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An Evaluation of Degradable Polyethylene (PE) Sacks In Open Windrow Composting

Compost Science & Utilization, (2005), Vol. 13, No. 1, 50-59

Georgina Davis (1), Hugh Bulson (2), David Harrison (3) and Eric Billett (3)
1. Water and Environmental Management, Bristol University, United Kingdom
2. The Organic Resource Agency, MHSP, Malvern, United Kingdom
3. Design Department, Brunel University, Runnymede, Surrey, United Kingdom

The compostability of degradable polyethylene under open windrow composting conditions is explored within this paper. Areas for consideration were the use of, and impacts of, degradable polyethylene sacks on the composting process and the quality of the finished compost product. These factors were investigated through tracking the polyethylene's weight loss over the composting process; the amount of polymer residue and chemical contaminants in the finished compost product; the windrow temperature profiles and a bioassay to establish plant growth and germination levels using the final compost product. Statistical analysis of the windrow temperature profiles has led to the development of a model, which can help to predict the expected trends in the temperature profiles of open compost windrows where the organic waste is kerbside collected using a degradable polyethylene sack.