Spectroscopic and Wet Chemical Characterization of Solid Waste Organic Matter of Different Age in Landfill Sites, Southern Germany.

This article discusses the microbial biodegradation of organic wastes in landfill in Bavaria, Southern Germany. The authors analyzed the chemical composition, degree of transformation and moisture content using carbon isotope nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy for carbohydrates, lipids, proteins and lignins. According to the authors, chemical and spectroscopic variables indicate a generally low extent of transformation and biodegradation at all sites. More than half of the carbohydrate organic matter showed a high potential for methane emissions and energy production. They recommend seepage water cleaning and recirculation systems to optimize moisture contents for energy production.