2025/10/31
Hollow Oil palm empty fruit bunch (OPEFB) are rich in cellulose, lignin, and small amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, making them a high-quality raw material for organic fertilizer. However, the following points should be noted during processing in an organic fertilizer production line to ensure the efficacy and safety of the finished product.
First, proper pretreatment of raw materials is crucial. The fibers of hollow oil palm fruit bunches are coarse, hard, and tough, requiring crushing into 3-5 cm pieces to increase the contact area with microorganisms and accelerate decomposition.
Second, controlling decomposition conditions is essential. During composting, maintain a moisture content of 50%-60% (they should clump together without dripping water when squeezed, and crumble easily when released). Regularly turn the pile to provide oxygen and maintain a temperature of 55-65℃ for 15-20 days. This kills pathogens and insect eggs and promotes the conversion of lignin and other difficult-to-decompose substances.
Furthermore, determining the completion point of decomposition is critical. Completely decomposed material should be dark brown, without obvious fibrous structure, feel loose, have a stable pH of 6.5-7.5, and have no pungent odor. If the compost is incomplete, it will continue to decompose and consume oxygen after being applied to the soil, leading to oxygen deficiency in the crop roots. If it is over-composted, it may cause nutrient loss. The degree of composting needs to be determined by testing the humic acid content or germination rate.
Furthermore, careful processing and storage of the finished product are crucial. After composting, the material can be sieved to remove impurities. Organic fertilizer equipment can then pulverize the material to the appropriate particle size as needed. If making granular fertilizer, the moisture content should be controlled between 30% and 40% to prevent clumping. Storage should be in a well-ventilated and dry warehouse, covered with plastic film to prevent moisture, secondary fermentation, or mold. It should also be kept away from alkaline substances to avoid affecting fertilizer efficiency.
Following these points will not only fully utilize the resource value of empty fruit bunches of oil palm but also produce safe and efficient organic fertilizer, contributing to agricultural recycling.
