Optimization of the composting process of sugarcane filter-pressed mud in the Santa Rosalia sugar mill, Tabasco, Mexico

Objective: To optimize the composting process of sugarcane filter-pressed mud, straw, and ash as an alternative to reduce the environmental contamination of sugarcane cultivation in the Santa Rosalía sugar mill (Ingenio Santa Rosalía) of Chontalpa, Tabasco, Mexico.Design/Methodology/Approach: A completely randomized experimental design in a factorial arrangement was used, with compost mixtures and the aeration times as study factors. Ten treatments were generated with six repetitions each. The study variables were pH, organic matter (%), and nitrate (NO 3 - ) and ammonium (NH 4 + ) content.Results: The compost mixture factor had significant effects on compost quality parameters. Aeration times did not affect the quality of the different compost mixtures. Chemical characteristics of pH and organic matter did not present differences between the treatments. Study Limitations/Implications: The use of industrial sugarcane residues generates quality organic fertilizers through the composting process; therefore, it is necessary to test more residues, such as molasses and vinasses.Findings/Conclusions: The 100% sugarcane filter-pressed mud and the 100% sugarcane filter-pressed mud + 0.5% N treatments presented the highest amount of NO 3 - and NH 4 + and were therefore considered the best treatments. All treatments were classified as mature composts, rich in organic matter, with alkaline pH, and made ofsteady materials.