Evaluation of Composting Implementation: A Literature Review.

摘要

A review of the literature on composting of explosives wastes was conducted to define the current state of the art; to guide future and continuing composting projects; to assess the general application of biotechnology, as exemplified by composting, to munitions wastes; and to identify models useful in describing the performance of composting systems. Composting technology has evolved rapidly from the traditional static pile/window system to sophisticated in-vessel systems which routinely process from 50 to 100 tons/day. Mathematical models for describing and predicting composting performance have also developed rapidly from the hyperbolic Michaelis-Menton enzyme kinetic to a more empirical engineering basis of heat flux and moisture concentration. The discovery of several species of bacteria and fungi capable of mineralizing TNT, and the development of methods for introducing and tracking introduced organisms, support the continuing and future funding of this important process for destroying organic wastes. General and specific recommendations are included.