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Project PDF Tentative
Project PDF Tentative
PROJECT REPORT
ON
“Utilizing Kitchen Waste for Making Fertilizer”
DIPLOMA IN
MECHANICAL ENGINEERING
GUIDED BY
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SHIKSHAN MAHARSHI DADASAHEB RAWAL
GOVERNMENT
POLYTECHNIC, DHULE
CERTIFICATE
This is to certify that the project report entitled “Utilizing Kitchen Waste for Making
Fertilizer” Was Successfully completed by Student of sixth semester Diploma in Mechanical
engineering
In partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of the Diploma Mechanical engineering
and submitted to the Department of Mechanical engineering of Shikshan Maharshi
Dadasaheb Rawal Government Polytechnic, Dhule (0017) work carried out during a period
for the academic year 2023-24 as per curriculum.
(Principal)
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
We are deeply grateful to Dr. R.G. Wadekar Sir, Our principal, Dr. P.G. Gadhari Sir, our
head of department and the mechanical engineering department, Shikshan Maharshi
Dadasaheb Rawal Government Polytechnic, Dhule, for allowing us to work on this project
and their kind support throughout our academic year.
We extend our Sincere Gratitude to words our Project guide Prof. Avinash Tamkhane Sir for
his Constant support and help during the entire work. This project would not have been
possible without his Technical expertise, his constant encouragement, inspection, Valuable
discussions and timely interactive sessions. It was my pleasure to work under his guidance.
We are Thankful and Fortunate enough to gate constant encouragement, support and guidance
from all the teachers, staff of Department of Mechanical Engineering which help us to
successfully completing our project work.
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INDEX
1 Abstract 5
2 Chapter 1
1.1 introduction 6
3 Chapter 2
2.1 literature review 7-9
2.2 objective 10
4 Chapter 3 11
3.1 history of project
5 Chapter 4
4.1 methodology 12-13
4.2 description of material 14-18
4.3 things to know about kitchen waste into 19
fertilizer.
6 Chapter 5
5.1 maintenance 20
5.2 analysis of the waste to eco friendly 21-23
system
7 Chapter 6
6.1 cost estimation 24-25
6.2 advantages & Dis- advantages 26
6.3 application area 27
8 Chapter 7
7.1 future modification 28
7.2 final model
7.3 conclusion
7.4 reference
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ABSTRACT
The increasing concern for environmental sustainability has prompted the exploration of eco-friendly
solutions for waste management and agricultural practices. This project aims to address this challenge
by developing a system for converting kitchen waste into a nutrient-rich homemade fertilizer using
earthworms. The process involves the vermicomposting of organic kitchen waste, facilitated by
earthworms, to produce a dry and nutrient-dense fertilizer suitable for plant growth.
The project emphasizes the efficient utilization of kitchen waste, such as fruit and vegetable scraps,
coffee grounds, and eggshells, to minimize the environmental impact of organic waste disposal.
Earthworms play a crucial role in the vermicomposting process by breaking down the organic matter
into nutrient-rich castings, enhancing the overall fertility of the fertilizer.
The successful implementation of this project offers a scalable and community-driven solution to
reduce kitchen waste, enhance soil fertility, and contribute to sustainable agriculture. The findings of
this research can potentially have far-reaching implications for promoting environmental stewardship
and fostering a greener approach to both waste management and agriculture on a broader scale.
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CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
In response to the pressing need for sustainable waste management and eco-friendly agricultural
practices, this project explores the potential of vermicomposting—utilizing earthworms—to convert
kitchen waste into a nutrient-rich homemade fertilizer. By addressing the dual challenges of kitchen
waste disposal and reliance on synthetic fertilizers, we aim to create an affordable and environmentally
friendly solution. Through controlled vermicomposting systems, waste optimization, and
environmental monitoring, this project seeks to empower individuals to actively contribute to a
greener and more sustainable future.
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CHAPTER 2
LITERATURE SURVEY
Publisher: ELSEVIER
Author: M.A. Vázquez, M. Soto
Dept. of Physical Chemistry and Chemical Engineering I, University of A Coruña, Galiza, Spain
Abstract:
The efficiency of home composting programmes and the quality of the produced compost was
evaluated in eight rural areas carrying out home composting programmes (up to 880
composting bins) for all household biowaste including meat and fish leftovers. Efficiency was
analysed in terms of reduction of organic waste collected by the municipal services. An
efficiency of 77% on average was obtained, corresponding to a composting rate of 126
kg/person·year of biowaste (or 380 kg/composter·year). Compost quality was determined for
a total of 90 composting bins. The operation of composting bins by users was successful, as
indicated by a low C/N ratio (10–15), low inappropriate materials (or physical contaminant
materials, mean of 0.27 ± 0.44% dry matter), low heavy metal content (94% of samples met
required standards for agricultural use) and high nutrient content (2.1% N, 0.6% P, 2.5% K,
0.7% Mg and 3.7% Ca on average, dry matter). The high moisture (above 70% in 48% of the
samples) did not compromise the compost quality. Results of this study show that home
composting of household organic waste including meat and fish leftovers is a feasible practice.
Home composting helps individuals and families to reduce the amount of household waste at
the same time gaining a fertiliser material (compost) of excellent quality for gardens or
vegetable plots.
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Microbial Degradation Of Organic Waste Through Vermicomposting
Abstract:
Every habitation produces a considerable amount of biodegradable waste that is discarded via
dumping at various sites, in landfills, being burnt or is dumped in the river systems. Guyana is no
exception - the water ways are polluted with plants, grass is constantly mowed from lawns, huge
amounts of market refuse on a daily basis – contributes to unsightly land pollution.
Vermicomposting is the best solution to getting rid of these biodegradable waste materials.
Composting of grass, water hyacinth and a combination of grass with water hyacinth were
successful. Final compost yields were at least 30%. This represents a huge decrease in compost
volume. Therefore, vermiculture is an efficient method to reduce biodegradable solid waste. By
using earthworms, waste is rapidly turned into vermicompost. Vermicompost has higher
microorganism content and the activities of microorganisms (Actinomycetes, Azotobacter,
Nitrobacter, Nitrosomonas and Aspergillus) is responsible for enhanced plant productivity much
more than would be possible from the mere conversion of mineral nutrients into more plant-
available forms. Also, during this period, there is a reduction of Gram negative cocci bacteria and
corresponding increase in Gram positive bacilli as time progresses towards the maturity of the
vermicompost in all three compost samples. This would indicate a healthier finished product that
is highly beneficial to plant growth.
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Design and performance evaluation of a new hybrid solar dryer
Publisher: ELSEVIER4, April 2010
Author: M.A. Hossain b, K. Gottschalk c
Abstract:
A hybrid solar dryer was designed and constructed using direct solar energy and a heatexchanger.
The dryer consists of solar collector, reflector, heat exchanger cum heat storage unit and drying
chamber. The drying chamber was located under the collector. The dryer was operated during
normal sunny days as a solar dryer, and during cloudy day as a hybrid solar dryer. Drying was
also carried out at night with stored heat energy in water which was collectedduring the time of
sun-shine and with electric heaters located at water tank. The efficiency of thesolar dryer was
raised by recycling about 65% of the drying air in the solar dryer and exhaustinga small amount
of it outside the dryer. Under Mid-European summer conditions it can raise up the air
temperature from 30 to 40 °C above the ambient temperature. The solar dryer was tested for
drying of ripe banana slices. The capacity of the dryer was to dry about 30 kg of banana slicesin 8
h in sunny day from an initial moisture content of 82% to the final moisture content of 18%(wb).
In the same time it reduced to only 62% (wb) moisture content in open sun drying method.The
colour, aroma and texture of the solar dried products were better than the sun drying
products
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OBJECTIVE
1. Waste Reduction: The primary goal of this project is to significantly reduce household
waste. By effectively converting organic waste, such as vegetable scraps and garbage, into
valuable resources, we aim to minimize the amount of waste ending up in landfills or being
incinerated. Waste reduction is essential for reducing environmental pollution, conserving
landfill space, and easing the burden on waste management systems.
4. Nutrient Recycling: Optimizing nutrient recycling is a critical goal. We plan to utilize the
nutrient-rich water from the guppy fish tank to nourish hydroponically grown plants. This
approach ensures that valuable nutrients are efficiently repurposed within the system,
minimizing the loss of nutrients and making the system more resource-efficient.
6. Education and Awareness: In addition to the practical objectives, the project aims to raise
awareness about responsible waste management and sustainable agriculture practices.
Educational programs and outreach activities will be conducted to inform and inspire
individuals within the community. This aspect of the project seeks to empower people to adopt
eco-friendly solutions in their own households.
7. Economic Viability: While primarily focused on environmental and social benefits, the
project also aims to explore the economic viability of the process. We will assess the cost
effective ness of converting household waste into valuable resources, including the production
of organic fertilizer. This assessment includes potentially generating income through the sale
of surplus resources, demonstrating the economic value of sustainable practices
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CHAPTER 3
HISTROY OF PROJECT
1. Ancient Agricultural Practices: Ancient civilizations, such as the Egyptians, Greeks, and
Romans, used organic materials like animal manure and crop residues to enhance soil fertility.
They understood that these materials helped improve crop yields.
2. Chinese Agricultural Traditions: In ancient China, practices such as crop rotation and the
use of organic matter in agriculture were well-documented. The Chinese also developed
innovative techniques like composting to convert organic waste into valuable fertilizers.
3. The Middle Ages: During the Middle Ages in Europe, farmers continued to rely on organic
materials for soil improvement. Manure from livestock and composting became common
methods of recycling organic waste for agricultural benefit.
4. The Industrial Revolution: With the onset of the Industrial Revolution in the 18th and 19th
centuries, agriculture underwent significant changes. Synthetic fertilizers, such as ammonium
nitrate and superphosphate, were introduced, leading to increased agricultural productivity. This
marked a departure from traditional organic farming practices.
5. 20th Century and the Green Revolution: The mid-20th century saw the advent of the Green
Revolution, which focused on increasing crop yields through the use of synthetic fertilizers,
pesticides, and improved crop varieties.
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CHAPTER 4
METHODOLOGY
3. Continuous Improvement:
- Regularly assess the project's performance and seek opportunities for optimization.
- Explore potential innovations or modifications to enhance the system's efficiency and
effectiveness.
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LIST OF MATERIAL
SR. NO MATERIAL
1 Steel Sheet
2 1.5 Inch Angles
3 Bicycle Chain Drive
4 DC Motor 12V
5 Battery 12V
6 Screw
7 Bearing
8 Screw Conveyor
9 Household Organic Waste
10 Solar Dryer
11 Vermicomposting bin or container
12
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DESCRIPTION OF COMPONENTS USED IN THE EXPERIMENT
1. Steel Sheet:
Steel sheets can be used for constructing frames, structural supports, or protective
covers fordifferent elements of the project. They provide durability and stability to the
system.
2. 1 Inch Angles:
1 inch steel angles are commonly used for creating sturdy frames and structural
support forvarious components, ensuring the stability and integrity of the project.
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4. DC Motor (12V):
A DC motor is used to drive specific components, such as aeration systems or agitators
in thecomposting process. It converts electrical energy into mechanical motion.
Connected to the screw conveyor shaft.
5. Battery 12V:
The 12V battery provides power to the DC motor, ensuring its consistent and
efficientoperation, even in locations without access to grid electricity.
6. Screw:
Screws are essential for securing different parts and components in the project, whether
you'reattaching or fastening steel sheeting to a frame.
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7. Bearing:
Bearings are components that reduce friction, enabling smooth rotation or movement in
certainparts of the project. They are essential for machinery like compost turners.
8. Screw Conveyor:
Use the screw conveyor for continuous waste movement. Used for kitchen waste passing
through Hopper.
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1. Household Organic Waste:
Household organic waste consists of vegetable scraps and organic garbage collected from the
kitchen. It's the primary raw material for the composting component.
2. Solar Dryer:
A solar dryer can be used to dry organic waste before composting. This reduces moisture
content, speeds up decomposition, and prevents odors in the composting process.
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9. Vermicomposting Bin or Container:
The vermicomposting bin is the designated container where earthworms process organic waste,
turning it into valuable and nutrient-rich fertilizer for plants.
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Things To Know About Utilizing Kitchen Waste into Fertilizer
In embarking on a project to convert home waste into fertilizer through a comprehensive system
involving a shredder, screw conveyor, tray system, earthworms, and a solar dryer, several critical
considerations must be taken into account. Firstly, the selection of waste materials should be
deliberate, focusing on compostable vegetable and food waste while avoiding contaminants that could
compromise the composting process.
The efficiency of the shredder and the design of the screw conveyor are crucial aspects, requiring
careful consideration to ensure effective waste processing. Designing the tray system involves factors
such as proper drainage, aeration, and dimensions to support optimal composting conditions.
Choosing suitable earthworms for vermicomposting and maintaining ideal conditions within the tray
system are vital for successful composting. The solar dryer, a key component, must be designed for
efficient solar energy utilization, with a focus on balancing drying time for maximum effectiveness.
Safety considerations, both in the operation of machinery and the handling of earthworms, are
paramount.
Additionally, adherence to environmental regulations and the continuous collection and analysis of
data to evaluate system efficiency and fertilizer quality are integral to project success. The project
should promote a culture of continuous improvement, with opportunities for community engagement
and education on sustainable waste management practices. Overall, a holistic approach that integrates
technical considerations, environmental compliance, and community involvement is essential for the
success of the home waste conversion project.
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CHAPTER 5
MAINTANENCE
Maintenance plays a crucial role in ensuring the sustained functionality and efficiency of the home
waste conversion project. Regular and systematic checks on the shredder, screw conveyor, tray
system, earthworm habitats, and the solar dryer are imperative. For the shredder, attention should be
given to blade sharpness and motor functionality, with routine cleaning to prevent clogging.
The screw conveyor demands periodic inspections for any signs of wear or misalignment, with
lubrication as needed to guarantee smooth operation. The tray system requires vigilant monitoring of
moisture levels, proper aeration, and periodic cleaning to prevent any accumulation of residues.
Earthworm habitats necessitate checks on population health, ensuring their continued activity and
well-being within the composting system. The solar dryer should be inspected for any damage to its
structure or solar panels, and its performance in harnessing solar energy for drying should be regularly
assessed.
In the event of any malfunction or decline in efficiency, prompt repairs or adjustments should be made
to prevent disruptions to the composting process. Additionally, documentation of maintenance
activities and the creation of a maintenance schedule are essential for tracking the system's health over
time and identifying any patterns or trends that may require modification or improvement. A proactive
and comprehensive maintenance strategy ensures the longevity and reliability of the waste conversion
system, contributing to its overall success in sustainable fertilizer production.
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ANALYSIS OF THE WASTE TO ECO-FERTILIZER SYSTEM
First we start by collecting all the kitchen scraps and organic waste from our homes. Think about
things like the peels from fruits and vegetables, coffee grounds, and any organic materials that
aren't meat or dairy.
But here's the catch: we need to sort through what we've collected. We've got to be like detectives
and remove any non-organic items. So, anything that's not food or comes from nature, like plastic,
glass, or metal, needs to go out. We want only the good organic stuff for our compost.
Stage 2: Composting:
Now, let's get to the exciting part – composting. This is where the real transformation happens.
We set up a special container or bin where we put all the organic waste we collected.
To make it work like a charm, we layer the organic waste with other organic materials like dried
leaves, yard clippings, or shredded newspaper. This mix is crucial because it creates a balanced
environment for decomposition.
Compost needs air to breathe, just like we do. So, we have to turn it or mix it regularly. This
gives the microorganisms inside the compost what they need to break everything down.
We also keep an eye on the temperature in there. Higher temperatures are a sign that things are
breaking down nicely. It's like a compost party!
The best part? We get something called "compost tea." It's not what it sounds like – it's liquid
gold for your plants, packed with all the good nutrients.
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Stage 3: Aquaponics and Hydroponics:
This is where we take care of our plants and even have some fishy friends in the mix.
We set up a fancy tank for guppy fish. It's like their luxury hotel, complete with filters and
bubbles to keep them happy and healthy.
Remember that compost tea we made in Stage 2? We take that and pour it into a hydroponic
system. It's like giving our plants a special treat – all those nutrients make them grow super fast.
In the hydroponic system, we create the perfect setup for our plants. Instead of soil, we use
things like clay balls. It's like a five-star resort for their roots.
We pick some plant pals, like lettuce or basil, and let them soak their roots in the nutrient-rich
water. They love it, and they grow up really strong and healthy.
Time to give some love to the unsung heroes – earthworms. We set up a cozy bin, usually
indoors or under some shelter. We fill the bin with a comfy bedding material. Think of it like
making their beds with shredded newspaper, cardboard, or coconut coir.
Now, it's time to invite the earthworms. We often use red wrigglers or composting worms.
They're the real champs in this stage.
Anything that didn't quite make it in the previous stages gets a second chance here. The
earthworms work their magic, breaking it all down into what we lovingly call "worm poop."
This worm poop is like gold for our garden – it's super rich in nutrients.
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Stage 5: Assembly Of All Components:
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Chapter 6
COST ESTIMATION
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MACHINING COST
SR.NO PROCESS MACHINE USE TOTAL COST
1 Welding
2 Soldering
3 Cutting
4
5
TOTAL
COST
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Advantages & Dis- advantages
Advantages:
Reduces the need for purchasing commercial fertilizers, resulting in potential cost savings.
Dis-Advantages:
Fertilizer quality may vary based on waste composition and environmental factors.
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APPLICATION AREA
1. Household Waste Management: Utilize the system for managing household vegetable and
food waste, reducing the overall waste burden on landfills.
2. Urban Gardening and Agriculture: Apply the produced fertilizer to support urban gardening
initiatives or small-scale agriculture, enhancing soil fertility.
4. Educational Programs: Use the project as an educational tool to teach communities about
composting, waste reduction, and sustainable agriculture.
5. Public Spaces and Parks: Integrate the system in public spaces or parks to manage green
waste and contribute to the maintenance of green areas.
7. Schools and Institutions: Introduce the project in schools and institutions to promote
environmental awareness and engage students in sustainable practices.
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Chapter 7
FUTURE MODIFICATION
1. Smart Sensors and Monitoring: Incorporate smart sensors to monitor key parameters such
as temperature, moisture levels, and earthworm activity, providing real-time data for optimized
composting.
2. Remote Monitoring and Control: Implement remote monitoring and control capabilities,
enabling users to manage the system and receive updates through mobile applications or
online platforms.
4. Alternative Energy Sources: Investigate the use of alternative renewable energy sources,
such as wind or biogas, to supplement or replace solar energy in regions with varying sunlight
availability.
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REFERENCE
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0196890409004610
https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/12/11/4456
https://www.agronomy.it/index.php/agro/article/view/1012
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/0734242X17726164
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0065211309010086
https://www.scirp.org/html/4-
3000330_24396.htm?utm_source=zalo&utm_medium=zalo&utm_campaign=zalo&zarsrc=
30
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CONCLUSION
In the pursuit of sustainable waste management and agricultural practices, the project "Utilizing
Kitchen Waste for Fertilizer Production" stands as an innovative solution. By converting
household vegetable and food waste into nutrient-rich compost, this initiative addresses the
environmental challenges associated with kitchen waste disposal. Through a meticulously
designed system involving a shredder, screw conveyor, tray system, earthworms, and a solar
dryer, the project not only reduces the burden on landfills but also contributes to the creation of
organic fertilizer for sustainable agriculture. While showcasing clear advantages such as waste
reduction, renewable energy use, and community engagement, the project's success relies on
careful maintenance and consideration of initial setup costs. Looking to the future, opportunities
for automation, smart monitoring, and scalability present exciting prospects for enhancing
efficiency and expanding the positive impact of utilizing kitchen waste for fertilizer production.
As communities increasingly embrace eco-friendly living practices, this project serves as a
beacon of innovation, demonstrating the transformative potential of repurposing kitchen waste in
creating a more sustainable and resilient future.
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