Chapter 1

This chapter serves as an introduction to the study's background, which will help the readers understand what our study is about. It also highlights the study's research objectives: determining at which time variation will the Heartleaf Philodendron result in the maximum absorption of copper (II) from synthetic wastewater. It also states the research questions and the sectors that will significantly benefit from the study.

Background of the Study

Background
of the Study

Copper (II) is one of the most prevalent heavy metals that contribute to the contamination of our water bodies nowadays. The Pasig river, a significant body of water that passes through Metro Manila (Paronda, et al., 2019) was found to contain copper and other heavy metals like lead and nickel due to the disposal of industrial waste (Atienza, 2018). Aside from that, according to Diwa et al. (2021), copper and chromium had the highest risk of toxicity apart from other heavy metals in Manila bay and other bodies of water surrounding it. This study mainly focused on treating copper from contaminated water. Copper (II) has been the root of rising environmental concerns because of its presence in aquatic life due to its high toxicity (Nassef et al., 2015). There are several strategies for heavy metal removal, such as ion exchange, oxidation, and biological treatment; however, these processes also come with disadvantages, such as high energy requirements and high sludge production (Chong, 2019). Phytoremediation is a strategy utilizing plants for the purpose of removing pollutants from contaminated soil and water (Imadi, et al., 2016). Phytoremediation is seen as a beneficial solution, especially for developing countries, as the expenses required are low and doable (Imadi, et al., 2016). This study aimed to further expand the knowledge of using rhizofiltration, a phytoremediation technique, in filtering Copper (II) from water. The researchers utilized Philodendron hederaceum for rhizofiltration due to its proven capability of removing pollutants, albeit focused on air phytoremediation.

Statement of the Problem

The researchers aimed to study the rhizofiltration potential of Philodendron hederaceum against copper (II) with a 50 ppm concentration in an aqueous solution, within an interval of 24 hours, 6 days, 9 days, and 15 days.

(1)

What is the concentration of copper found in the Philodendron hederaceum after the rhizofiltration process?

(2)

What is the concentration of copper left in the aqueous solution after the rhizofiltration process?

(3)

Is there a significant difference in the heavy metal absorbed by the plant in terms of the set interval of days?

Research Hypothesis

The researchers in the study aimed to discover if P. hederaceum can be used in rhizofiltration to filter out copper (II) from synthetic wastewater. The researchers anticipated that P. hederaceum can decontaminate copper (II) from synthetic wastewater.

Alternative Hypothesis

There is a significant difference in the copper (II) removed by the Philodendron hederaceum from an aqueous solution within 24 hours, 6 days, 9 days, and 15 days.

Null Hypothesis

There is no significant difference in the copper (II) removed by the Philodendron hederaceum from an aqueous solution within 24 hours, 6 days, 9 days, and 15 days.

Significance of the Study

DENR

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) can utilize the findings of this study to direct them in facilitating various approaches to treating contaminated water with heavy metals. This agency can associate with The National Water Resources Board and The Department of Health to ensure that the water resources are safe for the consumption of the public.

Environment

This study will aid the environment in preventing and reducing contaminants such as heavy metals that are present in wastewater, which often leads to water pollution. This will help solve and potentially eliminate water pollution, which has negative effects on biological function and the growth of organisms. A more sustainable approach such as this will also be environmentally friendly and will not inflict more harm on the environment as it uses existing plants that act as heavy metal accumulators.

Community

This study will help the community secure its health and welfare by eradicating the sources of heavy metal contamination in water. These contaminants are lethal to people, they are highly toxic, and might lead to more serious complications when ingested. It will also provide a more cost-effective solution that will guarantee that the water is safe and will not pose any threats to the public's health.

Future Researchers

This research will be able to add new information in the field of phytoremediation and guide future studies that aim to continue the work in this area of research.

Definition of Terms

Atomic absorption spectroscopy

Definition of Terms

This is a process conducted through the means of an atomic absorption spectrophotometer. It measures the concentration of a specific element found in a sample, by using the concept of light absorption of atoms or ions at a particular wavelength (Agilent, n.d.). This study utilized this method for heavy metal analysis of copper found in plant and water samples.

Chapter 2 >