Waste maturation

Stabilizing and moistening compost

The Maturation Area

After the fermentation phase of about 30-40 days, the silo is emptied of its compost. This compost is then stored in a maturation area where it will cool down. Analyses and weighings are carried out during this operation. This maturation phase exhibits little microbial activity because, as it returns to ambient temperature, it is the microfauna that colonizes the environment. This allows for stabilizing and moisturizing the product to achieve homogenization of its appearance (brown). After 4 weeks of maturation, a sample is taken to compare the finished product with the corresponding NFU STANDARD.
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We offer a tailor-made composting solution that includes fans, aeration ducts, and other necessary equipment.

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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.

How Does the Compost Maturation Area Work?

The maturation area plays a crucial role in the final process of composting, affecting the final quality of the compost. After the initial fermentation phase, which lasts about 30 to 40 days, the compost is transferred to this area where it undergoes final transformations.

Stabilization and Cooling of Compost

During this maturation phase, the compost undergoes a stabilization process. The temperature of the compost gradually decreases, allowing the microfauna to colonize the environment. This decrease in temperature is essential as it marks the end of intense microbial activity and the beginning of the compost stabilization. This step ensures that the compost will no longer undergo significant decomposition once applied to the soil, thereby avoiding harmful effects on plant growth due to undecomposed organic matter.

Homogenization and Product Quality

Homogenizing the compost during maturation is a key process to ensure product consistency. This means that the compost acquires a uniform texture and color, typically brownish, indicating a well-matured compost. This uniformity is important for agricultural application, ensuring that every part of the compost will deliver equal value once spread on fields or used for other horticultural applications.

Control and Compliance with Standards

Finally, this maturation stage undergoes rigorous analyses and controls to ensure that the finished compost meets quality standards, including the NFU standard. Samples are taken after about four weeks of maturation for comparative testing. These controls ensure that the compost meets specific criteria in terms of composition, nutrient content, and the absence of contaminants, in accordance with regulatory and environmental requirements. The maturation area is indispensable for transforming the compost into a stable, homogeneous, and high-quality finished product. This phase represents not only a finishing process but also a quality control, ensuring that the produced compost is safe, effective, and beneficial for the environment and agriculture.