ManPas – farm-scale manure hygienizer using microbial heat

ManPas is a farm-scale manure hygienizer that heat treats manure at 70°C using heat from microbial decomposition, meeting EU hygienization standards. The system, which takes up to three days with an active phase of just over an hour, removes pathogens and germinating seeds. It features a silo, discharge screw, and automated temperature-controlled operation. Hygienized manure can be used as soil amendment or bedding, reducing storage needs and eliminating risk classification. Proven effective for horse manure in peat-bedded stalls, it offers a faster, more efficient alternative to composting or biogas processing, with lower nutrient loss. The technology is also being tested for dry cow manure and broiler production, with potential for biochar enrichment. The first prototype (ManPas 1000) was built in June 2023, with a daily capacity of 1–1.5m³; larger models are in development. Designed by Nora Berglund (MTK) in Finland, the system is not endorsed by the BRANCHES project. Further information at www.branchesproject.eu and www.branches.fi.