Volatile organic compounds conversion pathways and odor gas emission characteristics in chicken manure composting process

Introduction Composting is a highly effective method for managing the growing quantity of agricultural waste, promoting nutrient recycling, and advancing sustainable agriculture. However, significant amounts volatile inorganic compounds (VICs) organic (VOCs) generated during composting process cannot be ignored due to their serious ecological environmental hazards detrimental impact on human health. The types pathways VICs VOCs produced remain not well understood. Methods In this study, we investigated chicken manure straw using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC/MS). We performed qualitative quantitative analyses in emissions gases correlation with odor. Results Our results showed that 44 were detected composting, including 4 oxidation-containing compounds, 2 sulfur-containing organics, 5 alkanes, 19 halogenated 14 aromatic compounds. Aromatic found main component VOCs, accounting 59.14% total content. highest VOC content was pre-composting period, emitting p-Isopropyl Toluene, which reached 7870.50 μg/m 3 . identified eight substances correlated odor concentration ( p < 0.01) are odor-causing need monitored controlled. Discussion study provides important insights into transformation process. It highlights proper management practices control reduce impact.