DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF A BIO DIGESTER TOILET SYSTEM FOR EFFECT WASTE MANAGEMENT IN AN AUTOMOBILE WORKSHOP

Student: Oghenevuriri Glory Peter
Supervisor: Engr Gregory Dolor Dolor
HOD: Engr Gregory Dolor
Department of Mechanical Engineering
Engineering
Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe, Delta State

Abstract

This project focuses on the Design and Construction of a Bio-Digester Toilet System specifically engineered for effective waste management within an automobile workshop. Conventional waste disposal systems, such as septic tanks and pit latrines, often prove inadequate in industrial clusters due to space constraints, high maintenance costs, and the risk of groundwater contamination. This study addresses these challenges by implementing a decentralized biological treatment unit that utilizes anaerobic digestion to convert human waste into treated effluent and odorless gases. The system was designed as a three-chambered anaerobic digester constructed with reinforced concrete to ensure structural integrity amidst the heavy-duty activities and vibrations typical of a workshop environment. A key innovation in this design is the integration of a grease and oil interceptor at the primary inlet to prevent automotive chemicals and lubricants from entering the tank and neutralizing the microbial ecosystem. The process was initiated using a high-potency bacterial inoculum to accelerate the decomposition of organic matter, effectively eliminating the need for periodic mechanical dislodging. Evaluation of the system demonstrated a 70% reduction in physical footprint compared to traditional soakaway pits, alongside the production of pathogen-free effluent suitable for safe environmental discharge. The results indicate that the bio-digester is a cost-effective, maintenance-free, and environmentally sustainable sanitation solution that significantly improves the hygiene standards and operational efficiency of the informal industrial sector. Keywords: Bio-Digester, Waste Management, Automobile Workshop, Anaerobic Digestion, Environmental Sustainability, Sanitation Engineering, Grease Interceptor.

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