Compost for heat

Discussion in 'Put Your Questions to the Experts!' started by Fadfodeh, Jun 9, 2015.

  1. Fadfodeh

    Fadfodeh Junior Member

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    Hello
    I have read several articles about using compost heap for generating heat. Do these compost heaps have apecial c:n ratio? Are there any success stories about this subject?

    Thanks
     
  2. Bryant RedHawk

    Bryant RedHawk Junior Member

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  3. Fadfodeh

    Fadfodeh Junior Member

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    Thanks for the link. The cn ratio for compost should be in the range of 25-40. Does the ratio affect the heat generation? i.e which ratio gwnerates more heat?
     
  4. Fadfodeh

    Fadfodeh Junior Member

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    As the cn ratio for compost is in the range of 25-40, which cn ratio produces more heat?

    Thanks
     
  5. Bryant RedHawk

    Bryant RedHawk Junior Member

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    The higher the nitrogen, the hotter the compost so if you build a heap that contains 30% carbon and 60% nitrogen you can reach temps of up to 165 f. A ratio of 25 c : 70 n can reach temps of over 200 degrees in a very short time.
    Example of Nitrogen heat factor: grass clippings put into a plastic bag and tied off will heat up to the ignition point in 2-3 days.
    If you build a heap and your thermometer shows it is not heating to the degree you desire, just add spent coffee grounds and moisten them, they contain around 40% nitrogen. You can also acidify soil or a heap by wetting with fresh brewed coffee.
     

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