Leachate management

Management of liquids from the composting process

Lixiviate Recovery

The fermentation of waste leads to the production of a liquid fraction. The natural moisture also contained in the materials to be composted can generate runoff. This liquid input is called leachate. The juices from the platform are collected by the aeration ducts into a tank, equipped with a lift pump. They are then reclaimed to be recycled either on the composting silos in progress or in a retention basin. The leachates stored in the basin can be reused during the next filling of the silos.
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Our tailor-made VAL'ID solution

We offer a tailor-made composting solution that includes fans, aeration ducts, and other necessary equipment.

Our proprietary software VALID-SOFT ensures complete monitoring of each stage of the process, thus guaranteeing traceability upstream and downstream.

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At VAL’ID, we believe that our work doesn’t stop after installation. That’s why we offer constant support to make your operation autonomous.

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Types of waste

Discover the diversity of compostable waste: agricultural, industrial and municipal, and how to turn it into a valuable resource.

The VAL'ID solution

Explore VAL’ID’s innovative technology for fast, efficient composting without turning, guaranteeing a top-quality product.

Waste maturation

Understand the importance of maturation in composting, a key stage in obtaining rich, fertile compost that is beneficial to agriculture.

Waste recovery

Learn how composting transforms waste into a natural fertilizer, contributing to sustainable agriculture and environmental protection.

What are Leachates and How are They Treated During Composting?

Leachates are wastewater that results from the fermentation of waste and the natural moisture present in composted materials. This liquid fraction must be managed carefully to avoid environmental contamination and to optimize the composting process.

Collection and Treatment of Leachates

During fermentation, the produced liquids flow and are collected through the aeration ducts. This collection system ensures that the leachates are efficiently recovered, preventing their infiltration into the soil and potential contamination of groundwater. Once collected, the leachates are directed to a storage tank, equipped with a lift pump for easier management.

Recycling and Reuse of Leachates

Once in the tank, leachates can be treated and reused in the composting process. This reuse is an ecological and economical practice, allowing the recirculation of nutrients and moisture that can benefit other batches of compost in maturation. Moreover, this approach helps to reduce the demand for fresh water and minimize the liquid discharges from the composting site.

Storage in Retention Basins

In some cases, leachates are stored in a retention basin. This storage allows for the management of collected liquid volumes and their controlled reuse during the filling of composting silos. Storage in basins also provides a safety margin in case of overproduction of leachates, ensuring that the wastewater management system is not overwhelmed.

Environmental Compliance

The management of leachates must be in compliance with environmental regulations to avoid water and soil pollution. This involves regular checks on the quality of the leachates and adherence to standards regarding discharges and recycling. Effective leachate management not only protects the environment but also improves the quality and efficiency of the produced compost. Proper management of leachates in the composting process is crucial to ensure minimal environmental impact while optimizing the quality of the compost. It involves a series of precise and regulated practices, ranging from collection and recycling to strategic reuse, highlighting the importance of water management in modern and sustainable composting practices.