SR3: Filtrating Setup for Detergent-Rich Sewage

RENE PASTER
EUNICE JOY PANES
SY 2007-2008
Researchers

MR. DARWIN Q. LUMOSBOG, Project Adviser

This study proposed a design for filtrating detergent – rich sewage. Alternative filtrating setups should be installed before the sewage gets into the river. In this project, pebble, coarse sand and pound charcoal are used as filtrating agents in a setup that would at any rate, minimize the pollutants, particularly those from detergents that could contaminate the river waters. It won 3rd in the 2007 Regional Science Fair - Cluster 1, Physical Science Team.

ABSTRACT

The feasibility of a model of a set up to filter aqueous detergent

mixtures was studied. The setup was constructed out of a used 1.5 liter plastic container using pebbles, sand and pound charcoal enclosed by fine nets. A detergent mixture was poured on its opening end and the time intervals of 5 and 10 minutes were observed in collecting filtrates. Result showed that 80% of the observers found the filtrate clear and 20% said it was somewhat clear. The mean amount of 49.8 mL and 93.7 mL were obtained in 5 and 10 minutes intervals, respectively. Statistical comparison resulted in a significant t-value of -11.157, implying that the filtrate production was time-dependent. The mean pH values of the original aqueous mixture and the filtrate were 11.34 and 9.14, respectively. Statistical assessment turned out a significant t-value of 21.783, which meant that the alkalinity of the original mixture was way higher than that of its filtrate. Generally, the setup produced clearer and pH-lower filtrate. Additionally, its filtration depended on time.