METHANE GAS AS FUEL FROM COMPOST PILE: AN ALTERNATIVE

SOURCE OF ELECTRICAL ENERGY

BAGASALA, MARIA TISHA

JACOB, DANNA ELAINE
PAJARILLAGA, PATRICK

Dasmarias National High School

SSC IV- Galileo
SY 2014-2015

METHANE GAS AS FUEL FROM COMPOST PILE: AN ALTERNATIVE

SOURCE OF ELECTRICAL ENERGY

A High School Thesis Proposal

Presented to the
Science and Technology Department
In partial fulfillment of the requirements in the subject
Research II

By:
Bagasala, Maria Tisha
Jacob, Danna Elaine
Pajarillaga, Patrick

SSC IV- Galileo

SY 2014-2015
March, 2015

CERTIFICATION OF APPROVAL
The study entitled, HEAT ENERGY FROM A COMPOST PILE AS AN
ALTERNATIVE SOURCE OF ELECTRICAL ENERGY conducted by Maria Tisha C.
Bagasala, Danna Elaine A. Jacob and Patrick V. Pajarillaga is hereby presented for
approval:
March, 2015
MELCHOR M. RACQUION
SSTII, MAPEH Department
Thesis Adviser
EDEN R. DAYAUON DEM
SSHTIII, Research Panelist
Committee Chairman

REX REIGNER P. SEA

SSTII, Science and Technology Department

ARNEL R LEGASPI MAEd

SSTI, Mathematics Department

Member

Member
RUFINA M. CRUTO
MTII, TLE-Boys Department
Member

LUZVIMINDA M. BAGO
MTI, Science and Technology Department
Research Teacher

MARIO M. ABEJUELA
SSHTIII, Science and Technology
Department

ANTONIO A. PETILOS
SSHTII, Science and Technology
Department

DAVID E. ATAS, Ed.D.

Principal IV
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
This section contains the gratitude for the people who helped and guided the
researchers in thesis entitled, HEAT ENERGY FROM A COMPOST PILE AS AN
ALTERNATIVE SOURCE OF ELECTRICAL ENERGY:
The researchers owe their deepest gratitude to the Lord God Almighty for
guiding, giving them strength and knowledge, providing faith and love that lead them to
successfully finish their thesis;
The researchers would like to thank their Research II adviser, Mrs. Luzviminda
Bago, Mr. Melchor Racquion, the thesis adviser, and the rest of research committee, Mrs.
Dayauon, Mr. Sea, and Mr. Legaspi for providing and teaching them the process of
completing this thesis;
This thesis would not have been possible without the help of the researchers
parents, Engr. Pajarillaga for providing some steps in making the thesis product and the
help of assembling the product. Mrs. Jacob and Mr. Bagasala, for providing the financial
capital for the thesis;
The researchers are also indebted to their colleagues who supported them in
completing their thesis.

-Researchers

TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
Acknowledgement

iv

Table of Contents

v-vi

Abstract

vii

Chapter I: Problem and its Background

A. Introduction

1-2

B. Statement of the Problem

C. Hypotheses

D. Significance of the Study

E. Scope and Limitation

F. Definition of Terms
G. Conceptual Framework
Chapter II: Review of Related Literature and Related Studies

4-5
5
6-7

Chapter III: Methodology

A. Method of Research Used

B. Materials and Equipment

B.1. Materials

B.2. Equipment

C. General Procedure

D. Research Design
E. Gantt Chart

8-9

9
10-12

F. Evaluation Process

12

G. Statistics to be used

12

ABSTRACT
The study entitled HEAT ENERGY FROM A COMPOST PILE AS AN
ALTERNATIVE SOURCE OF ELECTRICAL ENERGY conducted by Bagasala, Maria
Tisha, Jacob, Danna Elaine, Pajarillaga, Patrick, aimed to produce a homemade source of
methane as an alternative source of energy. Testing whether theres a significant
difference in terms of energy and time, then the watts produced and duration of electricity
will vary significantly in other alternative source of energy. For the product, the materials
and equipments were gathered primarily. First, the inferior was assembled for the storage
of wastes and methane. Next was the mixing of solid wastes and compost pile as the
primary source of methane. Then, the generator was assembled for the conversion of
methane to electricity. Lastly, the circuit connection to the tested appliances was
assembled. The final product was tested by

Chapter I
Problem and its Background
A. Introduction
In the Philippines, there are 770 million people generating an average of 0.3 to 0.7
kilograms of garbage daily and this amount is expected to increase by 40% at the end of
the decade .The Southern Tagalog Region where the municipality of Dasmarias, Cavite

belongs contributes to one of the highest bulks of the countrys solid waste generated of
13 percent (Calderon, 2007). Composting is the natural breakdown of organic material,
such as banana peels and leaves, into a dark, loose and soil-like substance. This substance
is called compost, and is prized by all gardeners. Compost that is added to soil improves
its structure, texture, aeration, and nutrient content. Compost also helps maintain the
soil's pH and improves soil fertility. Landfilling organic wastes is inefficient because the
lack of oxygen inside the landfill causes decomposition to occur slowly. This produces
methane gas and acidic leachate. Methane is a colorless, odorless gas that can cause
asphyxiation and explosions if not properly managed. Acid leachate from the landfill can
contaminate groundwater, which is the source for springs, wells, and drinking water.
(NSW, February 2014)
The rate at which composting occurs depends on several factors. These factors
include: temperature of the compost system, the materials that are placed in the compost,
the particle size of the materials, and the size and shape of the compost system. Heat is a
by-product of composting. It is produced as a result of microbial breakdown of the
organic material in the compost pile. The heat that is produced depends, in part, upon the
carbon-to-nitrogen ratio or C:N ratio. For the best performance, the composting microbes
require the right amount of carbon for energy, and nitrogen for protein production.. A
large-scale compost pile can produce temperatures of 60C70C. (Planet natural,2006).
Through a process known as thermionic conversion, heat energy can be converted into
electricity with very high efficiency. Thermionic generators use the temperature
difference between a hot and a cold metallic plate to create electricity.(Meir, et.al,2013)
The researchers will also use the idea of thermocouples that take advantage of an

electrical effect that occurs at junctions between different metals.(How Stuff

Works,2004). These factors give the researchers an idea of producing a compost pit that
can generate electricity. This specialized compost pit is relatively efficient especially
when electrical lines are out. It also serves as an alternative source of electrical energy.
The researchers will simply made compost pile that can generate heat, so that the
researchers will be able to take advantage of this natural source as an alternative source
of electrical energy.
B. Statement of the Problem
Generally, the study aims to produce an alternative electrical energy using the heat
in the compost pit.
Specifically, the study also aims to answer the following questions:
1. What is the effect on using compost pits heat in producing alternative source of
electrical energy in terms of:
1.1 watts produced; and
1.2 duration of electricity?

C. Hypotheses
Cause and Effect:
If theres a significant difference in terms of energy and time, then the watts
produced and duration of electricity will vary significantly.
D. Significance of the study

The study entitled HEAT ENERGY FROM A COMPOST PILE AS AN

ALTERNATIVE SOURCE OF ELECTRICAL ENERGY will benefit many people and
constituents. They are listed and explained below.
Housewives. It will eventually help the housewives in the community because the
food wastes from their kitchen can produce free source of alternative electrical energy by
using this specialized compost pit. Anyone doesnt have to spend much money on paying
electrical bills. Thru this, it can help to save money for future use.
Community. The useful and relevant information acquired from the study will
encourage them to continue using compost pits to lessen the wastes produced by the
community. And it also serves as a guide to produce alternative electrical energy.
Environment. The study will enhance involvement in lessening the wastes in the
environment.
Researchers. Researchers may find the findings useful because this study may
construct new knowledge for the researchers in terms of producing alternative source of
electrical energy.

E. Scope and Limitations

The study aims to produce an alternative electrical energy using the heat in the
compost pit. The study will be conducted at Pueblocillo Subd. FCIE Dasmarinas City,
Cavite.

The study will discuss an alternative source of electrical energy from compost
pits heat. The study started on the month June by collecting the needed materials for the
study. As estimated, the procedures will take up one to two months to finish up the
product. The gathering of data will take up one month after the product is finished.
Consequently, the main focus of this study is to produce electrical energy from the
heat of the compost pit. It does not seek include appliances that consumes high voltage of
electricity because the researchers will only focus to determine if there is no significant
difference in using heat from compost pit as an alternative in producing electricity.
F. Definition of terms
This part presents the terms used in the study and their meanings as they will be used in
the study.
Black paint. It will absorb sunlight to activate the bacteria that produces methane.
Brass Y connector. Serves as a connector for the three hoses.
Compost. Main source of stored heat to be used.
Elbow. Connects the hose to the container.
Hose clamp. Used to tighten the hose so the methane will not escape from the container.
Shut off valve. Serves as the stopper and opener in the pathway for the methane to
release.
Tire. Serves as a storage of methane gas.
Water container. Container of the compost.
G. Conceptual Framework

Chapter II
Review of Related Literature and Studies
According to NSW, Environment & Heritage, composting is the natural
breakdown of organic material, such as banana peels and leaves, into a dark, loose and
soil-like substance. This substance is called compost, and is prized by all gardeners.

Compost that is added to soil improves its structure, texture, aeration, and nutrient
content. Compost also helps maintain the soil's pH and improves soil fertility. Landfilling
organic wastes is inefficient because the lack of oxygen inside the landfill causes
decomposition to occur slowly. This produces methane gas and acidic leachate. Methane
is a colorless, odorless gas that can cause asphyxiation and explosions if not properly
managed. Acid leachate from the landfill can contaminate groundwater, which is the
source for springs, wells, and drinking water.(NSW, Environment & Heritage (2014)
WastesResource ConservationReduce, Reuse, Recycle, Composting.)
Moreover based on SWAPP( Solid Waste Management Association of the
Philippines) survey that in 2007, Philippines generated 254 million tons of garbage. The
average Filipino generates 4.6 pounds (lb.) of garbage every day. Most of this garbage
goes to a landfill. But opening and maintaining landfills is expensive. In order to reduce
the amount of garbage that we send to the landfill, recycle as much as possible and to
compost our organic waste. In 2007, of the 254 million tons of garbage Filipinos created,
22 million tons was composted. (SWAPP,(2008))
According to AIP (American Institute of Physics), through a
process known as thermionic conversion, heat energy can be
converted into electricity with very high efficiency. Because of its
promise, their researchers have been trying for more than half a
century to develop a practical thermionic generator. (S. Meir, C.
Stephanos, et.al(2013).New thermoelectronic generator: Heat energy
efficiently converted to electricity)

Thermocouples take advantage of an electrical effect that occurs

at junctions between different metals. For example, take two iron wires
and one copper wire. Twist one end of the copper wire and one end of
one of the iron wires together. Do the same with the other end of the
copper wire and the other iron wire. If you heat one of the twisted
junctions (perhaps with a match) and attach the two free ends to a volt
meter, you will be able to measure a voltage. Similarly, if you hook the
two iron wires to a battery, one junction will get hot and the other will
get cold. (How Stuff Works. (2004). Is it possible to generate electricity
directly from heat?)
According to Calderon, in the Philippines, there are 770 million people generating
an average of 0.3 to 0.7 kilograms of garbage daily and this amount is expected to
increase by 40% at the end of the decade.The Southern Tagalog Region where the
municipality of Dasmarias, Cavite belongs contributes to one of the highest bulks of the
countrys solid waste generated of 13 percent [3]. The inefficient waste management in
the country results to the piling up of trash and contributes to the deterioration of the
countrys environment and bringing about impacts affecting publics health. (Calderon,R.
(2007) The garbage dilemma in Dasma. )

Chapter III
Methodology

A. Method of Research Used

The study will use the experimental method of research. Calmorin, 2000 states
that experimental method involves a single treatment with two or more levels. In this
study, the amount of energy produced from the single compost pit will be determined.
B. Materials and Equipment
B.1. Materials
The materials used are 1 gallon of mixed pigs manure and leftovers, 1 gallon of
water, 500 ml vulca seal, and 1 liter black paint.
B.2. Equipment
The equipment to be used are: 3 meters of 5mm diameter hose, brass Y connector,
5 mm diameter hose clamps, shut off valve, 5 gallons of water container, brass elbow,
cutter, paint brush and flat screw driver.
C. General Procedure
For the experimental compost bin or inferior.
The cup of a 5 gallon water container of will be punctured to make a hole for the
elbow. A socket connector will be placed below the elbow. A 5mm diameter hose will be
inserted at the elbow and tighten it with a hose clamp. This 5mm diameter hose is
measured 3 meters long and divided into 3 measuring 1 meter each. The hose that was
connected to the elbow was inserted to the brass Y connector. With the brass Y connector
the hose formed Y shape, therefore the hoses was imparted. The other hose connected to
the tire and the other one will be cut again into half and a valve will be connected
between these two hoses. After assembling the water container will be painted black.

For the compost,

An equal amount of mixed pigs manure and leftover, and water measuring 1
gallon each will be mixed in a bucket. After mixing it will be placed inside the
experimental compost bin.
For the motor,

D. Research Design
*Drawing

E. Gantt Chart
Activities
Jun

July

Aug

Duration
Sept Oct Nov

Dec

Jan

Feb

Mar

1. Planning Stage
1.1 New materials
should be canvass for
buying
1.2 Submitted
write-ups must be
revise
2. Preparing Stage
2.1 All materials
are acquired
2.2 The product
should be finished
2.3 The final draft
of proposal must be
submitted
3. Data Processing
Stage
3.1 Data must be
collected
3.2 Computation of
results
3.3 Analysis of
data

3.4 Drafts of
Chapters 4 and 5
must be finished
4. Writing Stage
4.1 Final Chapter 1
(The Problem and its
Background)
4.2 Chapter 2
( Review of Related
Literature)
4.3 Chapter 3
( Methodology)
4.4 Chapter
4( Results and
Discussion)
4.5 Chapter 5
( Summary,
Conclusions and
Recommendations)
4.6 Bibliography
and Appendix
4.7 Final copy
5. Oral Examination

Stage
5.1Preparation for
Oral
Examination/Defens
e
5.2 Oral
examination and
revision of thesis

G. Evaluation Process
In watts produced, the watts will be measures by a voltmeter and the researchers
will get the mean score of the watts and in the duration of electricity, the researchers will
get the time of how long was the electricity produced. Also, they will get the mean score
for the duration of electricity.
H. Statistics to be used
The statistics to be used is measures of central tendency since the researchers are
comparing two or more groups of values; the measures of central tendency are values that
can represent a set of data or group of values. (Helen E. Caintic Ph.D. Juanita M. Cruz
Ph.D. Research Manual, pp. 56)