What is the ideal Carbon to Nitrogen (C/N) ratio for starting composting?

The ideal C/N ratio should be between 25:1 and 30:1 (Clause 6.1).

What is the recommended moisture content for a compost pile?

The optimal moisture content should be maintained between 50 and 60 percent (Clause 6.2).

How can one determine if the compost is mature?

Mature compost has a C/N ratio below 20:1, a dark brown color, an earthy smell, and its temperature has stabilized to ambient levels (Clause 7 and Table 3).

What are the main methods of composting described in this code?

The code describes two main methods: Bangalore Method (anaerobic) and Windrow Composting (aerobic), which can be manual or mechanical (Clause 5).

IS 11626

: 1986

Guide for composting of municipal solid waste

CurrentSpecializedGuidelinesEnvironmental · Environmental and Sanitation

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This standard provides guidelines for the composting of municipal solid waste (MSW). It details the principles of composting, including waste segregation, process control parameters like C/N ratio and moisture, and different methods such as windrow and mechanical composting. The code also specifies the quality standards for finished compost suitable for agricultural use.

Provides guidelines for the process of composting municipal solid waste to produce useful soil conditioner.

Quick Reference Values

Optimal Initial C/N Ratio25:1 to 30:1

Optimal Moisture Content50% to 60%

Temperature for Pathogen Destruction>55 °C

Minimum Duration at Pathogen Kill Temperature3-5 days

Final Compost C/N Ratio< 20:1

Final Compost pH6.5 to 7.5

Curing Period3 to 4 weeks

Practical Notes

The C/N ratio is the most critical parameter for efficient composting; it often requires blending nitrogen-rich materials (like sewage sludge) with carbon-rich municipal waste.

While this IS code provides technical guidance, it must be used in conjunction with the legally binding Solid Waste Management (SWM) Rules, 2016, issued by the MoEF&CC.

Achieving and maintaining a temperature of over 55°C is essential for hygienization and to meet quality standards, especially for pathogen destruction.