Let’s delve into the world of simple onsite biodegradable biodigesters, specifically those constructed in Ghana. Over time, these waste management systems have proven to be an effective solution for waste management, offering an eco-friendly alternative to traditional systems.
This article will outline the four primary types of biodigesters built in Ghana.
What is a biodigester?
Essentially, a biodigester is an anaerobic system designed to manage biodegradable waste. The type of biodigester required depends on the specific necessities of the user, which can be determined by understanding the type of facility and their requirements.
Standard Family-Sized Biodigesters
The first variety of biodigesters that we will discuss is the standard family-sized biodigester. This type is ideally suited for a standard family comprising of two adults and two to four children.
This biodigester is typically 5 by 5, i.e., five and a half feet by two and a half feet. It can comfortably accommodate up to six people, with each individual using the facility three times a day. This totals to approximately 18 uses daily. However, the biodigester can be used to its full capacity during special events or gatherings, accommodating over 100 people.
What’s important to note here is the continuous, 24×7 usage. The biodigester’s design allows it to run non-stop, seven days a week, making it a reliable solution for waste management.
Medium-Size Family Biodigesters
The second variant of biodigesters is the medium-sized family biodigester. This type is a popular choice among homeowners due to its ability to cater to larger families without the need for a large biodigester.
The medium-sized biodigester is designed for houses with up to four bedrooms and toilets. It can comfortably accommodate a family of father, mother, children, and any extended family members living with them. The size of this biodigester is three feet by three feet by six feet.
This biodigester is versatile, making it suitable for holiday homes, outer houses, small offices, and other occasionally used facilities.
Large Family Size Biodigester
The third variety is the large family biodigester, designed to cater to large facilities. This type is ideal for properties with five to eight bedrooms, along with additional quarters and rental properties.
The size of this biodigester is six and a half feet by six feet by three and a half inches, designed to accommodate a maximum of 30 flushes per day.
A key aspect to consider while installing this type of biodigester is ensuring a proper soakaway for the excess water. In many cases, it is recommended to install two standard family-sized biodigesters instead of a single large one. This helps distribute the usage and reduces the pressure on a single biodigester.
Commercial-Size Biodigesters
Lastly, we have the commercial or industrial type of biodigester. This type is designed for commercial, light industrial uses, and large facilities.
These biodigesters are large, ranging from 6 feet to 8 feet, and can accommodate up to 200 uses per day, depending on the type of wastewater treatment designed for it.
Constructing a commercial biodigester requires careful planning, particularly for wastewater treatment. It’s essential to design an outlet for the water due to the large amount of water that enters the digester.
At the end of the day, these four types of biodigesters serve as a testament to the diversity and adaptability of these eco-friendly solutions in Ghana. Each biodigester variant has been designed keeping in mind the user’s lifestyle and specific needs, offering a sustainable solution for waste management.
Download how to construct a simple onsite biodegradable biodigester.
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