atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) was used to assess the heavy metal analysis of the compost material, such as Zn, Cd, Cr, Ni, Cu, and Pb. X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), and Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) methods were used to estimate the compost's spectral properties. The study also aimed to evaluate the qualitative nature of the compost by using Fertilizer control order (FCO) standards. Results: On the 60th day of sampling, the Raipur city compost sample had a Fertility Index (FI) of 3.6 and a Clean Index (CI) of 4.0, respectively. Compost is categorized as class C, which means it represents good quality, has a high potential for fertility, and has medium-heavy metals. From the comparison, the Delhi compost sample was unsuitable for its intended purpose. Ahmadabad and Bangalore compost samples were suitable for use as green compost. Due to their low fertilising potential, Solan region compost samples cannot be used as fertilizer. Mandi region produced high-quality compost samples with low concentrations of heavy metals and moderate potential for fertilizer. Conclusions: Compost from Raipur MSW is a good choice for fertilizer because of its high potential for fertilization; heavy metal concentrations are moderate compared with FCO guidelines. The study finds that aerobic composting is a successful waste management technique that can lower the amount of organic waste dumped in landfills. Research Highlights • Evaluation of Aerobic Compost from Municipal Solid Waste (MSW): The study presents a comprehensive analysis of aerobic compost derived from MSW in Raipur city, Chhattisgarh, India, focusing on physico-chemical, heavy metal, and spectral properties. • Assessment of Suitability for Various Applications: The study's purpose is to evaluate the compost's suitability for applications such as agricultural use, landscaping, organic farming, and soil improvement. • Comprehensive investigation Methods: The compost's properties were meticulously investigated using a range of advanced techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), which provided a detailed and robust understanding of its composition. • Comparison with Other Indian Cities: The physico-chemical and heavy metal concentration properties of the compost from Raipur were compared with those from different Indian cities, offering insights into regional variations in compost quality. • Potential for Waste Management: The study highlights the potential of aerobic composting as a useful technique for waste management, emphasizing its role in reducing the amount of organic waste dumped at landfills, thus contributing to environmental sustainability.

Keywords

• Compost
• X-ray diffraction
• Scanning electron microscopy
• Heavy metal
• Fertility index
• Clean index