Composting of byproducts from the orange (Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck) and sugarcane (Saccharum spp. hybrids) agroindustries

Abstract

There is a global problem involving the generation, management, disposal, and treatment of agro-industrial waste, since it requires technologies for its transformation into the sustainable production of food, fodder, biofuels, fibers, bioproducts, and biofertilizers. The citrus and sugarcane agroindustries generate waste or byproducts that require a special treatment to be reused. Sugarcane byproducts already have an established but unsustainable use. In the case of citrus fruits, 50-60% of the organic waste has an acidic pH (3-4), 95% organic matter, and 80-90% moisture. The objective of this research was to evaluate and model the pile composting method applied to byproducts of the orange and sugarcane agroindustries to obtain compost with competitive physicochemical parameters for use as a soil improver. The pile was designed with a pyramidal rectangular arrangement, and 9 points were established for temperature sampling in three different sections during composting. An average of 55 °C and a pH of 9,1 were obtained at the end of the process. Compared to the regional control, the C/N ratio (27,5), organic matter (65,5%), and macro- and microelements show improved characteristics for use in food production in agroecological agriculture.