Don & Low has launched its next generation in compost cover fabrics – Windrow TX. The new fabric was designed and created as a result of a recent study conducted by the James Hutton Institute (JHI), which highlighted the need for lightweight and breathable compost covers on open windrow installations — particularly for odor control at sites close to urbanization.

Specifically designed to maximize breathability and durability, the polypropylene (PP) and UV stabilized nonwoven fabric minimizes the critical dimension of weight. At 150g/m2, Windrow TX is less than a third of the weight of conventional compost covers, providing the compost industry with the latest generation of breathable covers for open windrow installations.

Windrow TX provides open windrow sites with greater ease of use, as it can be managed by one person while maintaining the same protection characteristics as traditional, heavier weighted compost cover fabrics. The lightweight textile also excels in odor reduction, increased compost yield and durability.

To quantify the effectiveness and additional benefits of using Windrow TX, a trial was carried out at the Forth Resource Management (FRM) composting site in partnership with the James Hutton Institute.

Tommy Dale, FRM managing director, states, “If it hadn’t been for the covers, we [Forth Resource Management] would have found it difficult to keep composting substantial volumes at the Braehead site.”

Choosing the right open windrow cover is vital to reduce odor, dust and bio-aerosols; as well as providing the right protection from the drying effects of the sun and the wind, and waterlogging from the rain and snow. Windrow TX can provide this type of protection for open windrow installations.

Developed for use in a single layer cover, Windrow TX offers a physical barrier against the release of dust and bioaerosols, while allowing the windrow to breathe. Externally the lightweight cover also provides protection against birds and insects.

Fully recyclable and with enhanced odor reduction capabilities, Windrow TX is a lightweight and cost-effective solution which aids compliance with SEPA (Scottish Environment Protection Agency) BAT (best available technique).