RESEARCH PROPOSAL _ IDEAS (1)
RESEARCH PROPOSAL _ IDEAS (1)
1. Title:
Rationale:
3. Experimentation:
a. Property Testing
i. Durability:
1. Cut identical samples of piña, abaca, and hybrid fabrics
2. Measure and record initial tensile strength using hanging
weight and spring scale
3. Submerge in 20 °C tap water for 30, 60, and 90 minutes
4. Measure final dimensions, and tensile strength after
submerssion
5. Record and compare degradation or tears
6. Analyze results with descriptive stats and using the T-Test
ii. Debris Collection
1. Cut identical samples of piña, abaca, and hybrid fabrics
2. Create 3 mixtures of sediments, gravel, sand, and glitters, with
recorded mass per debris, and concentration of mixture
3. Pour the mixture into each fabric, and soak well.
4. Compare the mass loss of the mixture, and determine the
percentage of debris collected using separating mixtures
(evaporation or sedimentation)
5. Apply evaporation or sedimentation
6. Record and analyze using a T-test
b. Performance Testing
i. 3D-printed jellyfish-inspired impeller
ii. Submerge the system in a tank in water
iii. Run motor at different voltages (3V, 6V, 9V)
iv. Measure thrust using measured physical quantities (terminal velocity,
displacement, drag force, Robot Mass, assuming constant average
acceleration)
v. Record amount of particles trapped on mesh
vi. Inspect the mesh after cycles for durability
vii. Compare results across materials (piña, abaca, hybrid)
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2.Title:
TiO₂-Assisted Photodegradation of Various Plastics: A Comparative Analysis Under UV
Exposure.
Rationale:
This study is important because it identifies which common plastics degrade more efficiently
under TiO₂-assisted UV exposure, helping develop smarter, more targeted approaches to
plastic waste reduction and environmental sustainability.
Independent:
Dependent:
Controlled:
- Size and shape of plastic samples
- Amount and method of TiO₂ application
- Distance from UV light source
- Exposure time per day
- Total duration of the experiment
Materials:
- PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) – from water bottles
- PE (Polyethylene) – from plastic bags or cling wrap
- PS (Polystyrene) – from disposable cups or packaging foam
- Titanium Dioxide (TiO₂) powder
- Distilled water
- Spray bottle/paint brush
- Beaker
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- Gloves
- Stainless steel tray
Experimentation:
3.Title:
Smart Waste Disposal: A Prototype UV-TiO₂ Trash Bin for Enhanced Plastic
Breakdown.
Rationale:
Plastic waste is a persistent global problem due to its resistance to natural decomposition.
Traditional disposal methods such as landfilling or incineration pose environmental hazards,
while recycling is limited by cost and contamination issues. This study explores a novel,
low-cost approach to managing plastic waste at the point of disposal: a trash bin integrated
with UV lighting (UV-A and UV-B) and Anatase TiO₂ coating to promote in-situ
degradation. By initiating early-stage photodegradation within the bin itself, plastic waste can
begin breaking down before entering landfills or recycling centers. This could help reduce
long-term environmental impact and open new possibilities in smart waste management.
For further explanation, Anatase titanium dioxide (TiO₂) helps break down plastic by acting
as a photocatalyst when exposed to UV light. The UV light energizes the TiO₂ particles,
causing them to release charged particles (electrons and holes) that react with oxygen and
water in the air. These reactions create highly reactive molecules called free radicals, such as
hydroxyl and superoxide radicals. These radicals are powerful enough to attack the long
molecular chains in plastic, breaking the chemical bonds and causing the plastic to weaken,
crack, and fragment.
As the plastic chains break down, oxygen in the environment continues to react with the
smaller fragments, turning them into simpler compounds like acids, alcohols, carbon dioxide,
and water. Over time, this process leads to the full degradation of the plastic. When used in
plastic products, especially in outdoor or UV-exposed environments, anatase TiO₂ can
significantly speed up how quickly the material breaks down, making it a useful tool for
reducing long-term plastic pollution.
Dependent Variables:
Controlled Variables:
Materials:
Experimentation:
Additional:
- The UV-A and UV-B lamp can either be electrically powered or solar powered.
- Solar powered trash bins would be used outdoors (e.g., parks) .
- Non solar powered trash bins would be used indoors (e.g., malls, houses).
4. Title:
Analysis of Rice Husk Ash as Partial Substitutes for Cement in Sustainable Concrete
Mixes
Variables:
Independent Variables:
Dependent Variables:
Controlled Variables:
Experimentation:
1. Prepare three batches for each ash content at 5%, 10%, and 15% cement substitution.
3. Pour into cube molds and cure in water for 7, 14, and 28 days.
C. Mechanical Testing
Expected Outcome:
-Identification if rice husk ash can be used as a partial substitute in cement making.
-A sustainable solution for managing local biomass waste and reducing cement usage.
PASIG CITY SCIENCE HIGH SCHOOL
Rainforest Park, Maybunga, Pasig City
Telefax No. 628-2177
S.Y. 2025-2026
5. Title:
Bioremediation of Heavy Metal Contamination in Pasig River Sediments using Azolla
pinnata
Rationale:
Pasig River, a vital waterway in Metro Manila, suffers from severe heavy metal
contamination, impacting aquatic life, human health, and the local economy. Existing
remediation efforts are often costly and insufficient. Water pollution is a significant
environmental challenge in the Philippines, affecting numerous rivers and posing risks to
public health and sustainable development. Successful bioremediation strategies could offer
a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution applicable nationwide. Heavy metal
contamination of water bodies is a global environmental concern. This study contributes to
the global effort in developing sustainable and eco-friendly remediation techniques.
Can Azolla pinnata significantly reduce heavy metal concentrations in the sediments of the
Pasig River?
Dependent Variable:
Independent Variable:
Controlled Variables:
- Sediment type, water temperature, pH, sunlight exposure, and other environmental
factors
Descriptive Statistics: Will be used to describe the initial heavy metal concentrations in the
sediments and the changes observed over time.
- Azolla pinnata (can be collected from freshwater ponds or sourced from agricultural
suppliers or DENR-accredited nurseries)
- Sediment samples from multiple Pasig River sites (collected with proper permits).
- Containers/trays for holding sediment and water
- Distilled water
-
- pH meter, thermometer
- Analytical balance
- Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS) or Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass
Spectrometry (ICP-MS) for metal analysis
- Laboratory gloves, safety goggles, lab coat
Experimentation:
- Secure permission and collect sediment samples from 3 to 5 Pasig River sites with
known pollution.
- Air-dry sediments and homogenize to ensure consistency across samples.
-
- Obtain healthy Azolla pinnata and acclimate it in distilled water for 2–3 days.
2. Experimental Setup
4. Sampling Schedule
5. Analysis
- Analyze samples for lead, cadmium, and mercury concentration using AAS or
ICP-MS.
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Telefax No. 628-2177
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- Record and compare changes in metal concentration across time and between control
and experimental setups.
6. Data Treatment
7. Documentation
- Take weekly photographs for visual observation of Azolla’s condition and sediment
changes.
- Record qualitative changes (e.g., Azolla color, biomass expansion, smell, etc.).
6. Title:
Development of a Dual-Layer Passive Air Scrubbing Panel Using Activated Carbon and
Calcium Hydroxide for Mobile Ambient Air Purification
Rationale:
Air pollution remains a persistent environmental and public health issue, particularly in urban
areas with heavy vehicle traffic. Traditional car systems like catalytic converters help reduce
some harmful emissions, but they do not actively capture pollutants already present in the
ambient air. This proposal explores the development of a dual-layer passive air-scrubbing
panel that can be installed beneath vehicles to absorb pollutants directly from road-level air.
By combining activated carbon and calcium hydroxide, the panel offers a low-cost,
power-free solution to passively remove toxic substances and greenhouse gases during daily
commutes.
Activated carbon is a form of carbon processed to have a high surface area filled with
microscopic pores. These pores allow it to physically adsorb a wide variety of harmful
airborne pollutants such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), nitrogen oxides (NOₓ),
carbon monoxide (CO), and particulate matter (PM2.5). Meanwhile, calcium hydroxide
(Ca(OH)₂), commonly known as slaked lime, is a chemical compound that reacts chemically
with carbon dioxide (CO₂) to form solid calcium carbonate (CaCO₃). This neutralization
process helps remove excess CO₂, a major greenhouse gas, from the air. Together, these two
materials provide complementary pollutant removal: activated carbon targets toxic gases and
particles, while calcium hydroxide addresses greenhouse gas emissions. This innovative
pairing could contribute to cleaner roadside air and serve as a scalable design for future
vehicle retrofits or city planning solutions.
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Rainforest Park, Maybunga, Pasig City
Telefax No. 628-2177
S.Y. 2025-2026
SOP & Variables:
Can a dual-layer air-scrubbing panel made of activated carbon and calcium hydroxide
effectively reduce ambient pollutants such as CO₂, VOCs, and PM2.5 when installed beneath
a moving vehicle?
Independent Variable:
- Type of filter setup used under the vehicle: Activated carbon + calcium hydroxide
(combined system)
Dependent Variables:
Controlled Variables:
Materials:
- Activated carbon (granules, powder, or foam sheet form) – for adsorbing VOCs,
PM2.5, and harmful gases
- Calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)₂) powder – for reacting with and trapping CO₂
- Perforated or breathable fabric (e.g., non-woven fabric or mesh) – to hold the powders
while allowing air flow
- Acrylic or aluminum sheet – as the outer casing for the panel
- Wire mesh or foam padding – to keep materials in place and support airflow
- Bolts/screws or brackets – for attaching the panel to the vehicle’s underside
- Rubber lining or sealant – to prevent leaks and secure material inside the housing
- Air quality sensors for: CO₂, PM2.5, VOCs
Experimentation:
- Place a piece of breathable cloth or mesh over the carbon so it stays in place but air
can still pass through.
7. Use an air quality sensor to test the air quality of our testing location before, during,
and after the experiment. Weighing the panel before and after the experiment also
helps to see how much gasses the chemicals have absorbed.
7. Title:
Rationale:
Carbon dioxide pollution from vehicles is a growing concern worldwide, especially in urban
areas. In the Philippines, cities like Metro Manila face serious air quality problems due to
traffic congestion. People living near roads are exposed to health risks caused by CO₂. This
study proposes an eco-friendly solution by using algae-infused bricks that naturally absorb
CO₂ through photosynthesis, helping reduce pollution without relying on machines or
electricity.
PASIG CITY SCIENCE HIGH SCHOOL
Rainforest Park, Maybunga, Pasig City
Telefax No. 628-2177
S.Y. 2025-2026
SOP & Variables:
Independent Variable:
- Type of brick (algae-infused brick with Chlorella vulgaris vs. regular brick)
Dependent Variable:
Controlled Variables:
Types of Research:
Materials:
- Chlorella vulgaris culture – from biology labs or aquaculture suppliers
- Porous clay bricks (10x10x5 cm) – from hardware stores or custom molds
- BG-11 nutrient solution – from laboratory chemical suppliers
- Transparent acrylic cover – for sealing algae cavity and allowing sunlight
- Grow light (1000 lux LED lamp) – borrowed or bought online
- CO₂ sensor (e.g., MQ-135 or NDIR type) – from school lab or rented
- Spray bottle – for moistening algae
- Plastic box or glass chamber – as a controlled test environment
- Digital thermometer and hygrometer – to monitor temperature and humidity
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Rainforest Park, Maybunga, Pasig City
Telefax No. 628-2177
S.Y. 2025-2026
Experimentation:
8. Title:
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Telefax No. 628-2177
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SOURCES
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PASIG CITY SCIENCE HIGH SCHOOL
Rainforest Park, Maybunga, Pasig City
Telefax No. 628-2177
S.Y. 2025-2026
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PASIG CITY SCIENCE HIGH SCHOOL
Rainforest Park, Maybunga, Pasig City
Telefax No. 628-2177
S.Y. 2025-2026
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PASIG CITY SCIENCE HIGH SCHOOL
Rainforest Park, Maybunga, Pasig City
Telefax No. 628-2177
S.Y. 2025-2026
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