A Nigerian scientist, Ejikeme P. Nwosu, and his team of researchers have fabricated equipment that converts urine into flammable gases, biomethane and hydrogen-rich gases, with 100 per cent indigenous technological inputs.

Nwosu, a graduate of Pure and Industrial Chemistry from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka (NAU), Anambra State with Masters of Science degree in Organic Chemistry from the University of Ibadan (UI), Oyo State, told The Guardian that a blend of these gases- biomethane and hydrogen-rich gases- can be effectively used to run a gas turbine generator to give the nation over 11,250 megawatts hours of electricity.

Biomethane is a 100 per cent renewable energy source produced by the natural breakdown of organic material: green waste, household waste, agricultural waste, food industry waste and even industrial waste.

Nwosu further explained: “According to 2011 National Agricultural Sample Survey, Nigeria was endowed with an estimated 19.5 million cattle, 72.5 million goats, 41.3 million sheep, 7.1 million pigs and 28,000 camels. If these animals are properly ranched, the wastes collected and processed over 10,000 Megawatts of electricity will be generated as well from these animals.

“From these analyses, it is obvious that the solution to epileptic power supply we encounter is within our reach. By end of this year or latest 2018 first quarter, I hope to develop most efficient means of running cars fully on urine. The research is ongoing and I have no doubt what a determined mind can achieve.”

He added: “We have also put up another plant (digester) that converts solid biodegradable wastes to biomethane. These plants are located somewhere in Abuja outskirt. In the plant we have been able to generate and use the produced gases to cook for long times and to power generators.”

Nwosu is hopeful that some of the private firms and donor agencies his team has written to will respond positively so that they can make this technology available in homes, hospitals, prisons and others.

“We are not relenting though; we will be installing this plant at some private farms and facilities any moment this year,” he said.

Nwosu, in 2014, obtained a patent for his pioneer work in converting urine into flammable gases. The breakthrough raised the hope of the world using urine to solve its energy crisis.

Nwosu got Patent No NG/P/20/2013/699 for developing a process for conversion of urine into hydrogen-ammonia rich flammable gases and fire resistant materials. (The Guardian)

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