Determinación de la calidad de compost a partir de co-compostaje en lodos residuales producidos en la planta de tratamiento de aguas residuales “las viñitas” del cantón Ambato

Abstract

The main objective of the investigation was to treat and reuse the residual sludge produced in the "Las Viñitas" Wastewater Treatment Plant (PTAR), which is part of the EP-EMAPA-A facilities in Ambato, according to data provided by the company suffers from a problem since approximately 45 tons/day are produced daily. Once they reach the storage silo, these must be distributed, which is why they are delivered directly for agricultural production without giving them any prior treatment. This study was carried out by elaborating on composting piles and evaluating the compost obtained at the end of the process. Two experimental units were built, which have the following proportions of residues for P1: LR (1000 kg) + RP (600 kg) + ASERR (400kg), in the case of P2: LR (1300 kg) + RP (300 kg) + SAERR (400kg). Daily control of parameters was carried out in situ, constantly verifying the temperature and humidity of the experimental units as well as the ambient temperature and humidity. An initial, during and final evaluation of the composting process of the different parameters such as organic matter (OM), pH, electrical conductivity (EC), Carbon-Nitrogen ratio (C/N), polyphenols, heavy metals, anions, macro and micronutrients and germination index (%GI). The C/N ratio was less than 20 in the two experimental units, and the GI became more significant than 90% in the final compost, suitable for plant growth and gradually decreasing in terms of polyphenols. Due to the above, the results of the experimental units gave a compost considered class A by the European Regulations, that is, suitable for use in agriculture. Using other variables in studies is recommended later to improve the results obtained.