Influence of controllable variables on the composting process, kinetic, and maturity of Stevia rebaudiana residues

Abstract

Purpose Stevia rebaudiana residues composting is studied and optimized using a central composite experimental design
Methods The influence of controllable composting variables [moisture (40–70%), aeration (0.05–0.30 Lair
min−1 kg−
1), and time (0–50 days)] on the temperature history and the properties of the compost (pH, organic matter) produced to determine
suitable composting conditions. Mass balance and emitted gases of all the composting reactors have been done.
Results Compost with high degradation entails operating at 50 days of composting under high moisture content (70%) and
aeration level with values close to 0.05 Lair
min−1 kg−
1. Moreover, the composting process kinetic for Stevia rebaudiana residues has been studied. The magnitude of the kinetic parameters on the studied conditions varies among 1/42 and 1/46 for 1/K1 and 0.15 and 1.6 for K2. Where 1/K1 is a value that measures the affinity between microorganisms and substrate and K2 depends on the composting variable optimization.
Conclusions Both moisture and aeration affects positively and negatively the composting process. Moreover, low effect of
aeration has been found. The values of 1/K1 and K2 obtained showed higher values (higher degradation kinetic) under 55%
moisture content and 0.30 Lair min−1 kg−1.