Changes occurring in the organic matter during the decomposition of compost heaps

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Abstract
1. The decomposition of the organic matter of four medium to large-scale composts has been studied by analysis of samples taken at intervals.2. The bulk materials of the composts were grass-cuttings, oat-straw,Sphagnumpeat and anEriophorumandSphagnumpeat. All were made up to the same nutrient-content and relative water content.3. The analytical method used was a modification of the scheme of proximate analysis used by Waksman and by Shewan. It was supplemented by ammonia and nitrate determinations, using Olsen's method.4.Observations.A.All composts.(i) An increase in ammonia, water-soluble nitrogen and water-soluble organic matter took place during the first month.(ii) Only low nitrate concentrations were developed.(iii) Very closely parallel changes in H2SO4-soluble nitrogen and residual nitrogen were recorded.(iv) Other nitrogen changes can be described as slight and on the whole as mutually compensating fluctuations.