Definition - What does Tensile Strength mean? Tensile strength is the ability of a material to withstand a pulling (tensile) force. It is customarily measured in units of force per cross-sectional area. This is an important concept in engineering, especially in the fields of material science, mechanical engineering and structural engineering.
Microorganisms In A Compost Pile. Microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, and actinomycetes account for most of the decomposition that takes place in a pile. They are considered chemical decomposers, because they change the chemistry of organic wastes.
Successful composting combines brown & green organic materials with water & oxygen. 1  Greens -- are high in nitrogen, and provide the building blocks for the protein that microorganisms need to reproduce. 2  Browns -- are high in carbon and provide the carbon source for microorganisms.