For this project, compost analysis is as specified in BS PAS 100:2002, pg 30. The analyses are being performed at Wellesbourne, with the exception of the microbial and heavy metal analyses which will be undertaken by Direct Laboratories, Wolverhampton.

i) Visual inspection

• Texture
• Colour
• Particle size
• Presence of contaminants
• Presence of oversize material

ii) Laboratory characterisation of composts

• Moisture content
• Conductivity
• Organic matter
• Bulk density
• Water-holding capacity
• pH
• Total nutrients
• Microbial analysis including coliforms, Salmonella and Escherichia coli
• Heavy metal analysis

iii) Proximate analysis

• Carbohydrates, phenolics, cellulose, lignin, ash