Academic Project2023

Smart Compost Monitoring System

IoT-enabled composting system with automated monitoring of temperature, humidity, pH levels, and aeration control for optimal decomposition conditions

Project Overview

Developed an intelligent composting system that automatically monitors and controls environmental conditions to optimize the decomposition process. The system uses IoT sensors and automated actuators to maintain ideal composting conditions.

The project addresses sustainable waste management by combining environmental science with IoT technology, creating an efficient solution for organic waste processing that reduces manual intervention while maximizing compost quality.

Technical Implementation

Sensor Network & Monitoring

  • DHT22 sensors for temperature and humidity monitoring
  • pH sensor probes for acidity level measurement
  • Moisture sensors for optimal water content tracking
  • Gas sensors (CO2, CH4) for decomposition process monitoring

Automated Control Systems

  • Arduino Mega 2560 as main controller unit
  • Servo motors for automated compost mixing and aeration
  • Water pump system for moisture control
  • Ventilation fans for oxygen regulation

Data Management & Interface

  • ESP32 module for WiFi connectivity and data transmission
  • ThingSpeak cloud platform for data logging and visualization
  • Mobile app for remote monitoring and control
  • Alert system for parameter threshold violations

Smart Composting Features

Temperature Control

Maintains optimal 55-65°C range for thermophilic decomposition

Moisture Management

Automated watering system to maintain 50-60% moisture content

pH Balancing

Monitors and alerts for optimal 6.5-8.0 pH range

Aeration Control

Automated mixing and ventilation for proper oxygen levels

Gas Monitoring

Tracks CO2 and methane levels for process optimization

Remote Monitoring

Real-time data visualization and mobile notifications

Technologies & Components

Arduino Mega
ESP32
DHT22
pH Sensors
Moisture Sensors
Gas Sensors
Servo Motors
Water Pumps
ThingSpeak
C++
Mobile App
WiFi
Alert System
Data Logging
Cloud Storage
Real-time Monitoring

Technical Challenges & Solutions

Key Challenges

  • Sensor calibration in harsh composting environment
  • Maintaining consistent temperature throughout compost pile
  • Preventing sensor corrosion from organic acids
  • Balancing automation with natural decomposition processes

Implemented Solutions

  • Protective housing and regular calibration routines
  • Multiple temperature sensors and active mixing systems
  • Stainless steel sensors and protective coatings
  • Adaptive algorithms based on composting science principles

Sustainability Impact & Future Applications

Waste Management Innovation

Demonstrates how IoT technology can optimize organic waste processing, reducing landfill burden and creating valuable soil amendments.

Urban Agriculture Support

Provides high-quality compost for urban farming initiatives, supporting local food production and soil health improvement.

Scalable Technology

System design can be scaled for community composting facilities and industrial organic waste processing applications.