Aerobic processing of solid organic wastes for the production of a peat alternative: a review

Aerobic biodegradation is a process of importance in the recycling of organic matter which provides a means of obtaining a stable product by biological oxidative transformation. The basic process and operating process systems are briefly reviewed. The product may be taken for use at different stages of maturity from sanitisation through to a high level of humification and mineralisation. A highly stabilised product has potential as a substitute for peat, having peat-like characteristics as well as a nutrient status.