pilot- and full-scale facilities and between
varied feedstocks. At the pilot level, actual MSW and two synthetic MSW formulations (similar C:N,
different available C) were composted. At the full-scale facilities, actual MSW was composted as was
actual MSW amended with nitrogen. The PLFA data generated by all studies was analyzed using
principal component and multivariate statistical methods. The PLFA profiles changed over the
composting process in a consistent and predictable manner. PLFA profiles also proved to be
characteristic of specific stages of composting and may, therefore, be useful in evaluating (and
optimizing) the progress of material processing and product maturity.