Evaluation of an Aerobic Composting Process for the Management of Specified Risk Materials (SRM)

Abstract

In Atlantic Canada, approximately 8000 tonnes of Specific Risk Materials (SRM) is produced annually. Composting offers a means to partially treat and stabilize SRM. In this project, different types of agricultural residuals and wastes were used to compost with SRM in a pilot scale. The results were discussed based on the change in total carbon and nitrogen, pH, temperature, moisture content and electrical conductivity, which were measured at regular intervals over the study. The temperature for all treatments met the CCME pathogen control guideline. The maturity test showed that the CO2-C in all the compost was less than 1 mg/g organic matter/day. Straw and other agricultural wastes performed well in the composting SRM, other advantages includes greater availability, lower cost and more easily decomposed carbon compounds.