Seneca Polytechnic
IN-27: Innovation D

The 2 composter machines that are at Newnham and King Campus are a In-Vessel composter that allows the natural biological breakdown of organic material to create compost in 14 days that is used on the grounds area those campuses . The process consists of complete control over aeration, moisture and temperature, so the micro-organisms needed to breakdown the organic material into compost grow perfectly. The details about the process are the following: Aeration: The composter utilizes blades attached to an internal shaft (Turned by a motor), that provide the aeration of the organic matter. Moisture: A moisture content of 65% is ideal to have an efficient environment for the biological breakdown. So, it is important to keep moisture content at the ideal level with the help of an incorporated ventilation system. Temperature: An internal thermostat controls the thermostatic heat blanket to keep the temperature inside the composter between 60°C and 70°C to ensure Animal By-product Regulation compliance while sustaining the micro-organisms necessary for successful decomposition. This natural biological breakdown is possible when mixing air, water, carbon and nitrogen at the right quantity and temperature. Air is supplied by the rotation of the internal blades, and water, carbon and nitrogen are supplied by the organic waste and woodchips.