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.
Composting microbes use carbon for energy and nitrogen for growth (protein synthesis). When you mix various forms of organic material in your compost bin, it is important to achieve a proper balance of carbon to nitrogen (C:N ratio).The proportion can vary; the microbes will function well at C:N ratios from 25:1 to 40:1. Compost is a valuable and free soil amendment that saves gardeners the money used to buy alternatives, such as peat moss, fertilizer, or vermiculite. 2  Compost improves soil tilth, aeration, and water-holding capacity and contains a wide range of plant nutrients.