In our dynamic world of many raw materials and human resources, innovations are sure to emerge. This work will discuss one of such mind-captivating creations. The creation in focus may provoke a weird feeling because of the source through which the production is done. However, trust me; you will be wowed by the end result.
So what is this innovation? It is Poop-To-Power (PTP). Not new to some, I guess. PTP, also known as Waste-to-Energy (WtE), is the process where both human and animal wastes (feces) are converted to electricity, heat, biofuels, and manure. These products all have their different processes when made. PTP is indeed one of its kind. It brought to light the fact that there is actually energy potential in human organic waste that can be harnessed to produce renewable energy. Who would ever believe this?
In our society, where constant power supply is for the high and mighty, considering the current cost of fuel and the economic reality, here is an innovation that could bring an end to total blackout for all. It would really be a thing of joy for everyone if this idea is implemented in every major city and town in Nigeria. But will our leaders be willing to take on this task to illuminate millions of households with this innovation and end this endless blackout? Well! This question is rhetorical.
Besides the fact that the organic wastes of humans can be converted to sustainable renewable energy, there are other benefits that come with this innovation. It can be a means of sustainable management of organic waste. What this means is that if this innovation is put to use, our streets would be free from both animal and human poop. This, in a way, will solve a part of our environmental issues and also improve health conditions. Instead of being tainted with poop, which transmits diseases, the poop can be harnessed to supply power to our homes. How wonderful would that be?
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Other benefits include:
- Poop-to-power minimizes the need for reliance on fossil fuels, which can help to save costs.
- It reduces the release of carbon dioxide.
- It decreases the need for and use of chemical fertilizers.
These and more are the many benefits of poop-to-power. This innovation is indeed a wonder to explore
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The Procedure of Power Generation Using Poop
Collection and Transportation: Human or animal feces are collected and transported to the biogas plant.
Pre-Treatment: The organic waste is processed to remove impurities, such as plastics, and then mixed to achieve an even density.
Anaerobic Digestion: The treated organic waste is placed in an oxygen-free digester tank, where microorganisms break down the organic matter, releasing biogas, primarily methane (CH₄) and carbon dioxide (CO₂).
Gas Capture and Processing: The collected biogas is purified to remove contaminants such as hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) and surplus carbon dioxide (CO₂). This improves its quality for use as fuel.
Energy Generation: The purified gas can be used in several ways: a. As fuel for cooking or heating. b. Upgraded to biomethane for use as renewable natural gas. c Burned in a generator to produce electricity
By-products: The leftover materials, called digestate, can be dried and used as nutrient-rich fertilizer for agricultural purposes.