III. Troubleshooting
|
| Proper design and good management practices can
prevent most problems in composting systems. Common problems
to avoid include odor, leachate or standing water and slow decomposition. |
 |
| Odor is the most prevalent problem at yard waste
composting sites. Avoiding prolonged anaerobic conditions helps
to minimize odor problems. Under anaerobic conditions, volatile
organic acids, alcohols, and ammonia and sulfur compounds can
be produced. The names of some of these compounds, like cadaverine
and putrescine, suggest the offensiveness of the odors they generate.
In contrast, when conditions are aerobic, the compost pile exudes
only a mild, earthy smell. |
 |
| Odors can develop when the windrow is too large.
When the windrow is first formed there is a high demand for oxygen
because of the abundant degradable matter. If the windrows are
too large, sufficient oxygen cannot penetrate through the windrow.
An anaerobic core develops as decomposition slows and acid fermentation,
or pickling, occurs, producing odors. |
 |
| If the piles become saturated, they will produce
leachate. These liquids are similar to those that occur during
decomposition in a forest, but they are more concentrated. Ideally,
the composting process will evaporate most of the available moisture
within a windrow, resulting in minimal excess liquids. (Special
thanks to Frank Flower) |
 |
| A gentle slope of 2-3% helps avoid ponding, which
can be a potential source of odor. However, slopes above 10%
can cause problems with erosion, vehicular access and equipment
operation. Windrows should run parallel to the slope rather than
across the slope to allow runoff to move between the piles rather
than through them. |
 |
| Inadequate composting rates can occur for a variety
of reasons. Usually this is because the windrow is too dry. If
snow can sit on a pile without melting for any length of time,
that pile is probably too dry to heat up properly. |
 |
| Windrows with wide, flat or concave tops and
steep sides will maximize the collection and infiltration of
precipitation. Water added initially, before or during windrow
formation, and during combining and/or turnings will insure adequate
moisture levels. The decision as to how to shape windrows will
depend on their moisture content and weather conditions. |
 |
| Proper attention to health and safety concerns
can minimize occupational risks at compost facilities. A health
concern particular to composting facilities is the fungus,
Aspergillus fumigatus. Spores from this organism may cause
allergic problems for some compost workers, particularly if the
compost dries out and dusts are inhaled. To minimize the risk
of infection, dust masks should be worn, particularly under dry
and dusty conditions. |
 |
All material is protected by Section 107 of the 1976 copyright
law. Copyright © is held by Cornell University. If you intend
to use this material, please acknowledge its author and source.
