How Do I Collect Methane Gas?

Methane can be used for cooking, heating and lighting.

Biogas is the name given to gaseous fuels like methane that are produced from biomass (biological materials such as food waste, plant clippings or manure). Methane generators can be bought commercially. You can also make your own do-it-yourself (DIY) methane generator using cheaply available parts and materials.

Function

A methane generator consists essentially of a collector for the methane and a container for the biomass, called a biogas digester. The digester allows methane-producing bacteria to process the biomass. The collector stores the gas. You can use a plastic bag to store the gas. Alternatively you can use a plastic drum. The methane can then be used for cooking, lighting etc..

Benefits

Biogas is a renewable fuel. Methane produced in this way is virtually free, assuming you have a ready source of biomass. When you collect methane, you are also processing waste products instead of dumping them.

Considerations

The methane you collect is flammable. Methane collection is best done at the point where the biomass itself is generated, so it's more realistic if you live on a farm or in the country. The biomass can also pose health risks from bacteria. It's important to wash thoroughly after working around your collector.

References

• Sustainable Living on a Small Farm the Permaculture Way: DIY Methane Generator
• Making Methane from Chicken Manure: Digester Construction

Resources

• Making Methane from Chicken Manure: Resources