Actively Aerated Johnson Su BEAM Compost

Actively Aerated Johnson Su (BEAM) Compost – A Cold Climate Solution?

Johnson Su (BEAM) composting consists of placing material in an enclosure with aeration shafts every 12”. In cold climates, the stack effect from the 4” vent shafts provides too much cold air flow that then quickly cools the entire pile shutting down microbial activity. In cold climates with limited passive solar potential, this approach necessitates an expensive heated space to keep the material warm. In addition, the vent shafts also provide an easy way for applied water to exit the material rather than being absorbed.

In Aerated Static Pile composting, the material is kept warm in winter by providing the right amout of oxygen to keep the pile microbiologically active and covering the pile. Air is injected at timed intervals into a plenum at the base of the pile consisting of a course, porous material such as large wood chips. Above, the pile is insulated with a layer of wood chips, finished compost, breathable fabric, or similar.

International Symposium Recovery Of Organic Waste Through Composting Process
https://www.researchgate.net

BEAM compost produced in cold climates needs active temperature monitoring and controlling of air flow either by regulating the amount the tops of vent shafts are opened or by changing air blower times in an aerated static pile. Furthermore, insulation is a necessity. Creating an aerated static pile with additional insulation seems to be a viable solution for BEAM composting in cold climates.

Actively Aerated Johnson Su (BEAM) Pros
• Provides precise air movement through the material
• Too warm or too cold temperatures can be controlled with air infusion
• Air infusion can be used to dry out too-wet materials
• Composting material may be placed in a windrow rather than an enclosure
• Does not require making an enclosure and placing vent pipes every 12”
• Eliminates water runoff through the vent shafts
• Compared to a rigid encl..