Abstract: A device for the rapid machine composting of sewage sludge including a rotary drum and having a feeding device extending longitudinally of the drum for feeding material to be composted into the drum. Air, heat and moisture are supplied to and discharged from the sludge compost and the composted material is discharged from the drum. A pre-mixing device for the sludge to be composted is located outside the rotary drum and includes a mixing vessel. Material to be composted is delivered to the mixing vessel as is composted sludge from the drum.

Abstract: In the disclosed method, organic waste material of a water content of at least about 50% and a solid content of at least about 15% is biologically digested into compost. The organic waste material contains a flora of different species of microorganisms having different oxygen consumption requirements and different metabolism. The organic waste material is introduced into an aerating reactor with top inlet and bottom discharge so as to form an air permeable material column in the reactor. Air, which may be enriched with oxygen, is blown through the column in an upward direction without mechanical agitation of the column. Since the flora of microorganism species present in the material has different oxygen consumption requirements and different metabolism, the air flow is controlled in such a way that the microorganisms can settle at distinct levels within the reactor space where the environmental conditions are most favorable.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for collecting and drying animal droppings at room temperature to substantially prevent the decomposition of the protein and urea therein. The droppings are collected on boards positioned beneath cages for the animals, and air at ambient temperature is forced over the droppings. The dried droppings are periodically turned and removed by raking apparatus which moves over the boards and either forces the droppings down tubular means to a conveyor below or sucks the droppings from the boards with vacuum.

Abstract: The invention is concerned with a method of biologically decomposing organic material by the action of microorganisms thereon in the presence of an oxygen-gas containing medium, in which method the material is charged to the top of a vessel and caused to sink downwardly therethrough while passing one or more zones during continuous decomposition of the material and discharge of the treated material at the bottom of said vessel, the oxygen-gas medium being charged to the bottom of the vessel and caused to move upwardly therethrough against the pressure of the overlying material, wherein the sinking movement of said material is effected by causing one or more rotatable screws to cut and finely-divide the treated material and to transport said cut and treated material to a discharge location in the lower part of the vessel; and wherein the oxygen-gas containing medium is introduced through gas-supply means in the bottom part of the vessel and caused to pass through a layer of particulate material and through a l

Abstract: A compost mixture for growing Agaricus birporus mushrooms is placed within a perforated fence surrounding a perforate portion of a floor in an enclosed space, and warm moist air is circulated up and out through the compost throughout the pasteurization process thereby maintaining the pressure in said space above that of the ambient while controlling the temperature and moisture content of the compost throughout a Phase II pasteurization process.

Abstract: An apparatus and a method for composting organic material, wherein a plurality of frame members are spaced from each other, and a plurality of support members are connected to each frame members. Hollow, perforated conduits are connected to and extend between corresponding support members of adjacent frame members. The conduits are movable vertically along the support members. An evacuator withdraws fluid from the compost material through the conduits, and an injector may inject treatment material into the compost material through the conduits. An analysis system is provided to analyze the composting state of the organic material and to determine any treatment necessary required by the organic material as a result of the analysis of the composting state.

Abstract: Silo apparatus for fermenting organic material into compost in which the organic material is gravity fed into a vertical compartment and taken out through an extractor compartment. Gas is fed upwardly through the material and a separator means is provided having variable size openings to control the passage of the material from the upper compartment to the extractor compartment.

Abstract: The present invention encompasses a method for reducing offensive odors in poultry houses comprising adding at least 10 pounds of composted cow manure per ton of poultry manure. The method of the present invention substantially reduces offensive odor in poultry houses especially ammonia odor and thereby provides a healthier environment for poultry and poultry workers. Since the ammonia loss to the environment is reduced, the nitrogen is retained in the poultry manure providing a product with higher nitrogen content.

Abstract: This sewage and waste water treatment introduces a different approach to the usual biological digestion of organic solids and sterilization thereof in the effluent. It proceeds from the concept that all sediments and suspended solids to 20 microns or less are removed immediately and continuously from the in-flow, and the almost suspended solid-free flow therefrom is treated in a unique manner with ozone so as to react chemically with the dissolved and remaining suspended solids by oxidation to produce precipitations, gasifications and sterilization which in turn are removed immediately and continuously to 5 microns or less, thus greatly reducing the ozone requirements for the oxidation reactions. The liquid effluent discharged from this process is a clear and sterilized liquid having no contaminants harmful to biological life.

Abstract: A process for the preparation of a high grade fertilizer from pressing residues obtained from wine and fruit juice production is disclosed wherein the residues are first stored under anaerobic conditions and are then loosely mixed with air to produce a mass which then undergoes intense aerobic degradation to produce heat, carbon dioxide, moisture and a finely divided high quality fertilizer. Apparatuses for carrying out this process are also disclosed.

Abstract: A first thermally insulated hollow cylinder is mounted for rotation about its longitudinal axis and a second hollow cylinder is mounted within the first cylinder for conjoint rotation therewith. The ends of the cylinders are closed to define a first annular chamber therebetween and a second chamber within the second cylinder. Inlet means for waste is provided communicating with the annular chamber adjacent one axial end thereof and a portion of said second cylinder adjacent the other axial end of said annular chamber is formed as a sieve permitting transfer of material from said annular chamber to the second chamber. Discharge means are provided communicating with the chamber within said second cylinder at the same axial end as the inlet, for the discharge of composted material.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method of treating waste material wherein after comminution, the relatively hard material such as glass, brick, and ceramic in finely divided condition together with finely divided soft material is separated and removed to a recirculating composter.Disclosed is a composter having a plurality of upright perforated pipes for discharge of the gaseous products of decomposition.

Abstract: A process and apparatus for producing compost having a high nutrient value from a mixture of animal manure and sawdust. The composter has two parallel shafts with radially projecting fingers which, when the shafts are rotated, slowly and gently churn and agitate the mixture in the composting chamber while air is directed therethrough at a predetermined low rate. When the composting action is completed the compost is promptly dried and packaged in moisture impervious containers.

Abstract: This disclosure is directed to a device for forming a clamp of refuse or refuse-clarified sludge mixtures in reduced and prepared form for composting by thermal rotting by utilizing a pair of transversely spaced upstanding elongated perforated members defining a space therebetween for receiving refuse, and support means in the form of a pallet or pallets disposed between the upstanding members for receiving thereupon and supporting the received refuse.

Abstract: In a stationary upright cylindrically shaped container, organic waste materials are passed downwardly from an upper inlet opening to a lower outlet opening. At the same time air is passed in counterflow upwardly through the downwardly flowing body of waste materials being converted into compost. The air supply means at the lower end of the container are divided into sector-shaped parts, and the compost is conveyed to the outlet opening from each of the sectors of the body so that the moisture content of the material leaving each sector can be checked. Air is introduced, in turn, into the lower end of each sector within the container. The amount of air introduced into each sector is regulated in accordance with the moisture content of the material discharged from that sector.

Abstract: The present invention provides a composter for the disposal of human and organic kitchen wastes through an aerobic process of decomposition wherein waste matter is moved down a helical or spiral path within a container.

Abstract: Method and apparatus is disclosed for composting material such as refuse and preferably a mixture of refuse and sewage sludge. The material is piled in such a way that transverse tunnels are provided whereby natural air circulation is obtained into and through the material remains undisturbed during maturation, thereby allowing aerobic bacterial fermentation to progress efficiently and without interruption. Because higher stacks and consequent greater volumetric capacity thereof is attained, greater efficiency of space utilization. The apparatus involves core structures which temporarily support the material and form the tunnels or ventilation passages therein, the core structures being removed when the material becomes self-supporting.

Abstract: This relates to the treatment and purification of refuse by composting in the form of thermal retting. Conventional refuse is treated by the addition of moisture, preferably in the form of sludge, after which it is crushed in a mill and is screened in tube screens with large particles being removed and discarded, intermediate particles being returned to the crushing mill, and small particles being delivered for composting. Metals, particularly ferrous metals, are removed from each of the three classes of screened material and are salvaged.

Abstract: A composting method which produces complete aerobic digestion and pasteurization of animal and other solid organic waste materials is effected in an open top, elongate, composting vessel, for producing an odor free, pasteurized, organic fertilizer, mulch or animal feed supplement.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for treating wastewater such as sewage are disclosed. Designed principally for complete on-site wastewater treatment and disposal, the system separates wastewater into liquid wastes and solid wastes by filtration, treats the liquid wastes with a mild oxidizing agent and disperses them into unsaturated ground. The solid wastes are periodically removed, along with used portions of the paper filter medium and delivered, in the case of sewage, to a composting area where the still-fresh solids can be aerobically composted. Preferred and particularly advantageous embodiments of a filtering system, a sewage delivery system, a vacuum generating system, and a liquid level sensor, each of which may be used with the invention, are disclosed.

Abstract: Bulk tree bark removed as a preparatory procedure to pulping wood for use in the paper industry is converted into a useful humus by-product through the use of a system and method wherein the bark is delivered to a receiving station in an aerobicly untreated state. This material then is adjusted to optimize the nitrogen content thereof through the addition of nitrogenous material. Additionally the pH level thereof as well as the moisture level is optimized through the utilization of a mixing arrangement which agitates and retains the materials over a predetermined time interval. The material then is transferred to a digester apparatus where it undergoes aerobic thermophilic phase digestion under the influence of induced atmospheric air and agitation. Two digester arrangements are described.

Abstract: A method of aerobic decomposition of organic solids involves mixing material containing the organic solids to be decomposed with relatively drier material in order to set an upper limit to the dampness of the mixture to be processed. An apparatus for aerobic decomposition includes a decomposition reactor in the form of a tower which tapers in the upward direction. The bottom of the reactor is square or rectangular in cross section and its top is oval or circular in cross section. The bottom of the reactor is made in the form of a roller grid. A mixing section is provided for mixing the material to be decomposed with relatively drier material.

Abstract: System and apparatus for treating organic waste material, suited, for example, for the aerobic-thermophilic treatment of cattle manure. The waste material initially is commingled with an expanded, size limited dry cellulosic material in a mixing stage, preferably, a pug mill device, to achieve a bulk density and moisture content optimized for thermophilic digestion. A digestion arrangement is provided assuming a reliability for complete aerobic treatment of all material removed therefrom.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of producing compost from decomposing vegetable matter in a bin which provides access to a lower portion of the decomposing matter for removal thereof without substantially disturbing other matter contained therein. A plurality of similar panels are interconnected to form a bin wall in which one or more panels may be raised to afford access to the interior of the bin. The sides of each panel comprise complementary cross-sections which engage to provide a draught resistant seal.

Abstract: A great many earthworms are bred in a layer of fermented vegetable matter, such as waste cotton and straw, which is maintained in a duly moistened condition. The earthworms eat the vegetable matter and discharge feces. The feces are gathered and refined into a natural organic fertilizer or manure through a number of steps including removal or killing of earthworm eggs.

Abstract: A mobile apparatus repeatedly moves the central front opening of a drum and flail compartment thereof over elongated large masses of inoculated manure and moves the drum and flail assembly therein through each of the masses to repeatedly flail it, mix it, cool it and aerate it and, by co-action of a sprayer apparatus, moisten the particles of each resultant mass while in a state of dispersion, and form the resultant moistened particulate mass by flexible skirt members outlining a rear outlet opening into a pile of readily dispersed useful granulated soil conditioner.

Abstract: A digester is disclosed for controlling the decomposition of organic matter to produce a useful gas and a liquid fertilizer. The digester comprises three slurry chambers connected in tandem by passthrough tubes. A fourth chamber used for gas collection is located above the three slurry chambers. An input line is connected to the bottom of the first chamber and an output line is connected to the bottom of an upright tube provided in the third chamber. A slurry containing raw manure or other organic waste is loaded from a mix tank through the input line to fill the three chambers to a level determined by the top of the upright tube in the third chamber. The process of aerobic digestion and a limited form of anaerobic digestion is carried out in the first chamber and the process of anaerobic digestion which produces the methane gas is carried out in the second chamber which is heated.

Abstract: There is disclosed a method and apparatus for composting organic sludge by mixing the sludge with oxygen-containing gas in a gas impermeable, rotatable drum, and cooling the drum to maintain the temperature within the drum above but near the pasteurization temperature.

Abstract: Organic waste and/or sewage sludge is digested by passing it downwardly through a closed vessel while air is passed upwardly through it. The air is finely divided or distributed into the vessel so that it flows through the entire cross sectional area of the material being digested. The flow of air through the vessel is regulated by measuring the content of CO.sub.2 or O.sub.2 in the exhaust air from the vessel and comparing the measured value with a desired value. Similarly, the moisture content of the material being digested is measured in at least two spaced locations and the moisture content is compared with a desired value for determining the amount of water to be supplied into the air flowing into the vessel. In addition, the air supplied to the vessel is heated based on the temperature conditions to be maintained within the vessel. After exhaust air leaves the vessel, its heat and water contents are withdrawn and it is filtered to remove objectionable odors and other noxious matters.

Abstract: An apparatus for producing well-fermented compost by achieving an aerobic fermentation of organic wastes, excretion, etc. The apparatus comprises a fermentation vessel of a rectangular configuration, a device for feeding slurry-like organic wastes within the base compost which has been piled in the vessel and for stirring the base compost and the slurry-like organic wastes, and a device for gathering an upper portion of the predetermined thickness of the fermented compost and for carrying the gathered compost out of the vessel. These devices are movably positioned on the top of the vessel.

Abstract: The present disclosure is directed to a method of producing an organic soil additive from shreaded water hyacinths and a mixture of secondary sewage combined in spaced apart heaps for aeriation and composting with subsequent steam treatment to produce a product having high moisture retention characteristics for use as a soil additive, conditioner, amendment, fertilizer ingredient and/or agent or potting soil.

Abstract: A process for recycling raw sewage and unsorted solid waste by adding the solids removed from sewage to ground unsorted waste forming a sludge, treating the sludge first anaerobically, sterilizing the anaerobically treated sludge, forming the sludge into a slurry, separating the biodegradable from the non-biodegradable material in the slurry by aerobic fermentation, composting the biodegradable material in batches, curing the compost under control conditions to stabilize its fertilizing properties and classifying the biodegradable and non-biodegradable material to provide useable products. The colloidal raw sewage liquor remaining after separation of the sewage solids is converted into pure water.

Abstract: A process for composting waste material by controlling the amount of aeration, the pH value of the moisture content and the temperature of the material during composting. The resulting material has a pH value of approximately 7.3 and a moisture content within the range of 10-30%. The carbon-nitrogen ratio is also controlled to achieve a relative stable composted material as the output product.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for treating waste products having a bioreducing unit, means for scrubbing air and gases exhausted from the unit and for recovering byproducts formed in the bioreduction step, and means for dehumidifying the scrubbed air. Fly larvae which hatch from eggs added to the waste product in the bioreducing unit aerate the waste product and thus accelerate the bioreduction and removal of moisture. The fly larvae and the bioreduced manure are then separated on a perforated screen belt by utilizing the negative reaction of the larvae to light.

Abstract: A composting mixture for facilitating the rapid decomposition of organic material to be composted in which there is a relatively small amount of various microorganisms for digesting the material, a relatively small amount of enzymes for breaking down the cell structure of the organic material to enable it to be digested by the microorganisms, and a relatively large amount of materials rich in proteins and carbohydrates to facilitate the rapid reproduction of the microorganisms prior to the time that the enzymes have broken down the cell structure of the organic material. The materials rich in protein and carbohydrates are so selected as to provide a ratio of one to from three to four parts of protein by weight to carbohydrate. This simulates the ratio of protein to carbohydrate in growing vegetable matter and enables initial rapid reproduction of the microorganisms. The enzymes include a hemicellulase, a cellulase, a protease, an amylase and lipase.

Abstract: A method for reclaiming variegated wastes such as garbage, sewage, and saline dredging spoils includes the primary step of desalinization of the dredging spoils by draining off the salty water. The garbage is cleaned of non-organic material, and the remaining material is shredded and reduced to a slurry. The slurry is mixed with raw or primarily treated sewage and the treated spoils, and pumped through a pipe-line to a treatment and reclamation area. In transit, the clay particles within the dredging spoils adsorb suspended solids and dissolved organic and inorganic contaminants, aided by the agitation of the transit. At the treatment area, the solids are removed by settling, and composted to form rich agricultural soil. The water is treated with biological and/or chemical means until suitable for desired use or may be used directly for irrigation purposes or the like.

Abstract: Household, agricultural, forestry, and/or commercial refuse containing a mix of organic substances which respectively decompose rapidly, less rapidly and slowly, is converted into a fibrous material by subjecting the refuse to aerobic decomposition which is interrupted after only the rapidly decomposable organic substances are decomposed, whereby a fibrous material is obtained which is thereupon dried and sterilized. A hardenable binder material may be admixed with the resultant dried fibrous material and the mixture may be shaped to desired configuration and the binder material hardened under simultaneous application of pressure to make a shaped body.

Abstract: A process for treating wastes containing organic solids by composting wherein previously composted and/or otherwise partially dried organic material of the same or similar type is periodically mixed with additional wet material so as to obtain a mixture having an optimum moisture content such that natural aerobic decomposition takes place on a sustained basis.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for biologically treating refuse or thickened sludge to form compost utilizes a vertical cylindrical chamber havng an upper inlet aperture and a lower outlet aperture. An axial shaft located within the chamber has mounted thereon a plurality of radial arms each having a plurality of gas distributor blades. Sets of arms are spaced axially along the shaft. The chamber wall is formed in part by a plurality of hollow, cylindrical exhaust ducts concentrically arranged and extending differing distances along the chamber side. The end of each duct is flared to form an exhaust aperture which extends around the entire chamber. Material to be treated enters the chamber at the upper inlet and fills the chamber. The rotating radial arms and blades distribute a treating gas mixture to the material, which gas is exhausted by the annular exhaust apertures and exhaust ducts.

Abstract: A method of and apparatus for quickly composting organic material which involves the use of a flexible bag having a plurality of perforations through the body portion of the bag and a composting tablet having a water soluble binder in which is retained a large number of natural micro-organisms, the bag being filled with the organic material and an aqueous solution formed by adding the tablet to a predetermined amount of water. The open end of the bag is thereafter closed and periodically the bag is compressed to force out through the perforations gases resulting from decomposition and then fluffed to draw air into the bag through the perforations. The composting tablet preferably contains enzymes which accelerate the activity of the microorganisms and a nitrogen releasing substance to supply the nitrogen necessary for continued decomposition of the material being composted.