During the processing of organic fertilizer, fermentation is required, and fermentation bacteria play a crucial role in this process. Fermentation bacteria thrive in neutral or slightly alkaline environments, which facilitates their reproduction, decomposition, and survival. To optimize their fermentation function, it is necessary to regulate the pH level to achieve the desired effect. Today, we will explain the importance of pH regulation in organic fertilizer equipment processing

Bacteria and actinomycetes thrive in neutral or slightly alkaline environments, while fungi prefer acidic conditions. During the fermentation of organic waste such as manure, the decomposition and digestion of organic matter by bacteria and fungi release organic acids. As the organic waste continues to ferment, these acids accumulate, leading to a decrease in the pH of the fermentation material. This acidic environment favors the proliferation and decomposition of fungi, promoting the breakdown of lignin and cellulose in the fermentation material. As the organic acids are further degraded by fermenting microorganisms, the pH of the fermentation material gradually rises. The optimal pH environment then enables the rapid reproduction and decomposition of actinomycetes and fungi, accelerating the process of fermentation and maturation.

A low pH level is primarily influenced by excessive moisture or overly fine material, which can cause organic waste such as manure to ferment into an anaerobic state. When this occurs, the accumulation of organic acids can reduce the pH below 4.5, severely affecting the activity of internal fermentation bacteria in the compost, causing them to cease activity, enter dormancy, or die. At this point, a manure turner is required to aerate the material by turning the pile. After turning, the material becomes relatively more breathable, ensuring sufficient oxygen content. Adequate oxygen levels can restore the pH environment of organic waste like manure to the normal range.

A high pH level reduces the activity of many fermenting bacteria, impairing their ability to decompose and proliferate materials. If the pH exceeds 11.5, fermenting bacteria begin to die off in large numbers, leading to protein denaturation and enzyme protein inactivation within the fermentation material. This affects the fermentation cycle and compromises the quality of organic fertilizer.

However, the pH of common fermentation materials does not require adjustment. Materials that do not need pH regulation include: livestock manure, sludge from wastewater treatment plants, straw, peat, mushroom residue, etc. The typical pH range for normal composting fermentation is 5-9. If the pH exceeds 9 during manure fermentation, adjustments can be made by adding ferric chloride, alum, strong acids, or returning compost material. If the pH falls below 4, lime or peat ash can typically be added for regulation. Proper pH adjustment during manure fermentation can influence the fermentation environment, promoting the growth, reproduction, and decomposition of fermentation bacteria. This shortens the fermentation cycle and enhances the quality and effectiveness of the resulting organic fertilizer.

The above is an introduction to the regulation of pH values in organic fertilizer equipment, which we hope will be helpful to you.