| This study investigated the effects of a lightweight simplified facultative composting regulation technology on compost maturity, humification degree, and heavy metal passivation in sheep manure from slotted floor farming systems in southwestern China. By comparing traditional natural windrow composting (Y) with passive aeration-enhanced simplified composting (YJ), the YJ treatment utilized a "chimney structure" to optimize pile ventilation, significantly improving composting efficiency. Results demonstrated that the YJ treatment achieved a 3 °C higher peak thermophilic phase temperature than traditional composting, with maturity indices (e.g., seed germination index) meeting industry standards within 45 days. The humification degree was markedly enhanced, with the proportion of humic acid-like substances increasing by an average of 19.21% and the humification index (PV/PⅢ) showing significant improvement. Furthermore, the YJ treatment effectively reduced heavy metal bioavailability, decreasing the exchangeable fraction of Cd, Cr, Cu, and other heavy metals by an average reduction of 18.05%. However, nutrient retention (e.g., total nitrogen, total phosphorus) was slightly compromised due to enhanced aeration. This study provides a cost-effective and efficient sheep manure composting technology for small- and medium-scale farms, offering dual benefits of improved compost maturity and reduced environmental risks, thereby contributing to the theoretical and technical foundations for agricultural waste resource utilization. |
