The QuikSoil® BACS Process

During shredding or grinding of incoming feedstocks, QuikSoil® 2600 mixed with water is added to the materials as they are discharged. Depending on the feedstock, the correct application dose of QuikSoil® 2600 may be 3, or 4 or more ounces per US ton ( 100 to 130 mil per Imperial tonne). Water is added to the QuikSoil® 2600 as a carrier and as a means of creating sufficient liquid to mix the product evenly throughout each ton. The materials are then moved into piles or rows. One week's material should be used to form a given row or "block". For high volume sites a shorter period may be used, but it is important that - initially - materials separated by more than a week's time are not mixed together. Ideally, rows or blocks will be placed directly next to each other with the lower portions touching. This creates better insulation from cold and wind and creates more efficient heat storage in the materials. It also facilitates migratory activities from row to row as the process progresses.

Moisture is just as important in QuikSoil® BACS as it is in conventional composting. It is essential that materials be sufficiently moist when the rows/blocks are initially formed. Water may be added if needed at the motion points in the process. Materials should not be over-watered. Materials should be damp but liquid should not run out when pressure is applied.

Once blocks are formed, they must be monitored closely for temperature. If the temperature climbs steadily and maintains consistent thermophyllic levels, the materials do not need assistance. LEAVE THE BLOCK ALONE! (On rare occasions a block may not reach desired temperatures. If this occurs, remix the materials and make certain sufficient moisture is available.) After 5 to 7 weeks, temperatures will begin to recede. At this point the material should be moved (turned) with either a side discharge turner or with front skid loaders. The primary function of this turn is to move external items to the inside of the mass. Water may be added at this point as necessary.

4 to 5 weeks later the temperatures will again recede slightly. At this point the materials are turned again. The major function of this turn is to allow moisture to escape. The material should then be left undisturbed for 2 weeks. After this period the compost is ready to be screened and is acceptable for use or marketing at this point. However, a maturation period of 2 to 3 weeks may be implemented after screening if desired, and is highly recommended for maximum quality. During this 2 to 3 week period creatures called actinomycetes will flourish in the material, initially making the surfaces appear silvery gray. As their activities progress, the materials will begin to smell, feel, and look more and more like good soil. After this brief maturation period the compost will be superior to normal composts in every way, and will have the qualities of much older naturally produced composts. Thus, the entire process takes only 12 to 16 weeks with 2 or 3 turns and a trip to the screener.

This process saves our clients 20% to 55% annually on fuel consumption, and results in finished product with high organic matter content. As a bonus, there is a dramatic reduction in process odor throughout.

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