Is it possible to make energy out of human waste?

Question

If we could wouldn't that solve alot of the wold's problems?

Answer 1

A process similar to what is discussed in this link.

http://www.energyfarms.net/biogasdigeste...

Answer 2

It is possible, and a lot of sewage treatment plants do exactly that.  It's a simple process.  You mix up the sh*t with water, and hold it in an airtight, expandable tank with all the air pumped out of it, at a steady, fairly warm temperature.  Methane gas will be produced, which is piped off.  The gas will contain sulphur dioxide, which must be removed before it can be used in metal burners and so on (otherwise it will corrode metal parts it comes in contact with).  

The plants typically use this methane to generate some of the power they need to operate.

A lot of biological waste can be used to generate methane in the same way.  Yes I think it would be helpful if more was done with it.

There's various videos on youtube from people who make a hobby out of building methane digesters in their backyards...

http://youtube.com/watch?v=rjiDVu4adis