A sustainable decentralized Vermi Composting system integrated with organic fraction of municipal solid waste and sewage

Abstract

This invention relates to an improved vermicomposting process designed to convert organic waste into nutrient-rich compost efficiently. The process includes the collection and segregation of organic waste, analysis of physicochemical properties, the use of Eisenia fetida worms, and an optimized container design. The method ensures proper temperature, pH, and moisture management, while introducing variable water content through tap water and sewage combinations in multiple reactors. The final product, vermicast, exhibits superior nutrient content and is suitable for agricultural use, improving soil fertility and crop yield.

Specification

Description:FIELD OF INVENTION
[001] The present invention belongs to the field of waste management, particularly to the process of vermicomposting for converting organic waste into nutrient-rich compost using earthworms. The invention has applications in agriculture, soil fertility enhancement, and organic farming.
BACKGROUND AND PRIOR ART
[002] Vermicomposting has been widely practiced to recycle organic waste materials. Traditional methods often face challenges such as improper aeration, waterlogging, and inconsistent nutrient output. While existing methods, such as the pit and bed techniques, have been employed, these can lead to suboptimal compost due to poor control over environmental factors like temperature, pH, and moisture.
[003] Prior art includes methods using various earthworm species, yet many do not effectively address the need for standardized processes that can handle varying water sources, including sewage. Additionally, existing techniques often neglect continuous monitoring of the composting process, leading to variable quality in the final vermicast.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[004] The present invention introduces a novel vermicomposting process that optimizes organic waste breakdown using Eisenia fetida worms in a controlled environment. It incorporates a multi-layer reactor design with separate compartments for waste segregation and worm acclimatization, ensuring high efficiency. This invention also includes the innovative use of different water combinations (tap and sewage water in varying ratios) to analyze the impact on compost quality. Continuous monitoring of physicochemical parameters such as temperature, pH, and nutrient content ensures a superior end product suitable for agricultural purposes.
[005] The design features a specific vermicomposting container (150x100x60 cm³) with distinct layers for brick pieces, soil, and waste materials. The process is adaptable to urban environments and allows the recycling of municipal solid waste efficiently.
BRIEF DESCRIPTIONS OF DRAWINGS
[006] Figure 1: Illustrates the vermicomposting container with dimensions and multiple layers for organic material and worms.
[007] Figure 2: Shows the sequential steps in the vermicomposting process, from waste collection to final vermicast production.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[008] The vermicomposting process begins with the collection of organic waste, such as kitchen scraps, fruit peels, and sewage water. After mechanical separation to remove non-putrescible waste, the organic materials are shredded and placed in layers within the reactor. The reactor is designed with a base layer of brick pieces, followed by soil and organic waste, and finally, the introduction of earthworms.
[009] Eisenia fetida is the species chosen for its high efficiency in breaking down organic material. The invention also uses five reactors, each with varying ratios of tap water and sewage (ranging from 100% tap water to 100% sewage), to study the effect on vermicomposting outcomes.
[010] Throughout the process, parameters such as temperature, humidity, and pH are monitored weekly. After 60 to 120 days, the vermicast is harvested and analyzed for macronutrients and micronutrients, such as nitrogen, potassium, phosphorus (NPK), carbon-nitrogen ratio, zinc, copper, sulfur, calcium, and magnesium. The final vermicast is of high quality and can significantly improve soil structure and fertility. , C , Claims:[011] 1. A vermicomposting process comprising the collection, segregation, and shredding of organic waste, wherein the waste is processed in a container measuring 150x100x60 cm³ and subjected to a multistep process involving earthworms, with moisture and temperature control.
[012] 2. The vermicomposting process as claimed in Claim 1, wherein Eisenia fetida worms are used for decomposition of organic waste.
[013] 3. A method for managing water input in the vermicomposting process, wherein five reactors are set up with varying ratios of tap water and sewage water to determine the optimal conditions for nutrient-rich vermicast production.
[014] 4. The vermicomposting process as claimed in Claim 1, wherein the physical and chemical properties of the compost, including temperature, pH, moisture content, and nutrient levels, are monitored at intervals to ensure optimal compost quality.

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