The toilets have two chambers. After
defecation, a handful of wood ash, sawdust, straw or leaves is added to
enhance the composting process.
The composting matter should be kept dry, so urine is
diverted into a perforated clay pot buried in the ground while anal washing
water is diverted to a seepage bed.
When the first chamber is about ¾ full, it is ‘sealed’ for 6
to 9 months while the second chamber is used.
During this time, the material in the first chamber
‘composts’. As it composts,
microorganisms break down organic matter (like feces)
into safe topsoil that can be used in gardens to
grow food. The compost has a pleasant smell and can be safely handled
without fear of contamination.
In this view, the chamber
on the left is being used. Urine is diverted to the front and anal washing
water to the rear.
Dual-chamber base:
The first step in construction is to lay a foundation and then construct the
two vaults or chambers.
The chambers are built with hollow cement blocks. The footprint is about
5'6" x 4'6".
The pictures on the right (press a button to advance) show several stages
of construction.
Building the vaults (Press buttons for new picture)