| 摘要 |
<p>The invention includes a method and apparatus (10) for composting source materials, such as organic materials but also including hazardous and toxic materials, by maintaining composting conditions within preselected limits. A sealable container (20) includes an insulated chamber having a base with a gravity well (27); a flat, perforated floor (26) forming a small air and leachate drain space between the floor and the base; and air inlet and outlet conduits. Dampers (44 and 48) control flow of air or other gases responsive to various conditions or sensors. According to the method, the composition of the organic material is amended and/or inoculated as required to convert the source materials to a compostable mixture. Incubating forms a composting mixture from the compostable mixture. The method includes the steps of monitoring and adjusting conditions of the composting mixture to maintain the conditions within the preselected limits. The conditions of the composting mixture are adjusted by aerating the composting mixture or re-mixing the composting mixture. The re-mixed composting material is incubated to yield composted organic material. Various systems are disclosed which use sealable containers designed to function with existing material handling equipment, including, alternatively, fork trucks, roll-off trucks and intermodal equipment.</p> |
