Nutrient Properties of Fresh and Composted Cotton Gin Byproducts and Cattle Manure for Soil Amendment

Abstract

Highlights N and P concentrations in composted vs. fresh Cotton Gin Byproducts (CGB) were at least 55% (dry basis) higher. P concentrations in composted vs. raw Beef Manure (BM) were approximately 25% higher. Characterization informs product formulations and process parameters for co-pelleting CGB with BM. Accurate formulation would enhance the potential for sustainable utilization of both byproducts. Abstract. Applications of fresh and composted Cotton Gin Byproducts (CGB) and cattle manure as soil amendments are very common practices in the industry. However, composting and direct application of the materials are often limited by factors such as bulkiness, varying nutrient composition and application rates, and handling/transportation costs. This study was conducted to characterize fresh and composted CGB and beef manure (BM) for subsequent co-pelletization and utilization as soil amendments, and to investigate the effects of composting on the nutrient composition and agronomic values. Raw and composted samples of CGB and BM at different storage periods and composting ages were sourced from two commercial gins and a beef farm. Nutrient content, acidity, and compost maturity indices such as carbon/nitrogen (C/N) and ammonium/nitrate (NH4-N/NO3-N) ratios were determined and compared. All samples were obtained at four sampling points on the respective storage or composting piles. The results showed that composted CGB generally contained at least 55% more total-N and phosphorus oxide (P2O5), but approximately 35% less potassium oxide (K2O) than fresh CGB. Composted BM had approximately 3% less total-N, but at least 25% more P2O5 than raw BM. The nutrient compositions affirm the potential for co-pelletizing both forms of CGB and BM to improve the agronomic values and enhance the utilization as soil amendments. In addition, establishing the various properties of CGB and BM is crucial for determining product formulations and selecting process parameters for co-pelletization. Keywords: Beef manure, Composting, Cotton ginning, Nutrient composition, Soil fertility.