Food Waste to Methane Gas Converter: A Proposal

Abstract

The price hike of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) nowadays is a huge problem for some families and individuals in the country. Some people cannot afford to buy their LPG gas tank, thereby leaving them no choice but to use wood and charcoals. This process would burn the chemicals in wood, which will contribute to pollution as greenhouse gasses. In addition to having a price hike of cooking gas, the amount of biodegradable garbage in the country continues to increase, which is not healthy for the environment. The study focuses on using biodegradable waste as the main component of the methane gas converter. The mentioned converter will able to extract methane gas, which is found in biodegradable waste that can be used as cooking fuel. Biodegradable waste,such as food scraps and kitchen waste,consists of bacteria that can be used as cooking fuel. Instead of dumping these wastes in landfills, and buying an expensive cooking fuel, the study will provide an affordable and efficient converter that will extend the usage of biodegradable waste and lessen pollution. This study utilized quantitative research method in this study. Purposive sampling was composed of 10 science teachers and 10 science experts. The instrument used in this study was a questionnaire. Part 1 of the questionnaire includes the profile of the respondents. Part 2 of the questionnaire consists of the criteria in assessing the acceptability of food waste to methane gas converter. Part 3 of the questionnaire consists of the suggestion formulated by the respondents to test the acceptability of the converter. The questionnaire was distributed to the respondents. The researchers have decided to use PET-LD 04, which is also known as Polyethylene Low Density Number 04, as the main digester or fermentation area of the slurry and other biodegradable materials, such as manure and food waste. The digester can store a gas pressure of up to 200 psi (pounds per square inch) and 10 liters of manures. After conducting several trial-and-errors, the researchers have conducted an extensive reading to improve the digester. The researchers have to use PET-LD 04. The researchers have conducted a pressure test on the digester, and results show PET-LD 04 can handle a pressure of up to 200 psi. PET-LD 04 is known as a high-quality plastic that is being used for handling chemicals.