INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background
The conventional water borne sewerage system followed by a sewage treatment and disposal
plant, usually designated as off-site sewage disposal method is an expensive option and not
affordable by low income communities and by small communities in rural and suburban areas
which are not connected to a town or city sewerage system. This resulted in the development
of several alternative low cost on-site sewage disposal methods, with almost the same health
benefits. One of such on-site sewage disposal method which is widely used is the septic tank.
The invention of the septic tank is credited to a Frenchman by the name of John Louis
Mouras, who, during the 1860s constructed a masonry tank into which was directed various
ordinary cesspool. After a dozen years, the tank was opened and found, contrary to all
expectations, to be almost free from solids. The first known installation of a septic tank in the
United States was in 1876, although Louis Mouras of Vesoul, France, was given a patent in
1881 and credited with the invention. Baffles, which regulate the flow, were added in 1905 to
make the septic tank more efficient. The first baffles were made of oak boards. At the turn of
the century, there were some very large community septic tanks. In 1903, four community
tanks were constructed in Saratoga, New York, with a total capacity of one million gallons.
By 1920, septic tanks began to be a common feature. After World War II, septic tanks
became important to housing developments in unsewered areas. It is believed that the septic
tank was first introduced to England in 1895 and to South Africa (by the British Military) in
Septic tanks since invention have been used as a means of collecting wastes discharged from
houses but as development in science and technology increases and more research works are
1
being carried out, it was discovered that the septic tank system can also function as a bio-
digester since the condition in which the system is subjected to when in operation is
anaerobic. The first anaerobic digester was built by a leper colony in Bombay, India, in 1859.
In 1895, the technology was developed in Exeter, England, where a septic tank was used to
generate gas for the sewer gas destructor lamp, a type of gas lighting. Also in England, in
1904, the first dual-purpose tank for both sedimentation and sludge treatment was installed in
Hampton. In 1907, in Germany, a patent was issued for the Imhoff tank, an early form of
digester.
Research also shows further that the sludge and scum entering the septic tanks after
proportion. The mixture of gases produced is what is called biogas and due to the incessant
scarcity of petroleum and coal that threatens the supply of fuel throughout the world,
also problem of their combustion (which result in the emission of harmful gases into the
atmosphere) led to research in different corners to access the new sources of energy, like
combustion. Solar energy, wind energy, hydro sources of energy and biogas are all renewable
energy resources. But, biogas is distinct from other renewable energies because of its
Biogas does not have any geographical limitations or does it require advanced technology for
producing energy, also it is very simple to use and apply (Howard et al., 2005). The large
quantities of organic waste produced by modern society must be treated in some way before
being recycled back to nature. Some examples of such organic wastes are sludge from
municipal waste water treatment plants, kitchen refuse from households and restaurants, and
waste water from the food processing industry, agricultural waste etc. In a biogas process, the
2
and a nutrient rich residue which may be used as a fertilizer (Werner and Uta, 2002). The
main constituent of biogas, methane, is rich in energy, and has a long history of use by
mankind. Nowadays, production of heat and electricity is one of the major applications. As
vehicle fuel.
The aim of this study is to design a circular septic system for bio-methanation of household
i. ascertain the parameters required for circular septic system calculations and drafting;
parameters in (i) above that can be used in determining the capacity of circular
The recent rapid increase in human population has strained the earth's ability to provide food,
shelter, clothing and most especially energy. As the standard of living increases in the
developing countries, the average consumption and need for energy has increased drastically.
When viewed on a long-run period, it can be concluded that eventually there will not be
sufficient resource and energy to meet the ever increasing demands by the populace (Bhatia,
1990, Babatola, 2008) hence there is urgent need to seek for alternative sources of
sustainable energy. One major way of achieving this is to design an efficient circular septic
tank system to act as a bio-digester which will help in generating gases (mainly methane) that
can be used for various applications and not losing those gases to the atmosphere which our
present conventional circular septic system encourages. Also, the evacuation of wastes from
3
our immediate environment for the sole purpose of energy production will serve as a major
This study presents a modified design of circular septic systems that is efficient and yet with
The inadequate supply of electricity in developing countries of the world as long paralyzed
activities that could enhance national development. Household activities which uses
electricity gadgets like cooking, freezing and blending etc. which could have been powered
by electricity supply are being powered with generators at an expensive rate. To solve part of
this problem, the design of an efficient circular septic tank system which will act as a bio-
digester will be adopted. This will generate gases (mainly methane) that can be used for
This study was carried out to provide a dynamic computer based program for capacity septic
tank sizing. This covers the design calculations, detailed engineering drawings, computer
algorithm program and three dimensional rendering of the system for illustration purposes.
Field construction steps and processes were not considered in this study but basic decisions
4
CHAPTER TWO
LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1 Preamble
In developed countries where there are central sewage systems, most populated areas are
served by the municipal sewage disposal systems, and all a person intending to build a house
or involved in building a house has to do is to tap into the pipeline. But in rural and semi-
rural areas, municipal sewage service may not be available just like in developing countries;
house builders must install what is called on-site sanitation system called a septic tank
sanitation system or simply a septic system (Max and Charlotte, 1996). Septic system
provides an environment with the first stage of treatment in on-site sanitation and
decentralized wastewater systems by promoting physical settling, flotation, and the anaerobic
digestion of sewage. Additionally, the system allows for storage of both digested and
Several definitions of septic tank have been given by different organizations and researchers.
The United State of America Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) defined a septic tank
as any watertight, covered receptacle that is designed and constructed to receive the discharge
of sewage from a building sewer or preceding tank, stores liquids for a detention period that
provides separation of solids from liquid and digestion of organic matter, and allows the
A fact sheet on septic tanks presented by WHO (2003) defined septic tanks as any watertight
chambers sited below ground level which receive excreta and flush water from flush toilets
and other domestic sullage (collectively known as wastewater). The solids settle out and
break down in the tank. The liquid remains in the tank for a short time before overflowing
into a sealed soak away or drain field where it infiltrates into the ground.
5
According to Modi (2001) septic tank is defined as a combined sedimentation and digestion
tank where sewage is held for one day to two days. During this period, the suspended solids
settle down to the bottom. This is accompanied by anaerobic digestion of settled solids
organic matter and release of gases like carbon dioxide, methane and hydrogen sulphide. The
Septic tank produces foul gases such as hydrogen sulphide, methane and carbon dioxide are
evolved during the digestion process, and the tank is completely covered at the top with a
provision of a high vertical vent shaft for the escape of these gases. The effluent from the
septic tank although clarified to a large extent, is still sufficiently foul in nature, containing
considerable amount of dissolved and putrescible organic solids and pathogens. Therefore the
septic tank effluent disposal needs careful consideration. Because of the unsatisfactory
quality of the effluent and also of the difficulty in providing a proper effluent disposal
system, septic tanks are recommended only for individuals homes and small communities
and institutions whose contributory population does not exceed 300. For larger communities,
septic tanks may be adopted with appropriate effluent treatment and disposal facilities.
The three system of distribution treatment types in septic tank system are standard gravity,
6
2.3.1.1 Standard Gravity
This system works by letting gravity drain the effluent from the septic tank into a series of
underground trenches. The drainfield area must be below the elevation of the septic tank. If
the drainfield area is not below the elevation of the septic tank, a pump is necessary and it is
called a pump to standard gravity system. This method requires 75mm of good soil under
This system is usually required when there is less than optimal soil depth available for
drained soil is required under the trenches. The tank of the drainfield size is normally the
same as a standard gravity system, but the method by which the effluent is distributed to the
soil is different. A pump (or sometimes a siphon) is used to pressurize the effluent into a
small underground pvc pipe which transports it to the drainfield (Plate 2.2). The drainfield
itself consists of pipe and rock, graveless chambers or drip irrigation tubing. Unike a standard
gravity system, a pressure distribution system wets the entire length of the trench each time
7
the pump turns on. This allows the effluent to be spread over a larger area and receive better
Plate 2.2: A Typical Septic Tank and Pump Chamber Found on a Pressure
Distribution System.
(Source: Professional Septic Tank Consultant, 2005)
This system comes in various forms and varieties. Some are built in factories and some on
site. These system is requires when shallow soils exist on the site (300-750 mm). The basic
function of this system is to clean water prior to the final disposal into the ground.
The three most common septic tank systems based on shape are rectangular, square and
circular.
This is the most constructed form of septic tank around the world. It is adopted because of its
simple design and construction techniques. It does not require much skilled supervision
during construction and the periodical cleaning and maintenance can be easily carried out. It
can also accommodate the soak-away pits where the effluent flows into before moving into
8
the ground through the soil pores leaving behind the sludge and the scum. A rectangular
septic tank can have more than a single compartment; it can be a double compartment septic
tank or a triple compartment septic tank. A typical double compartment rectangular septic
tank is shown in Plate 2.3. It is mostly installed in households of few users, residential
Plate 2.3: A Double Compartment Rectangular Septic Tank without Cover Spot
This type of septic tank is similar to the rectangular septic tank in design, construction and
operation, only that it has different dimensions. It is not commonly adopted in practice
especially here in Nigeria. It is only adopted in special cases where a unique dimension of
septic tank is needed for treatment purposes and there is need to connect each septic tank
This type of septic tank is not commonly constructed as that of the rectangular type. It is
adopted in places where the availability of land is limited and when high technicality is
required in the design and construction. It requires skilled supervision during construction
and the periodical cleaning and maintenance is not easily carried out as the cover has to be
9
broken for the desludging to take place. The most common material used in its construction is
precast concrete. Plate 2.4 shows an example of a newly constructed circular septic tank.
Plate 2.4: A Newly Constructed Circular Septic Tank Around FUTA Northgate Area
For the septic tank to function as a bio-digester and an effluent suspended remover, it should
be of sufficient capacity with proper inlet and outlet arrangements. It should be designed in
such a way that the sludge can settle at the bottom and the scum accumulates at the surface,
while enough space is left in between, for the sewage to flow through without dislocating
either the scum or the settled sludge. As such a properly designed septic tank system should
(c) Space for storage of digested sludge and scum accumulating in between successive
In order to provide for the above indicated requirements the following considerations are
10
2.4.1 Sewage Flow
The maximum sewage flow into a septic tank is based on the number of plumbing fixtures
discharging simultaneously (Modi, 2011). For this purpose various sanitation facilities are
equated in terms of fixture units. A fixture unit is a quantity in terms of which the load
producing effect of different plumbing fixtures on the plumbing system are expressed on
some arbitrarily chosen scale. In the design of septic tank a fixture unit is taken as 9 litres per
minutes. Table 2.1 gives the equivalent fixture units of different sanitation facilities.
2. Bath/Kitchen
6. Slop sink 1
7. Laboratory sink 2
8. Combination fixture 1
9. Shower bath 1
The estimated number of fixture units and the number of fixture units that contributed to the
peak discharge in small installations serving up to 20 persons, for residential housing colonies
11
up to 300 persons and for hostels and boarding schools are given in Tables 2.2, 2.3 and 2.4
respectively.
Table 2.2: Estimated Peak Discharge for Small Septic Tanks up to 20 Users
Number of Users Number of fixture Probable number of Probable peak
units fixture units discharge
discharging (lpm)
simultaneously
5 1 1 9
10 2 2 18
15 3 2 18
20 4 3 27
The number of fixture units is based on the assumption that each house consisting of 5
persons may have one WC which will discharge into the septic tank and those probable
numbers of fixture units are based on 70 percent fixture units discharging simultaneously.
100 20 40 216
150 30 60 324
200 40 80 432
Table 2.3 values are based on the assumption that each household consisting of 5 persons
may have 1 WC, 1 bath and 1 wash basin/kitchen sink and also probable peak discharge is
12
Table 2.4: Estimated Peak Discharge for Hostels and Boarding Schools
Number of WC Bath Wash Number of Probable
Users basin/Kitchen fixture peak
sink units discharge
(lpm)
50 6 6 6 12 65
100 12 12 12 24 130
150 19 19 19 38 205
200 25 25 25 50 270
300 37 37 37 74 400
Table 2.4 values are based on the assumption that for 8 persons 1 WC, 1 bath and 1 wash
basin/kitchen sink may be considered and also the probable peak discharge is based on 60
suspended solids, the minimum detention period for the sewage in a septic tank should be 24
hours. However, considering the volume required for the sludge and scum accumulation, a
i. Rational method
In the rational method, the capacity of the septic tank is determined on the basis of space
required for sedimentation, sludge digestion and storage of digested sludge. For
sedimentation, (especially in India) the surface area of the tank required will be 0.92 m2 for
13
every 10 litres per minute of peak flow rate. A minimum depth of sedimentation should be
250 to 300 mm. For sludge digestion, the suspended solids entering into the tank may be
taken as 70 gm per day per capita. The capacity required for sludge digestion is 0.033 m3 per
capita at 25C. For the volume of the digested sludge, it is normally taken as 0.00021 m3 per
The total capacity of the tank will be equal to the sum of the above three mentioned
requirements plus a freeboard of not less than 300 mm to provide additional capacity required
In the detention period method, average daily per capita rate of flow of sewage is estimated
by first determining the daily per capita water consumption. The average daily per capita rate
of flow of sewage is multiplied by the number of users and the detention period in days
which gives the capacity of the tank required to store the sewage produced during the
detention period. In addition to this, space is also required for the sludge accumulating in the
tank during the period between successive cleanings. The space for the accumulating sludge
is usually kept at the rate of 15 to 45 litres per capita per year (with average value of 30 litres
per capita per year). The total capacity of the tank will be equal to the sum of the above
indicated two requirements plus a freeboard of not less than 300 mm to provide additional
capacity required for the storage of scum at the top. As a thumb rule 1/6 to 1/5 m 3 volume
Septic tanks are conventionally rectangular in shape with minimum width of 0.75 m and
length 2 to 4 times the width. The liquid depth is 1 to 2.5 m with a minimum value of 1m.
The recommended sizes of septic tanks for individual households (up to 20 users), for
14
housing colonies (up to 300 users) and for hostels and boarding schools are given in Tables
Values of Table 2.5 are given on the basis that the capacities are recommended on the
assumption that discharge from only Water Closet (WC) will be treated in the septic tank and
Values of Table 2.6 are given on the basis that a provision of 300 mm should be made for
freeboard and for population over 100; the tank may be divided into independent parallel
15
Values of Table 2.7 are given on the basis that a provision of 300 mm should be made for
freeboard and for population over 100; the tank may be divided into independent parallel
Table 2.7: Recommended Sizes of Septic Tanks for Hostels and Boarding schools
Number of Length Width Liquid depth (m)
users (m) (m) Clearing interval of
1 year 2 years
The sizes of the septic tanks given in Tables 2.5, 2.6, and 2.7 are based on the assumption of
peak discharges indicated in Table 2.2, 2.3 and 2.4 and while choosing the size of septic tank
Sludge may be withdrawn from a septic tank either half yearly or yearly. For small domestic
tanks, for economic reasons, de-sludging may be done once in 3 years provided the tank is
not overloaded due to use by more than the number for which it is designed. Frequent de-
sludging inhibits the anaerobic action in the tank. Normally the tanks are cleaned when the
sum of the depth of accumulated scum and sludge is observed to exceed half the depth of the
tank. A portion of the sludge at least 25 mm in depth should be left behind in the tank bottom
which acts as the seeding material for the fresh sludge. The sludge from septic tanks is black
in colour, and unless well digested by long storage, it is offensive because of the hydrogen
sulphide and other gases it gives off. The digested sludge is withdrawn through a sludge pipe
16
of at least 150 mm diameter under a hydrostatic pressure of at least 450 mm. The sludge pipe
which is installed at the bottom of the tank is provided with a delivery valve to draw the
sludge as at when required and it delivers the sludge to a sump for subsequent disposal on
land or sent for further treatment. The sludge can be dried on porous beds if spread out in thin
layers. Spreading of sludge on the ground in the vicinity should not be allowed. Portable
pumps may also be used for de-sludging in which case there will be no need for sludge pipe
possible particularly in case of densely populated large cities, mechanical vacuum tankers
For smaller capacities (usually up to 2000 litres) a septic tank with a single compartment may
be constructed, but for larger capacities, a two-compartment tank constructed with the
partition wall at a distance of about two-thirds the length from the inlet gives a better
performance than a single compartment tank. The two compartments are interconnected
above the sludge storage level by means of pipes or square openings of diameter or side
length respectively of at least 75 mm. Typical sectional sketches of single compartment and
two compartment septic tanks are shown in Figures 1 and 2. Septic tanks may be constructed
either in brick work or stone masonry or cement concrete cast in situ or precast. The floor of
the tank is of cement concrete and it is provided with a minimum slope of 1 in 10 towards the
sludge outlet to facilitate de-sludging. Both the floor and the side walls are plastered to render
the surface smooth and to make them water tight. Septic tanks are provided with watertight
covers of adequate strength. Access manholes of adequate size are provided for the purposes
of inspection and de-sludging of tanks. Every septic tank is provided with a ventilation pipe
of height extending at least 2000 mm above the top of the highest building and the top of the
17
The inlet and outlet are located at the two opposite ends of the tank and at different levels to
avoid short circuiting. This is further ensured by using pipe tees with submerged ends as inlet
and outlet (Figure 2.1) or by providing baffles in front of the inlet and before the outlet
(Figure 2.2). The baffles should dip 250 to 300 mm into and project 150 mm above the liquid.
The invert of the outlet pipe should be placed at a level 50 to 70 mm below the invert of inlet
pipe.
Figure 2.1: Typical Plan and Sectional View of a Single Compartment Septic Tank
(Source: Indian Standard Code of Practice, 2003)
18
Figure 2.2: Sectional View of a Two Compartment Septic Tank System
(Source: Indian Standard Code of Practice, 2003)
2.5 Biogas
(methane producing bacteria) are last link in a chain of microorganisms which degrade
organic material and returns product of decomposition to the environment in a form that is
not harmful to the environment (Okure, 2005). Biogas consists of various constituents
According to Babatola (2008), the composition of biogas varies depending on the origin of
the anaerobic digestion process. The major constituents of biogas are methane (CH4) and
carbon dioxide (CO2), found in different proportions depending on input to the system and
19
2.5.1 Factors Affecting Yield and Production of Biogas
There are several factors that can affect the production of biogas from any form of organic
substances and many of these factors affecting the fermentation process are under anaerobic
condition. They are retention time, carbon to nitrogen ratio (C:N), temperature, acidity and
alkalinity (pH+ Value) of substrate, total solid content, mixing, organic loading rate / volatile
Retention time is the time needed to achieve the complete degradation of the organic
matter. The retention time varies with process parameters, such as process temperature
and waste composition. The retention time for waste treated in a mesophilic digester
The relationship between the amount of carbon and nitrogen present in organic materials
methanogens and result s in a lower gas production. On the other hand, a lower C: N
ratio causes ammonia accumulation and pH values exceeding 8.5, which is toxic to
by mixing waste of low and high C: N ratio, such as organic solid waste mixed with
2.5.1.3 Temperature
The process of biogas production takes place in anaerobic conditions and in different
temperature diapasons. When the temperature of the digester fluctuates, a change in methane
20
because the anaerobic bacteria thrive in higher temperatures but for a more temperate climate,
the digester may need to be heated during colder season. If temperatures within the tank reach
temperatures below 20C, the biogas production slows down. Under freezing conditions, you
will not have digestion. The optimum temperature, i.e. the temperature at which the organism
Microorganisms can be divided into different groups depending on the temperature at which
they best thrive and grow namely psychrophilic, mesophilic and thermophilic.
Biogas production in a thermophilic region is much higher than for the mesophilic and
psychrophilic regions.
For each range of digestion temperature there are certain groups of microorganisms present
that can flourish in these temperature ranges. In the temperature ranges between the three
established temperature ranges the conditions for each of the microorganisms group are less
favorable. In these ranges anaerobic digestion can operate, however much less efficient. For
Common to all growth intervals is that the temperature that allows the highest rate is close to
the so-called maximum temperature, which results in cell death. If the temperature increases
above this maximum temperature, the cell's proteins and other components are quickly
inactivated, causing the organism to die. The maximum temperature varies depending on
21
Figure 2.3: Growth of Microorganisms at Different Temperatures
(Source: Madigan and Martinko, 2006)
A curve rates of gas production as a function of temperature was developed by Maly and
Fadrus in 1991 as seen in Figure 2.4. The steepness of the curves in the figure increases with
temperature due to increased microbial activity. The time required for digestion, based on the
22
Figure 2.4: Curve Rates of Gas production as a Function of Temperature.
(Source: Maly and Fadrus, 1991)
Figure 2.5 also shows the studies by Maly and Fadrus (1991) showing the rate differences
Figure 2.5: Rate Differences for Reduction of Organic Matter for Temperatures Ranges
(Source: Maly and Fadrus, 1991)
23
2.5.1.4 Acidity and Alkalinity (pH Value) of Substrate
The optimal pH range for digestion is between 6.8 and 7.4. An increase in acidity can occur
when acetogenic bacteria grow rapidly at times of high organic matter loading, causing
elevated levels of volatile fatty acids. This situation can be controlled by simply buffering the
system with an alkali such as lime during start-up or high loading periods.
In anaerobic digestion the pH is most affecting the methanogenic stage of the process. pH
optimum for the methanogenic microorganisms is between 6.5 and 7.5. If the pH decreases
below 6.5, more acids are produced and that leads to imminent process failure. In real
digester systems with suspended biomass and substrate containing suspended solids, normal
pH of operation is between 7.3 and 7.5. When pH decreases to 6.9 already serious actions to
The variability of the concentration of volatile organic acids has a significant influence on the
pH of the fermenting media as shown in Figure 2.6. The lowest pH values occur when the
24
2.5.1.5 Total Solid Content
There are three different ranges of total solid content namely low solid system and it
contain less than 10% of the total solid, medium solid systems which contain 15-20% of
the total solids content and high solid systems which contain 22-40% of the total solid
content. When increasing the total solid content, the volume of the digester decreases,
2.5.1.6 Mixing
Mixing, within the digester, improves the contact between the micro-organisms and
substrate and improves the bacteria populations ability to obtain nutrients. Mixing also
prevents the formation of scum and the development of temperature gradients within the
digester. However excessive mixing can disrupt the micro-organisms and therefore slow
Organic loading rate is a measure of the biological conversion capacity of the anaerobic
digestion system. Feeding the system above its sustainable organic loading rate, results
in low biogas yield due to accumulation of inhibiting substances in the digester slurry
(i.e. fatty acids). Under such circumstances, the feeding rate of the system must be
systems. Many plants have reported system failure due to overloading. Organic loading
rate is expressed in kg of Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) or Volatile Solids (VS) per
cubic meter of reactor. It is linked with retention time for any particular feedstock and
Volatile Solids (VS) represents the organic matter in a sample which is measured as
solid content minus ash content, as obtained by complete combustion of the feed wastes.
25
Volatile solids comprise the biodegradable volatile solid fraction and the refractory
volatile solid. High volatile solid content with low refractory volatile solid is more
Substances that may be toxic or inhibitory to the anaerobic process besides volatile acids are
ammonia, oxygen, antibiotics and cations. In the anaerobic system, ammonia exists in
equilibrium, placing more free ammonia in solution which is toxic to the methane bacteria.
Free ammonia in concentrations greater than 150mg/litre causes anaerobic unit to stop
functioning. The potential toxicity due to ammonia can be corrected by controlling the C/N
The addition of oxygen is inhibitory to the anaerobic process and should be avoided. Since
the methane are obligates anaerobes, they require a highly reducing environment, which even
small amount of oxygen can destroy. Not only oxygen, but all highly oxidized materials, such
as nitrites and nitrates, can inhibit the anaerobic process. Antibiotics, found in the feed of
animals, may inhibit the growth of bacteria during digestion. Diluting the waste with water or
Cations such as sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium may also be toxic to bacteria if
present in high concentration. These cations are generally found in chemical fertilizers and if
2.5.1.9 Nutrients
The nutrients required for anaerobic digestion are carbon, nitrogen, hydrogen, and
phosphorus. The most important nutrients among this group are carbon and nitrogen. For best
results, the carbon to nitrogen ratio of the substrate should always be within the ranges of
30:1 to 50:1. If the ratio is too high, the process is limited by nitrogen availability; if it is too
26
low, ammonia may exist in quantities large enough to inhibit bacterial activity. Normally this
that takes place in the absence of air (oxygen). It involves biochemical decomposition of
complex organic material by various biochemical processes with release of energy rich
that produces biogas, consisting primarily of methane (CH4) and carbon dioxide (CO2) in the
absence of oxygen.
sewage sludge
organic farm wastes (manure/slurry from cattle, pig and poultry, Harvest remains and
green/botanical wastes
In most cases biomass is made up of large organic compounds. In order for the
microorganisms in anaerobic digesters to access the chemical energy potential of the organic
material, the organic matter macromolecular chains must first be broken down into their
smaller constituent parts. These constituent parts or monomers such as sugars are readily
There are three key biological and chemical stages of anaerobic digestion namely:
1. Hydrolysis
27
2. Acidogenesis
3. Methanogenesis.
2.5.3.1 Hydrolysis
This first process of digestion is where complex organic compounds are broken into simple
soluble sugars, amino acids, fatty acids, and peptides by hydrolytic bacteria. Therefore
hydrolysis of high molecular weight molecules is the necessary first step in anaerobic
physical (using thermal energy and pressure) in nature. Acetates and hydrogen produced in
the first stages can be used directly by methanogens. Other molecules such as Volatile Fatty
Acids (VFAs) with a chain length that is greater than acetate must first be catabolised into
2.5.3.2 Acidogenesis
It occurs where the compounds are further broken down into simple molecules by acid-
forming bacteria. During this stage, by-products such as ammonia, carbon dioxide and
hydrogen sulphide are produced. The simple molecules from acidogenesis are broken down
further producing acids such as acetic acid, butyric acid, propanoic acid and ethanol.
2.5.3.3 Methanogenesis
Here, methanogenic bacteria convert the acids into methane (CH4) gas and carbon dioxide
CO2. It is these components that makes up the majority of the biogas released from the
system. Methanogenesis is beside other factors sensitive to both high and low pH+ values and
Heavy metals can generally be precipitated out with sulphides in the sludge but high
concentrations of soluble metals such as copper can be toxic to the bacteria in the digester.
28
Copper is a common metal present in digester wastes from farms using copper sulphate anti-
fungal foot baths. Biogas generated from anaerobic digestion has numerous applications. The
primary benefits of anaerobic digestion are odour control, nutrient recycling and waste
production, particularly the potential for energy production. Block scheme of anaerobic
digestion (Figure 2.7) shows the technological process of typical anaerobic digestion process.
The transformation of biomass occurs in stages. Biogas fuel can be transformed via bio-
methanation into bio-fuels. The three major compositions of biomass are explained as
follows.
Biogas is generated when bacteria degrade biological material in the absence of oxygen, in a
(about 65%), carbon dioxide (CO2), and impurities of hydrogen sulfide (H2S), CO2 and water
(Table 2.8). Technology is commercially available to remove H2S, CO2 and water
29
contaminants present in the biogas and landfill gas through processing to produce high-purity
natural gas suitable for vehicles. When biogas is produced from biological material it is
called bio-methane. After removal of contaminants, bio-methane is the same as natural gas,
and can be used as a transport fuel in the form of Liquid Natural Gas (LNG) or Compressed
Natural Gas (CNG). Anaerobic Digestion (AD) technology is well established; hence biogas
is often categorized as a 'first generation' bio-fuel. Biogas is widely used as a transport fuel in
many European countries, notably Italy, which boasts of 650,000 gas powered vehicles.
Sweden is a world leader in upgrading and use of bio-methane for transport, and has many
'biogas vehicles', including private cars, buses, and even a biogas train and a biogas powered
touring car team (EBA, 2015). Anaerobic digestion is the most commonly employed and
technologically mature method; requiring only a low-oxygen environment for the naturally
Methane 50 80%
Nitrogen 0 10%
Hydrogen 0 1%
Hydrogen sulphide 0 3%
Oxygen 0 2%
Biogas is the gaseous emissions from anaerobic degradation of organic matter (from plants or
animals) by a consortium of bacteria. Methane gas, the primary component of natural gas
(98%), makes up 55-90% by volume of biogas, depending on the source of organic matter
and conditions of degradation. Biogas is produced in all natural environments that have low
30
levels of oxygen (O2) and have degradable organic matter present. These natural sources of
biogas include: aquatic sediments, wet soils, buried organic matter, animal and insect
digestive tracts, and in the core of some trees. Anthropogenic activities create additional
sources including landfills, waste lagoons, and waste storage structures. Atmospheric
emissions of biogas from natural and man-made sources contribute to climate change due to
methanes potent greenhouse gas properties. Biogas technology permits the recovery of
biogas from anaerobic digestion of organic matter using sealed vessels, and makes the biogas
available for use as fuel for direct heating, electrical generation or mechanical power and
other uses.
Biogas is often made from wastes but can be made from biomass energy feedstocks as well.
It is well known that biogas, accounts for more than 60 percent of final energy used in Africa,
34 percent in Asia and 25 percent in Latin America (Oyeleke, 2007). One main advantage of
Biogas production by anaerobic digestion is popular for treating biodegradable waste because
valuable fuel can be produced while destroying disease-causing pathogens and reducing the
volume of disposed waste products. Biogas burns more cleanly than coal, and emits less
carbon dioxide per unit of energy. The carbon in biogas was recently extracted from the
atmosphere by photosynthetic plants. Releasing it back into the atmosphere adds less total
atmospheric carbon than burning fossil fuels. Thus, biogas production reduces waste and
produces energy. In addition, the residues from the digestion process can be used as high
quality fertilizer. This closes the nutrient cycle. Digestion effectively eliminates
materials, suitable feedstock also includes dedicated energy crops. The main disadvantage of
energy crops when compared to waste materials is their need for additional agricultural land.
Nevertheless, energy crops for biogas production have several advantages which make them
31
very promising for the future. One main advantage is the production of considerably high
yields of energy crops even when they are cultivated extensively. Chemical fertilizers and
pesticides are not required or only in small amounts. Damaged and uneatable harvests
resulting from unfavorable growing and weather conditions, as well as from pest
contaminations are also suitable for biogas production. In addition, cultivations do not have
to become fully ripe, since the whole plant can be used for biogas production. The production
of biogas from energy crops as well as from bio-waste or municipal waste is very popular in
Austria, Denmark, Germany and Italy. Biogas containing methane is a valuable product of
anaerobic digestion which can be utilized in the production of renewable energy. Biogas can
be used for generating electricity and heat. It can also be burned directly for cooking, heating,
lighting and process heat. Furthermore, even pilot fuel cells installations are operated with by
biogas. In addition, biogas can be cleaned and upgraded to natural gas quality. The final
product is bio-methane, which has methane content between 95 and 100%. This upgraded
bio-methane is suitable for all natural gas applications. For instance, it can be fed into the
natural gas grid or used for transport in vehicles. One of the major processes of conversion of
2.6.2 Bio-methanation
involved namely fermenting bacteria, organic acid oxidizing bacteria, and methanogenic
methane and carbon dioxide. Energy has a major economical and political role as an
a potential alternative as it not only provides renewable source of energy but also utilizes
32
activities in the country. BT is the anaerobic digestion of biodegradable organic waste in an
enclosed space under controlled conditions of temperature, moisture, pH, etc. It is a human
engineered decomposing system wherein depending on the waste characteristics; the waste
methane and carbon dioxide. Microbes are nature's ultimate garbage disposal, devouring the
dead, decomposing an inert material that litters Earth's surface. (Patrick, 2015)
Biogas is only one of many types of bio-fuels which include solid, liquid or gaseous fuels
from biomass. Bio-fuels include fuels derived from biomass conversion, as well as solid
biomass, liquid fuels and various biogases (Demirbas, 2009). Any combustible fuel derived
from recent (non-fossil) living matter (biomass) may be considered a bio-fuel, including
ethanol derived from plant products, biodiesel from plant or animal oils as well as biogas
from biomass. All bio-fuels are produced from sources which are renewable and are included
as a subset of renewable energy sources that also include energy produced from solar, hydro,
tidal, wind, and geothermal sources. Biogas, like natural gas, has a low volumetric energy
density compared to the liquid bio-fuels, ethanol and biodiesel. However, biogas may be
purified to a natural gas equivalent fuel for pipeline injection and further compressed for use
as a transportation fuel. Methane, the principal component in biogas, has four times the
volumetric energy density of hydrogen (H2) and is suitable for use in many types of fuel cell
generators. Fuel yields depend on photosynthetic efficiency (less than 3% of solar energy is
captured in even high yield crops), the efficiency of the conversion process, and the energy
used in the production and conversion process (a significant cost for ethanol production).
Bio-fuels offer the advantage of coming from large, mainly under-utilized biomass resources
that are sustainable and renewable in a closed carbon cycle that reduces environmental input.
Bio-fuels apply to solid, liquid or gaseous fuel produced from biological materials (biomass)
33
which can be used for the generation of power, heat or fuel for motive power (Agba et al.,
2010). It well known that Nigeria is the largest producer of cassava in the world and has the
largest capacity for oil palm plantation which serves as a great source for biodiesel (Abiodun,
2007). Table 2.9 shows the estimated biomass quantities in Nigeria. This stands the country
in a good stead in turning these huge biomasses into valuable products that can enhance
Organic substances exist in wide variety from living beings to dead organisms. Organic
matters are composed of Carbon (C), combined with elements such as Hydrogen (H), Oxygen
(O), Nitrogen (N), and Sulphur (S) to form variety of organic compounds such as
carbohydrates, proteins & lipids. In nature, microorganisms, through digestion process breaks
the complex carbon into smaller substances. Breaking down of organic compound take place
in only degradable matters and it is this degradable compound that can produce gas in
34
The digestion process occurring in the presence of oxygen is called Aerobic digestion and
produces mixtures of gases having carbon dioxide (CO2), one of the main green houses
The digestion process occurring without (i.e. in the absence of) oxygen is called Anaerobic
digestion which generates mixtures of gases. The gas produced which is mainly methane
produces 5200-5800 KJ/m3 which when burned at normal room temperature and presents a
Pretreatment
Anaerobic digestion
Biogas recovery
The biogas production from organic waste represents one of the potential green energy or
gases like methane. Energy recovery from waste represents an important way to reduce the
amount of electrical energy that is produced from fossil fuels. This would therefore reduce
and perhaps replace fossil fuel-derived energy and reduce environmental impacts including
global warming and acid rain. Biogas can be produced through anaerobic digestion of
household wastes and organic fraction of municipal solid waste which can therefore be used
for the production of electricity (Bove and Lunghi, 2006). There are several technologies
available in the market for the conversion of biogas into power directly. Gas engine generator
set is one of the mostly used technologies for burning the biogas for power generation.
35
2.9 Biomass for Electric Power
There are several technological ways to transform the energy content of biomass into
forestry sector e.g. land preparation, cultivation, harvesting or the collection of the
ii. Biomass conditioning i.e. the processing of the resources to make them suitable
for use by energy conversion technologies. It may include processes like size
iii. Energy conversion of the biomasss energy content into electric power e.g.
36
CHAPTER THREE
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3.1 Materials
The materials used for this research work are majorly software programs. Various
engineering design applications and software programs can be used to carry out this work but
the materials used were limited to three software programs to give a better outcome and these
software packages are AutoCAD software, Autodesk Inventor 3D CAD software and
Microsoft Excel Spreadsheet software. Each of these materials is briefly explained below.
application for two dimensional and three dimensional computer-aided design (CAD) and
drafting available since 1982 as a desktop application and since 2010 as a mobile, web and
cloud based app marketed as AutoCAD 360. AutoCAD is used across a wide range of
professionals.
For this study, AutoCAD software was used to draft the two dimensional engineering
drawing of the septic system. The software interface is shown in Figure 3.1.
37
Figure 3.1: AutoCAD Software Interface
(Source: Autodesk Certification Preparation, 2009)
parametric modeler based not on the familiar AutoCAD programming architecture but
instead on a separate foundation that would provide the room needed to grow into the fully
featured modeler it now is, a decade later. Inventor software continues the development of
Inventor with assembly layout, plastic parts, and other productivity tools. The maturity of the
Inventor tools coincides with the advancement of the CAD markets adoption of three
understand that two dimensional CAD will likely never completely disappear from the
For this study, Autodesk Inventor 3D CAD was used to model the three dimensional view of
the septic system for better appreciation of the 2D drawing. The software interface is shown
in Figure 3.2.
38
Figure 3.2: Autodesk Inventor 3D CAD Interface
(Source: Curtis and Loren, 2009)
Microsoft Excel software has the basic features of all spreadsheets, using a grid
of cells arranged in numbered rows and letter-named columns to organize data manipulations
engineering and financial needs. In addition, it can display data as line graphs, histograms
and charts, and with a very limited three-dimensional graphical display. It allows sectioning
of data to view its dependencies on various factors for different perspectives (using pivot
tables and the scenario manager). It has a programming aspect, Visual Basic for Applications,
allowing the user to employ a wide variety of numerical methods, for example, for solving
differential equations of mathematical physics, and then reporting the results back to the
spreadsheet.
39
For this study, Microsoft excel spreadsheet was used to prepare a flexible computer software
program for proper sizing of circular septic systems for electricity generation. The software
Several septic systems types and shapes have existed and still exist around the world. The
design of circular septic tank systems which is different from the existing circular septic tank
system was proposed in this work for energy production. However, the design of the existing
circular septic system was reviewed and further work was done to improve on its function
and structure in order to get the desired design of septic system which can be used for
generating electricity.
40
3.3 Existing System
The septic system is the most widely used onsite sanitation system in developing countries
like Nigeria. Currently, almost all new houses being constructed in urban centres and rural
areas in Nigeria (except for some few exceptions like Abuja, some areas of Lagos and Kano)
use septic system as a means of collecting wastes discharged from the house. The design and
construction of this system over the years have been widely done using two geometrical
shapes namely the rectangular shape and the circular shape. One of the major reasons why
these two shapes have been generally adopted is because of their ease of design and
construction. Only few designs and construction have been carried out on square shapes and
Two types of processes occur in the conventional septic system namely physical and
biological processes. The schematic flow diagram of the conventional system is shown in
Figure 3.4. The solid and liquid from the toilet flush cistern is conveyed into the septic
system via a sewer, after which separation of the solids from the liquid take place as heavier
solid called the sludge settles and fats, greases and other light materials float as scum on the
surface while the liquid layer is formed in between the sludge and the scum layers called the
effluent. Only one receptacle is provided for this system hereby making it to have only inlet
pipes that is no outlet channel. This usually results in frequent disturbance and turbulence in
41
Figure 3.4: Flow Diagram for the Existing Design
(Source: Author, 2016)
The engineering drawing of a typical circular septic system currently constructed in Nigeria
and some other part of developing countries is shown in Figure 3.5 and 3.6. This system has
some limitations in its design as it only considered the collection of the wastes from the
house. It does not give any consideration on how the wastewater flowing with the solid
matters will be discharged. The conventional engineering drawing shows the plan and section
of the septic system (that is, the septic tank and the soakaway combined) in a single unit
having just the de-sludging hole. This design lacks inspection hole where maintenance work
can be carried out in case there is any technical fault in the system neither does it have a gas
vent on it. In most of the one constructed in houses, the pipe vent via which the gases is
passed out is connected to a small chamber before passing it to the septic system and these
gases being released escape to the atmosphere which in turn causes air pollution. This system
42
Figure 3.5: Plan of a Typical Circular Septic Tank System
(Source: Author, 2016)
43
3.4 The Modified Septic System
The modified septic tank shape considered in this design is a circular septic system. This
shape was selected to further improve on the existing circular septic system and to maximize
Two types of processes occurred in this modified septic system just like the existing system
since both are operated under anaerobic condition. The two processes are physical and
biological processes. The schematic flow diagram of the proposed system is shown in Figure
3.7. The solid and liquid from the toilet flush cistern are conveyed together into the septic
system via a sewer just like the existing (conventional) system. After, the separation of the
solids from the liquid take place as heavier solid called the sludge settles and fats, greases
and other light materials float as scum on the surface. The liquid layer is formed in between
the sludge and the scum layers called the effluent. The effluent is retained for a minimum of
24 hours after which it is conveyed into the soak away tank via the outlet pipe. A screen is
introduced before the outlet pipe to prevent the scum from being transported with the effluent
into the soak away pit. Effluent in the soak away is discharged into the soil through the
perforated rings thus preventing turbulence in the system. The breakdown of the solid matters
by bacterial action will yield mixture of gases. This mixture of gases emitted from both the
septic unit and the soak away pit are then collected for further use.
44
Figure 3.7: Flow Diagram for the Modified Design
(Source: Author, 2016)
In this design, some parameters are considered that are paramount and can affect the outcome
and subsequently the proper construction and performance of the septic system. They are as
follows:
a) Population (P)
This is the number of users contributing to the usage of the septic tank.
This is the total amount of water to be used per person per day and it depends on the
This is the minimum time for the effluent to be retained in the septic tank before being
This is the number of year(s) between each removal of the sludge and scum from the
septic system. It is usually taken as 1 year for developed countries, 3 years for
45
e) Rate of Sludge Accumulation (S)
This is the quantity of sludge that accumulates after decomposition has occurred over
a given period of time. This depends on some factors such as diet condition of each
Sizing factor is a factor relating to the ambient temperature. The digestion process
occurs less readily at lower temperatures. At temperature more than 20C throughout
the year, the sizing factor ranges from 1.0 1.3 depending on the period of de-
sludging. At temperature less than 20C throughout the year, the sizing factor ranges
The calculation steps adopted for this proposed circular septic system design are in agreement
with the British standard code of practice and Indian standard code of practice for design and
The formula used in the British Standard Code of Practice gives the capacity (C) in litres, as
The Indian system allows for the rate of sewage flow, the rate of sludge accumulation, the
frequency of sludge removal and the effect of surge due to simultaneous discharge from
NBS (2012) in Nigeria, it was affirmed that the average number of people living in a
household in Nigeria ranges from 4 to 9 persons. Therefore, based on this study carried out
by the National Bureau of Statistics in Nigeria, this proposed septic tank system design takes
46
into consideration a septic tank design system for household of six (6) people with full
plumbing facilities that includes the bathroom wastes, toilet wastes, kitchen wastes. Other
forms of sanitary facilities that are installed for luxury and aesthetics purpose are excluded in
this design.
ii. The quantity of water used per person per day for kitchen use, bathing, urinating and
defecating is 75 litres
iv. Rate of sludge accumulation is taken as 70 litres per person per annum. This value
was selected based on the diet of an average Nigerian adult which results in him
process occurs less readily at lower temperatures and so the effective capacity for
sludge storage has to be increased. The appropriate value for f is selected from
Table 3.1.
Table 3.1: Values of Sizing Factor f for Stated De-sludging Intervals and Temperatures
Numbers of years Ambient Temperature
between de-sludging More than 20C More than 10C Less than 10C
throughout the year throughout the year throughout the year
1 1.3 1.5 2.5
2 1.0 1.15 1.5
3 1.0 1.0 1.27
4 1.0 1.0 1.15
5 1.0 1.0 1.06
6 or more 1.0 1.0 1.0
(Source: John, 1980)
47
Using the British Standard Code of Practice formula, we have
C = 180(6) + 1500
C = 1080 + 1500
VL(in litres) = 6 x 75 x 1
VL = 450 litres
VS (in litres) = 6 x 5 x 70 1
VS = 2100 litres
The sum of the volume of the clear effluent after settlement (VL) and the volume of the
sludge and scum deposited (VS) is equivalent to the effective volume of the septic tank.
VE = VL + VS (3.3)
48
VE = 450 + 2100
VE = 2550 litres
VE= 2.55 m3
Due to the limitation of the British formula in considering only the contributing population,
the effective volume gotten for the Indian system of design will be adopted for further
calculation.
2
In a septic tank system, two-third (3) of the effective volume is required for the septic unit
1
while the remaining one-third (3) is required for the freeboard.
2
2.55 m3 = 1.70 m3
3
Designing for the circular septic system using precast rings made in Nigeria.
Inner diameter d of a precast ring is 0.70 m while the outer diameter D is 1.0 m
1.70m3= 0.352 h
1.70
h = 0.350.35
h= 4.9 m
49
Designing for the circular septic system using in-situ casting of concrete as wall
1.70m3 = r2 2.5
1.70
r2 = 2.5
r2 = 0.21 m
r = 0.46 m
d = 2 0.46 m = 0.92 m
If the thickness of the wall is 0.15m, therefore the outer diameter D of the septic tank will be
The final depth will be the sum of the initial depth + freeboard
After calculation has been done to get the required height for the septic tank design, the
effective depth of the soakaway must also be gotten for proper design.
The effective depth of a soak away chamber, h, is defined as the depth between the invert
level of the lowest pipe entering the chamber and the base of the chamber.
The required effective depth of the soak away is calculated using the following equation.
.
h= (3.4)
50
Where: A is the Infiltration Area (m2)
N is the Population
medium sand
2 Fine and loamy sand Moist soil sticks together but will not 33
form a ball.
3 Sandy loam and loam Moist soil forms a ball but still feels 24
4 Loam, porous silt loam Moist soil forms a ball which easily 18
fingers.
5 Silty clay loam and clay Moist soil forms a strong ball which 8
shiny.
6 Clay Moist soil moulds like plasticine and Unsuitable for soak pits
6 75
A= = 13.64 m2
33
Designing for the circular soakaway system depth using precast rings made in Nigeria.
51
0.48 13.64
h = 0.7 0.7 = 4.25 m
Designing for the circular soakaway system depth using the in-situ casting of concrete
Using equation 3.4 to get our effective depth of the precast soakaway
0.48 13.64
h = 0.92 0.92 = 2.46 m
The volume of biogas that can be produced varies from waste to waste. Gurung (2007) gives
To determine the amount of biogas that can be generated from the effective volume of the
septic system, the density formula is used to calculate the total mass of the effluent, sludge
and scum that is, the effective volume of the system in kg.
Note: The density of human faeces is approximately the same as that of water.
52
Therefore
Mass
Density = Effective Volume of Septic System (3.6)
Mass
1000kg/m3 = VE
Mass = 1000 VE
= 2550 kg.
If 1kg of human faeces will produce 0.070 m3 of gas (Table 3.3), therefore 2460 kg from six
2550 0.070
= 178.5 m3 of gas
178.5
VB = =0.098 m3 of biogas.
365 5
The potential electricity generation estimation was done using a model developed by Jewel.
Electricity generation was modeled by taking the estimated biogas production and assuming
it was used in an engine-generator set, with a capacity factor of 0.95 and conversion
efficiencies output of 200 kW. In addition, 25% of the output of the engine-generator was
assumed to contribute to operating the conversion process of the system itself known as
parasitic load (Jewel, 2005). Considering the total biogas generated per day and the calorific
value of biogas, it can be estimated that the amount of electricity (E) generated per day will
be the product of the biogas produced per day (B), the calorific value of biogas (C), the
capacity factor of the engine-generator set (F) and the 25% of the generator conversion
Therefore, the amount of potential amount of electricity to be generated per day will be
53
E=BCFO (3.7)
From the volume of biogas to be generated per day estimated above, VB = 0.098 m3
The efficiency of a generator fuelled with biogas is 25% of the generator conversion output
E = 7.22 kWh
Engineering drawing is a graphical language that communicates ideas and information from
one mind to another. Most especially, it communicates all needed information from the
engineer who designed a part or system to the workers who will make it. Several softwares
have been developed over the years for easy drafting of drawings and one of the most
common of such products is the Autodesk products, it has been used in drafting and
For this research work, the recent version of AutoCAD which is one of the Autodesk
products was used. Based on the design calculation carried out, the detailed engineering
drawing for the septic system design was drawn and presented in borders. Other dimensions
used in the drawing are based on the dimensions of the locally fabricated precast rings
After the detail engineering drawing was drafted, the three dimensional view of the
engineering drawings was also prepared. This is to help appreciate the design and assist in
54
3.9 Computer Software Program Tool for the Modified Septic System
The sizing and costing of the septic system was prepared. Various software packages like
Visual Basic, Wolfram Alpha, and Databases can be used for the sizing and costing of the
septic system but for flexibility and easy interaction by potential users, Microsoft Excel
software program was used. Microsoft Excel is a software program that has the basic features
of all spreadsheets, using a grid of cells arranged in numbered rows and letter-
named columns to organize data manipulations. Microsoft excel have been used by several
people for building great charts, collate data together, comparing results and so on.
The sizing of the circular septic system was developed with the program tool to determine the
various dimension of the system. This will help various and potential designers of circular
septic systems to design with ease and saving them lots of time in their design calculation.
This prepared computer based program tool can be used by various civil and environmental
engineers that are or will be involved in circular septic system design and construction. It will
also serve as a useful and dynamic tool for all energy and environmental organizations.
The cost analysis of the circular septic system was also developed with the program tool. This
will help prospective installer to know the likely cost of constructing or installing the system.
The costing was done based on the various stages of work that would be involved in citing
the system.
The stages of work to be employed for the construction of the precast septic system area as
follows:
55
iii. Casting of the septic unit base
3.9.2.2 Stages of Work for Citing the Cast In-situ Septic System
The stages of work to be employed for the construction of the conventional septic system are
NOTE: Each stages of work listed are to be done by skilled and experts personnel for proper
construction.
56
CHAPTER FOUR
The design calculation of the modified septic tank system was done for a household of six
people using both the British and Indian standard code of practice for the design and
construction of septic systems and dimensions were gotten for the drafting of the engineering
drawing designs. The various dimensions gotten for both the septic tank and soakaway units
are summarized in Tables 4.1, 4.2, 4.3 and 4.4. Some of the parameters listed are
measurement gotten from the locally prefabricated rings produced here in Nigeria.
57
Table 4.3: Summary of the Precast Soakaway Dimensions
S/N Parameters considered Results units
1 Infiltration Area 13.64 m2
From Tables 4.1 to 4.4, there are some variations in the values gotten as a result of different
techniques employed in the design. Table 4.1 and 4.2 presented the summary of the precast
and cast in-situ septic tank dimensions respectively. From Tables 4.1 and 4.2, it can be seen
that with the same effective volume, the precast septic tank has a deeper depth of 4.90 m than
that of the cast in-situ septic with 2.80 m, but with a less diameter of 0.70 m. Also, the
thickness of wall ring considered for both systems are the same. Table 4.3 and 4.4 present the
summary of the precast and cast in-situ soakaway dimensions respectively and it was
observed that with the same infiltration area for both systems, the precast soakaway has a
58
higher depth of 4.25 m but a lesser diameter of 0.70 m while the cast in-situ soakaway system
Therefore, from the results obtained from the calculations, it appears that an inverse
relationship exist between the depth and the diameter of both septic systems.
The engineering drawing was drafted using the latest AutoCAD software based on the
dimensions gotten from the design calculation. The plans and sectional elevations for both the
precast septic system and the cast in-situ septic system were presented. Also, the ring details
of the proposed design were drawn and inserted inside a title block for better presentation as
The engineering drawings show the plans and sections of the septic system for both the
precast and cast in-situ having all the required features essential for the proper functioning of
the system. Both drawings show the house from where all the wastes flow from via the
inlet/receiving pipe of 150 mm diameter buried inside the soil into the septic unit.
Sedimentation and digestion processes occur thereafter inside the unit. In the process, the
wastes form into three different layers namely the sludge (the solid matters), the effluent (the
The cover of both septic units have on them the inspection holes for carrying out maintenance
work and gas outlets via which the gases coming out can be trapped, gas collector chamber
for collecting the gas, pressure gauge for recording the gas pressure, thermometer for
measuring the septic tank and the surrounding temperatures and de-sludging pipe for
removing the sludge when the septic tank has reached a certain level.
The outlet pipe receives the effluent from the septic unit after it has reached about two-third
of the unit and the flow is done by gravity into the soakaway unit. The soakaway unit just like
59
the septic unit also has a gas outlet pipe attached to its cover. The gas outlet for the soakaway
unit was joined with the septic unit gas outlet to trap any gas escaping from the septic unit
into it. Both were then passed into the gas collector chamber. (Figures 4.1 and 4.4)
The amount of gas evolving from the septic system is of interest in this study. Since most
gases have small densities, it is usually not practical to collect the gas and find its volume.
For gases that are not particularly soluble in water, it is possible to collect the evolved gas by
displacement of water from a container. The setup for the collection of biogas over water
involves a big rubber container and a transparent gas collection calibrated plastic container
filled with water to a certain level and inverted inside the big reservoir of water inside the
rubber container. The gas generated is collected by attaching one end of a pipe to the
container and inserting the other up into the inverted gas collection calibrated plastic.
Weights are placed in equilibrium state on the calibrated plastic containers to hold in the
inverted position. As the biogas is generated, it will displace water from the plastic. The
volume of biogas generated can be determined by the amount of water that was displaced by
the biogas inside the calibrated plastic container (Figures 4.2 and 4.3).
The gas generated inside the calibrated plastic container was passed into the electrical
engines for power generation. Two engines are considered in this design as seen on the
drawing viz the internal combustion engine coupled with the generator and the fuel cell
engine.
equipment, marine propulsion, and backup power applications. Combustion engines employ
60
the expansion of hot gases to push a piston within a cylinder, converting the linear movement
of the piston into the rotating movement of a crankshaft to generate power. While the steam
engines that powered the industrial revolution were driven by externally-produced steam,
modern combustion engines used for electric power generation are internal combustion
engines in which an air-fuel mixture is compressed by a piston and ignited within a cylinder.
Biogas generally is used as fuel for combustion engines, which convert it to mechanical
generator is similar to the design of an electric motor. Most generators produce alternating
current (AC) electricity; they are therefore also called alternators or dynamos. Biogas can
also be used as fuel in nearly all types of combustion engines, such as gas engines (Otto
From the engineering drawing in Figures 4.2 and 4.3, the first stage of the engine generator
set is the internal combustion engine and it uses the biogas generated from the septic system
as fuel. This biogas convert the generator attached to it to mechanical energy thereby
producing electricity.
A fuel cell is a device that generates electricity by a chemical reaction. Every fuel cell has
two electrodes, one positive and one negative, called, respectively, the anode and cathode.
The fuel cell produces electricity as long as the cell receives a supply of fuel which is the gas
entering the device and it can dispose of the oxidized old fuel. In a fuel cell, the anode usually
is bathed in the fuel while the cathode collects and makes available the oxidant (often
atmospheric oxygen). An ion conducting membrane separates the two, allowing the reaction
to take place without affecting the electrodes. One great appeal of fuel cells is that they
generate electricity with very little pollution, much of the hydrogen and oxygen used in
61
generating electricity ultimately combines to form a harmless byproduct, namely water.
A single fuel cell generates a tiny amount of direct current (DC) electricity. In practice, many
fuel cells are usually assembled into a stack or cell (Figures 4.2 and 4.3).
62
Figure 4.1: Plan Views of the Precast and In-situ Circular Septic System
63
Figure 4.2: Sectional View of the Precast Circular Septic System
64
Figure 4.3: Sectional View of the In-situ Circular Septic System
65
Figure 4.4: Precast Ring Details of the Circular Septic System
66
4.3 Three Dimensional Modeling
The three dimensional modeling of the circular septic system was prepared using Autodesk
Inventor 3D CAD to give a better view and perspective to prospective installer or constructor.
The South East and North East sectional views are presented in Figure 4.5 and 4.6
respectively. Also, the labeled sectional view of the system is presented in Figure 4.7.
67
Figure 4.7: The Labeled Sectional View of the 3-Dimensional Drawing
In sizing a circular septic system without having to engage oneself in manual calculations,
Microsoft Excel software was used to prepare a computer software program tool that can be
used in most circular septic design system around the world provided some attached
Eights sheets were created and renamed into septic design terminologies. Each sheet was
created to simplify the computer based program tool for ease of use by prospective designers.
The sheets were labeled introduction, conditions and tables, effluent capacity, sludge
capacity, effective volume and depth, biogas/electric power estimation, soakaway capacity
The introduction sheet introduces the user to the function and essence of the computer based
program tool and the designers detail. The condition and tables sheet highlighted some limits
and boundaries to which the computer based program tool is subjected to. The effluent
68
capacity and sludge capacity sheets provide the user with cells where values can be slotted to
get the respective capacities. The effective volume and depth sheets give the needed capacity
for the septic tank unit, while the biogas/electric power estimation sheet gives us the probable
volume of gas with the accompanying electric power that can be generated from the circular
septic system per day depending on the population and other design parameters contributing
to the system.
The soakaway capacity sheet gives the soakaway design capacity and also shows the
infiltration area and effective depth. The cost analysis which is the last sheet presented the
likely cost estimate of the proposed design if any prospective installer decides to install the
system. However, the user must note that the cost analysis sheet is subjected to current
market price of each material. The program sheets are presented in Figures 4.8 to 4.15.
69
Figure 4.8: Computer Software Program Interface showing the Prepared Title Sheet Page
70
Figure 4.9: Computer Software Program Interface showing the Prepared Conditions and Tables Sheet
71
Figure 4.10: Computer Software Program Interface showing the Prepared Effluent Capacity Sheet
72
Figure 4.11: Computer Software Program Interface showing the Prepared Sludge and Scum Capacity Sheet
73
Figure 4.12: Computer Software Program Interface showing the Prepared Effective Volume and Depth Sheet
74
Figure 4.13: Computer Software Program Interface showing the Prepared Probable Biogas Volume Sheet
75
Figure 4.14: Computer Software Program Interface showing the Prepared Soakaway Capacity and Depth Sheet
76
Figure 4.15: Computer Software Program Interface showing the Prepared Summary Cost Sheet
77
4.4.2 Cost Summary Analysis
The cost summary analysis of the septic system design was prepared to give the approximate
cost of the system if it is constructed. The interface as seen above in Figure 4.15 provided the
user with information on the stage of work involved, units, quantity, rates and amount. It also
makes it easier for prospective system installers to have the probable idea of the cost involved
when required values and current market prices are slotted in the various boxes provided.
Various benefits can be achieved from the optimal design of this system and they are listed as
follows:
The main motivation for this research work is renewable energy production for domestic use.
As biogas generated composed mainly of methane (CH4), it is the same energy carrier as in
natural gas. Methane can be burnt for cooking or cleaned for lighting. It can also be used to
The economic benefit is that the buying of (fossil) fuel resources (for example kerosene,
liquefied petroleum gas, charcoal or fuel wood) is no longer needed. Also, switching from
countries to biogas fired generation capacity improves security of energy supply (locally as
well as nationally or regionally) as the feedstocks or wastes can mostly be acquired locally.
The proposed septic system if constructed well will help to keep human faeces in a confined
area which in turn reduces the amount of pollutants in the immediate environment and
increases sanitation. Also, households (especially those ones in rural areas) no longer need to
78
extract wood for cooking or for providing warmth for their bodies during cold weather, which
can reduce deforestation levels where people heavily rely on wood fuel. The release of
The sludge remaining after digestion is a good fertilizer which after de-sludging can be used
Septic system owners must ensure that their systems are maintained properly. Even a well-
designed and properly operating septic tank system will eventually fail if it is not also
maintained. Regular maintenance can prevent failures such as clogging of the septic tank inlet
To guarantee the normal and safe performance of the proposed biogas septic tank,
follows:
i. The septic tank should be pumped out at least once every three to five years
depending on the tank size, amount of solids entering the tank, and habits of the users
ii. When the septic tank is de-sludged, it should not be washed or disinfected in order to
continue the digesting process when the tank is put into use again. A small quantity of
iii. The junctions and valves should be checked regularly to prevent leakage and in case
79
iv. Septic tank non-safe products such as cigarette butts, sanitary napkins and disposable
diapers that dont easily degrade and which can also clog the septic inlets/outlets
v. Leakage of biogas around the covers and gas distribution tank should be checked
80
CHAPTER FIVE
5.1 Conclusion
This research has considered modified design of circular septic system for bio-methanation of
household wastes for electricity generation. Three major stages of design were employed viz
the design calculations, engineering drawings and the Microsoft excel spreadsheet program
preparation to prepare a flexible and dynamic computer software tool program for the proper
sizing and costing of circular septic systems. A three dimensional rendering of the system
was also performed to bring out a better view after being constructed. The following has
1. This study has improved on the existing circular septic system design which originally
was constructed purposely for waste collection from their houses, offices and
industries.
2. It is also evident that the existing system have been redesigned to recover methane gas
5.2 Recommendations
institutions and other relevant bodies for proper funding of the research as this will
ease the researcher(s) of financial stress which may cause delay of the research.
bring about a better output as each sections of work will be handled by expert from
81
3. The flexible computer software program calculator developed may be adopted in the
ii. provide a flexible computer software program tool for proper sizing of the circular
82
REFERENCES
in Africa: A paper presented during the biofuel market Africa 2007 conference, Cape
American history (2008). Basic Overview of Fuel Cell Technology. Available at:
Babatola, J. O. (2008). Comparative Study of Biogas Yield Pattern in some Animal and
Case Study of Biogas Engines. Journal of India World Development. 18(4): 575 -
590.
83
Biomass Energy Institute (1998). Biogas Production from Animal Wastes. Biogas Energy
Bove R. and Lunghi P. (2006). Electric power generation from landfill gas using traditional
Cecil, H. and Tony, T. (1999). Septic Tank Design and Construction, Issued in furtherance
CEERT (2001). Renewable and Non- Renewable Energy United State Department of
Curtis, W. and Loren, J. (2009). Mastering Autodesk Inventor 2010. Volume 1, Weley
De Levie, R. (2004). Advanced Excel for Scientific Data Analysis. Oxford University Press.
European Biogas Association (2015) Energy from field energy crops a handbook for energy
Gramms, L.C., Polkowski, L.B and Wintel, S.A. (1999). Anaerobic Digestion of Farm
Animal Wastes (diary bull, swine, and poultry). Annual meeting paper, pp 69-462.
84
Gurung, T., (2007) report on Updated Guidebook on Biogas Development -Energy Resources
Hart, S.A. (1993). Digestion Tests of Livestock Wastes. Journal of Water Pollutant Control
Harvey, P., Baghri, S., and Reed, B. (2002). Emergency Sanitation: Assessment and
Howard, S.P, George,T and Donald, D.R (2005). Environmental Engineering, 3rd Edition,
Indian Standard Code of Practice IS: 2470 (2003). Code of Practice for Installation of Septic
Tanks. (Amended in 1996 and Reprinted in 2003). Indian Standards Institution, New
Delhi.
Jewel, W. (2005). Professor Emeritus, Cornell University. Personal communication with Dr.
John, P. (1980).The Design of Septic Tanks & Aqua-privies Overseas Building Journals,
187: 6-9.
from maize cob and maize stalk, unpublished B.Sc. Project, Submitted to the School
85
Mawufemo, M. (2014). Design of Biogas Septic tanks for treating domestic sewage.
Max, A. and Charlotte, A. (1996) Wells and Septic Systems 2nd Edition Tab Book Ltd, New
Mendoza L., Carballa M., Zhang L. and Verstraete W. (2008) Treatment of low and medium
Mitzlaff, K.V. (1988). Engines for Biogas. Documents early approaches of GTZ towards
Modi, P.N. (2011) Sewage Treatment and Disposal and Wastewater Engineering3rd Edition,
National Bureau of Statistics (2012), Social Statistics in Nigeria Part one, Constitution
Oyeleke, S. B. (2007), Microbe and bio-energy production. Paper Presented at 31st Annual
Panswad, T.and Komolmethee L. (1997), Effects of hydraulic shock loads on small on-site
86
Patrick, O. S. (2015) Production of Biogas from Perennial and Biennial Crop Wastes: Peach
79-89.
Professional Septic Tank Consultant (2005) Septic Tank Design, Construction and
2016).
Veeken, A., and Hamelers, B. (1999). Effect of temperature on hydrolysis rate of selected
Werner, K. and Uta, P. (2002), Biogas Digest volume one, Information and Advisory
Technologies (HEAT)
World Health Organisation (2003), International Standards for Drinking Water, World
87