Scientific Reports of the National University of Life and Environmental Sciences of Ukraine

Determining the effect of different aeration regimes on technological parameters of waste fermentation

Andrii Kachur, Oksana Pylypchuk
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Abstract

The purpose of the study was to determine the optimal frequency of mechanical mixing of the substrate to intensify biothermal processes, stimulate microbiological activity, and increase the efficiency of bioconversion of organic matter. The study was performed under the conditions of an experimental farm using organic waste of plant origin and the biodestructor “Unikal-S”. The effect of aeration on the temperature regime and changes in moisture content of the compost mass was analysed during 150 days of fermentation. Different mechanical mixing regimes were used: once every 3, 5, 7, and 10 days. Compost temperature was monitored daily, and moisture content was determined once every 5 days according to applicable standards. The results demonstrate that regular aeration contributed to a more intensive course of biothermal processes in soybean waste and spoiled corn silage. The highest temperature values were recorded in the variants with mechanical mixing once every 3 days. The temperature reached 62°C in soybean waste and 66°C in spoiled corn silage, indicating active development of thermophilic microflora and intensive decomposition of organic matter. More frequent mixing ensured longer maintenance of the thermophilic phase of fermentation and contributed to a more effective decrease in substrate moisture. Aeration once every 3-5 days provided the best technological parameters of fermentation and intensified bioconversion of organic waste. The results can be used to improve plant waste composting technologies and increase the efficiency of fermentation processes in agriculture

Keywords

aeration; composting; soybean waste; biodestructor; compost temperature; moisture; bioconversion

Suggested citation
Kachur, A., & Pylypchuk, O. (2026). Determining the effect of different aeration regimes on technological parameters of waste fermentation. Scientific Reports of the National University of Life and Environmental Sciences of Ukraine, 22(3),199-212. https://doi.org/10.31548/dopovidi/3.2026.199
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