Investigation of the Composting Process of Mongolian Horse Manure Utilizing Intelligent Composting Equipment
Author:
Wang Jian12ORCID, Ren Kailin123, Zhang Yong12, Zhang Longfei12, Li Zhe1
Affiliation:
1. College of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Inner Mongolia Agricultural University, Hohhot 010018, China 2. Inner Mongolia Engineering Research Center of Intelligent Equipment for the Entire Process of Forage and Feed Production, Hohhot 010018, China 3. Advanced Manufacturing College, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, China
Abstract
The Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, known for its famous Mongolian horses, faces significant environmental challenges due to the large-scale rearing of these animals, which produces a substantial amount of manure. If not managed effectively, this manure can lead to severe environmental pollution. The aim of this study was to investigate whether a small-scale intelligent aeration and heating composting system is effective in treating Mongolian horse manure, with the objective of enhancing composting efficiency and resource utilization to support sustainable agricultural development in the region. The equipment was utilized to treat a compost mixture of Mongolian horse manure and corn stover, allowing for an analysis of the changes in key indicators throughout the composting process. The results demonstrated that the equipment maintained high temperatures for up to eight days during the composting process, effectively inactivating pathogens and promoting the efficient decomposition of organic matter. The system also successfully controlled humidity to 12.7% and maintained oxygen concentration within the optimal range. Post-composting analysis revealed that the final compost contained 2.3% nitrogen, 1.3% phosphorus, and 1.2% potassium, with a pH of 6.4 and conductivity of approximately 5.2 mS/cm. Additionally, the carbon-to-nitrogen ratio decreased significantly from 27.3 to 15.9, indicating substantial organic matter degradation. Seed germination tests showed germination rates of 80%, 86%, and 75% for corn, mung bean, and wheat, respectively, with a final seed germination index of 104%. This study concluded that the small aeration and heating composting equipment is highly effective in treating Mongolian horse manure, producing high-quality organic fertilizers that significantly enhance soil fertility and demonstrate considerable potential for supporting sustainable agricultural practices and improving environmental management in the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region.
Funder
Innovation Team of Higher Education Institutions in Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region Modern Agriculture and Inner Mongolia Grassland Talent Innovation Team
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