| 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 outle t 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 t he 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 th e 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, forktrucks, roll-off trucks and intermodal equipment.</p> |
