Title:
Pilot-scale Evaluation of Bioplastics Degradation in Food Waste Composting: Integrating Digestate in a Circular Bioeconomy Approach
Author(s):
Klavdianou, K., Adamopoulou, V., Zafiri, C., Kornaros, M.
Document(s):
Paper
Poster
Abstract:
The rising generation of food waste (>59 million tonnes annually) and the projected increase in bioplastics use (from 2.5 to 5.7 million tonnes by 2029) underscore the need for integrated waste management solutions. Despite being marketed as biodegradable, bioplastics often resist degradation in real-world composting and anaerobic digestion settings, leading to their classification as contaminants. This study explores the composting performance of four feedstock scenarios in a pilot-scale, in-vessel system (A500 Rocket Composter): (i) food waste only, (ii) food waste with bioplastics (PLA, PHA, mixtures), (iii) food waste with anaerobic digestate, and (iv) a combination of all three. Operating with a 14-day retention time, forced aeration, and mechanical agitation, the system processes up to 300 L weekly. Bioplastics, added at a 5.5:1 ratio with food waste, may enhance compostability by improving carbon content. Compost quality and bioplastic degradation are assessed using standard metrics, including self-heating potential, FTIR, and weight loss. Preliminary findings offer insights into bioplastic behavior in realistic composting environments.
Keywords:
composting, food waste, bioplastic, circular economy
Topic:
Sustainable Resources for Decarbonising the Economy
Subtopic:
Sustainable integrated agricultural management practices
Event:
33rd European Biomass Conference and Exhibition
Session:
1DV.4.27
Pages:
218 - 223
ISBN:
978-88-89407-25-7
Paper DOI:
10.5071/33rdEUBCE2025-1DV.4.27
Price:
FREE
