Introduction of Swelling Agents in Organic Fertilizer

Swelling agents is an organic or inorganic substance which is mainly used to maintain the structure and ventilation of the compost matrix so that the pile of compost material will not collapse. Sometimes it is also called fluffy particles. The swelling agents forms a three-dimensional solid particle structure, which can support itself through the interconnection between particles.

If the swelling agent is organic, it can also increase the energy content of the mixture. 3~5mm long wood chip is the most common swelling agent. There are some other swelling agents including granular wastes, broken tires, peanut shells, tree trimmings, etc.

Matrix, a conditioning agents and swelling agents are all contained in the material.