aerobic process

Once the ANAEROBIC digestion has been carried out, the second phase, the AEROBIC one, begins. Aerobic treatment is the set of natural processes that lead to the degradation of organic matter thanks to the action of a series of microorganisms operating in oxygen-rich environments, which lead to the production of a family of compounds known as humus.

In the aerobic process, the growth of bacteria is first observed which initiates the degradation of carbohydrates, lipids and proteins (mesophilic phase) producing carbon dioxide and water, as well as causing a rapid increase in temperature. In the following phase (thermophilic) the temperatures exceed 50 degrees: only the thermophilic bacteria resist and the dioxidative phenomena are accelerated. In the last phase (maturation) fungi and actinomycetes intervene and initiate the degradation of cellulose and lignin with the formation of humus.

In the FORSU plant, vegetable waste from the differentiated collection of greenery in parks and gardens is added to the material leaving the previous phase, properly shredded. This process has the advantage of not producing liquid waste to be treated or disposed of because the treatment takes place with "dry" technology. After mixing, the AEROBIC composting process takes place in 20 biocells served by forced ventilation. The AEROBIC digestion activity lasts about two weeks: at the end, the material is screened and sent to the maturation area, also served by forced ventilation. After about 2-3 weeks the product is further refined and is therefore ready for use in agriculture as a mixed soil conditioner or, more simply, COMPOST.