Primo Ricercatore

Dottore di Ricerca (Ph.D) in Chimica Agraria

e-mail CNR

Skype: roberto.altieri.cnr

Tel:+39 075.5014540

I am a researcher with a strong background in developing and evaluating innovative, sustainable biological processes for the valorization of agro-industrial waste with agronomic purposes. My main expertise lies in optimizing aerobic bioprocesses, particularly composting, to efficiently transform organic residues into stable, mature amendments that can serve as effective alternatives to peat and synthetic fertilizers.

A key focus of my work is assessing the agronomic value of the resulting compost, in terms of nutrient content, organic matter quality, maturity, and stability.

I also investigate emissions released during the composting process and carry out detailed mass balance studies using the COMPOSTER, a lab-scale pilot plant that I helped design and build in-house at ISAFOM-PG, and which has been widely validated.

In parallel, I conduct studies on the ultimate biodegradability and compost ability of bioplastics and plastic items, both in compost and in soil.

These are carried out using BIODEG, another lab-scale device I developed and validated according to European standards (UNI EN ISO 13432, 14855-1, 17556, 14045).

My recent activities include designing simplified and cost-effective composting strategies, such as the SANSOIL method, for the bioremediation of olive mill waste.

I’ve worked extensively on optimizing composting processes for a wide variety of organic waste, crop residues, pruning waste, frass, livestock manure, and digestates using the COMPOSTER system, with an eye toward scaling up to larger pilot applications.

I’m particularly interested in the role of biochar and zeolites in co-composting systems, as they can reduce undesirable emissions (such as ammonia and VOCs) and improve the final compost’s agronomic quality.

I also assist companies in designing new bioplastics that comply with European compost ability standards.

Most recently, I’ve been working on the formulation of customs, peat-free growth media based on compost and zeolites for use in high-value nursery crops.

These media are tailored for enhanced plant performance and may exhibit suppressive effects against soil-borne pathogens, contributing to more sustainable and resilient horticultural systems

CV Altieri