Transformation and characterisation of industrial poultry waste as a fertilizer

Abstract

The poultry industry faces growing waste production due to increased demand. To address environmental impacts responsibly, effective waste management must consider constituent elements, physical and chemical processes, and circular economy practices. This study focuses on converting poultry industry waste (poultry meat and bone meal) through pyrolysis into high-performance agricultural products, including biochar, to improve soil fertility, water retention, aeration, pH, organic matter, and cation exchange capacity. Various treatments applied to the feedstock were comparatively analyzed, investigating parameters such as final yield, pH, electrical conductivity, and metal content. Color values using CIE Lab parameters were also examined. Results showed that the feedstock subjected to 350°C exhibited lower pH and electrical conductivity. Multivariate analysis of CIE Lab parameters revealed biochar clusters based on color. Acid-treated meat and bone meal (MBM) displayed higher Ca and Mg concentrations, while untreated feedstock had elevated K and Na concentrations at higher temperatures. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) identified two distinct biochar clusters, indicative of different processing methods. Using poultry (MBM) biochar as a primary feedstock offers an eco-friendly waste management solution for the poultry industry, creating a novel soil amendment byproduct from underutilized waste materials.