The Use of Natural Rubber Leaves, Seeds, Vegetable Clippings and Animal Droppings as Materials for Biogas Production

Abstract

The importance of green chemistry cannot be overemphasized, hence the world over, the use of renewable materials and energy is now the norm and is in vogue. In this paper a study of the production of biogas from vegetative sources, in this case rubber leaves and other plant and animal waste or remains, is carried out with a view to encouraging the use of Nigerian's vast agricultural resources as a raw materials for the production of green environmental friendly and ecologically friendly biodiesel. It will also help to reduce cost of fuel and pollution and green house effects.

A 3600 litres capacity biogas plant turns about 9kg 12.5kg of vegetable waste (NR Leaves and seeds and chippings into cooking fuel daily. The decomposition of the vegetable waste yields methane and carbon dioxide, which inflates a number bladder to creative the pressure necessary to supply a gas burner. The can be used for cooking, lighting and heating and be used for biodiesel in some diesel engines and in cooling systems and other appliances, thus biogas can effectively replace fossil – based natural gas. An 800litres capacity biogas plant can provide about 1hour - 2hours daily stovetop cooking for a family.