ACTIVATED CARBON FROM GUAVA (Psidium guajava) BRANCHES AS AN

ALTERNATIVE WATER FILTER

A Research Paper Presented to

The Faculty of the Senior High School Department
AGUSAN NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL
Butuan City

In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the subject

CAPSTONE RESEARCH

Shairah Mae D. Delos Santos

Alexia Martha S. Peligro
Kristine Mae M. Labador
Ryan Daniel P. Gragasin
Carlos Miguel S. Dimla
Dannie Ann S. Montes
Marlon P. Balbalosa
Gerald John A. Mesa
Janvic M. Namalata
Alliyah Joy Oropa
Aiko T. Uto

MARCH 2021
 ii

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

This study was made with effort and sincerity by the

researchers along with the guidance of different individuals who

has helped them in giving knowledge in the field of research. The

researchers would like to express their gratitude to the

following:

To the almighty God, for giving them the guide, strength,

hope and knowledge that they needed throughout the study and for

the support both physically and mentally.

To their teacher, Mrs. Maricar Gonzales, who guided the

researchers by teaching them the basic structure and rules in the

making of the research study. Also, for the additional knowledge,

patience and guidance in conducting their study that drives the

researchers to work harder.

To their loving parents, Mr. & Mrs. Balbalosa, Mr. & Mrs.

Delos Santos, Mr. & Mrs. Dimla, Mr. & Mrs. Gragasin, Mr. & Mrs.

Labador, Mr. & Mrs. Namalata, Mr. & Mrs. Mesa, Mr. & Mrs.

Barcelete, Mr. Sueco & Ms. Oropa, Mr. & Mrs. Peligro, and Mr. &

Mrs. Uto who supported the researchers not only through financial

means but also through moral support.

 iii

DEDICATION

This study was dedicated to our loving parents for their

undying support, their guidance, and their words of encouragement

to finish this research paper.

To our siblings, relatives, teachers, friends, and

classmates who supported, cheered, and understood us all

throughout the making of this study.

To the future researchers who will do similar study, we give

our full support to you.

Lastly, we dedicated this study to the Almighty God. We

thank you for the strength, hope, knowledge, and guidance that

You showered upon us. All of these, we offer it to You.

 iv

ABSTRACT

Water scarcity was one of the serious problems that our

government was facing due to economic growth and rapid increase
of population. Onsite non-potable water reuse was one of the
solutions that can help communities reclaim, recycle, and then
reuse unfiltered river water for non-drinking water purposes.
This study was conducted to assess the potential of activated
carbon from Guava branches (Psidium guajava) as an alternative
water filter. A parallel-group design was used in this study
since it involves one (1) control variable and three (3)
experimental variables. The Guava branches (Psidium guajava)
underwent carbonization on 600 degrees Celsius and lemon extract
was used as an activating agent to produce the activated carbon.
The pH level, turbidity, total alkalinity, total dissolved solids
were determined using pH meter, La Motte multi-parameter meter,
titrimetric method with sulfuric acid as titrant, and gravimetric
method dried at 180 degrees Celsius respectively. Based on the
result, there were evident changes on the test samples before and
after showing the effect of the o filtration. The One-way ANOVA
or single factor variance determined that there was a significant
deference between the test samples. Therefore, the two (2)
hypothesis were rejected since there was a significant difference
between the test samples.

Keywords: Activated Carbon, Branches, Filter, Guava,

River, Water
 v

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page

Title Page …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………i

Acknowledgement ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………ii
Dedication …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………...iii
Abstract ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………iv
Table of Contents ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………v
List of Tables…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………vii
List of Figures…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….viii
CHAPTER
1 THE PROBLEM AND REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE
Background of the Study ………………………………………………………………………….1
Research Objectives …………………………………………………………………………………….3
Statement of the Problem ……………………………………………………………………..4
Theoretical Framework ……………………………………………………………………………….5
Conceptual Framework …………….………………………………………………………………….5
Research Paradigm ………………………………………………………………………………………..6
Scope and Limitation ………………………………………………………………………………..6
Significance of the Study ……………………………………………………………..….7
Definition of Terms …………………………………………………………………….……..….7
Review of Related Literature …………………………………………….……..….9
2 METHODOLOGY
Research Design ……………………………………………………………………………..……..….12
Procedure ………………………………………………………………………………………..……....13-14
Flowchart Diagram ………………………………………………………………………..……..….16
3 RESULTS AND DISCUSSION ………………………………………………………………………………………17
4 SUMMARY, CONCLUSION, RECOMMENDATION
Summary of Findings ……………………………………………………………………….…….….23
 vi

Conclusion …………………………………………………………………………………………….…….…. 23

Recommendation ………………………………………………………………………………………….…. 24
REFERENCES ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….….25-27
APPENDICES ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. ix
A. Letter of Approval………………………………………………………………………….…………. ix

B. Validity and Reliability ………………………………………………………………………….x

C. Documentation ……………………………………………………………………………………………………. xi

D. CURRICULUM VITAE ……………………………………………………………………………… xvi-xxvi

 vii

LIST OF TABLES

Table Page

1. Chemical Analysis of Activated …………………………………………………………………… 17

Carbon from Guava (Psidium Guajava)
Branches as a water Filter

LIST OF FIGURES
 viii

Figure Page

Conceptual Framework

1 The Interplay between Variable.……………………………………………………………………….5-6

Research Paradigm

2 Key Components of the Scientific Paradigm. ……………………………………….6

Flowchart

3 Flowchart Diagram of the Procedure …………………………………………………………….16

Showing the Step-by-step Process.

Process

4.1 Turbidity ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….18

4.2 Alkalinity ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….19

4.3 pH Level …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….20

4.4 Total Dissolved Solids ……………………………………………………………………………………….21

 Chapter 1

THE PROBLEM AND REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

This chapter focuses on the background of the study, its

objectives, the statement of the problem and hypothesis, the

theories and concepts that revolved around the topic, the

project’s scope and limitations and its significance to the

community, the definition of terms used in the study, and review

of related literature.

Background of the Study

According to Environmental Protection Agency (2019),

increasing pressures on water resources have led to greater water

scarcity and a growing demand for alternative water sources.

Onsite non-potable water reuse is one solution that can help

communities reclaim, recycle, and then reuse unfiltered river

water for non-drinking water purposes. However, non-potable water

is not appropriate for human consumption, it can be used in a

myriad of other applications, such as doing laundry, toilet and

urinal flushing and cooling tower make up water (OPUS, 2020)

where turbidity, alkalinity, pH level and total dissolved solids

are tested.
 2

Locally, in the Philippines, the adverse impact of water

pollution costs great in the economy. The government continues

its fight against worsening water pollution because access to

clean and adequate water remains an acute seasonal problem in

urban and coastal areas in the Philippines.

According to the Water Environment Partnership in Asia

(2003), “Just over a third or 36 percent of the country’s river

systems are classified as sources of public water supply. Up to

58 percent of groundwater samples is contaminated with coliform

and needs treatment.” Nearly 2.2 million metric tons of organic

pollution are produced annually. Where, water pollution is

dominated by some sectors namely domestic (48 percent),

agricultural (37 percent), and industrial (15 percent).

People have long used activated carbon as a natural water

filter because it can interact and adsorb a range of toxins,

chemicals and other pathogens that can be found in water. That is

why, in commercial setting, such as waste-management centers and

operators, they often use activated carbon granules for one part

of the filtration process in order to purify water from toxins

and impurities. Moreover, a study found that water filtration

system that uses carbon has the tendency to remove as much as 100

percent of fluoride in unfiltered water samples after 6 months of

installation.
 3

Activated carbon from guava branches can adsorb by a method

of filtration that removes contaminants and impurities. Guava

branches were used for the process of the activation of carbon

since the branches were accessible and it does not harm the whole

tree. Note that adsorption is different from absorption.

Adsorption binds impurities chemically on the surface of the

carbon filter rather than physically absorbing them (Aslam,

2005). Furthermore, it is used in water filtering systems due to

its excellent adsorption capacity. The pores of activated carbon

trapped and locked water contaminants during the water filtering

process (Eaton, 2005). However, other compounds, depending on

their molecular weight and polarity, are not attracted to the

carbon, and so pass through the filter (Wilson, 2007). Though

impurities are kept in the filter, it is important to replace the

water filter every 12 months to ensure it continues to work as it

should. Furthermore, it is less expensive and organic, making it

environmentally friendly.

Research Objectives

In accordance with the needs of the study, the following

specific objectives were determined:

1. To determine if the Activated Carbon from Guava Branch

was effective for filtration.

 4

2. To compare the results of the water analysis in the

untreated river water before and after filtration vs. the

Philippine National Standards for Drinking Water (PNSDW) values?

Philippine National Standards for Drinking Water of 2017,

also known as PNSDW, is the standards that is meant to direct

waterworks officials, staff and private individuals or

institutions providing water to the city and other health and

sanitation authorities (Lomboy, 2017).

Statement of the Problem

On this context, the study conducted water filtration to

assess the turbidity, alkalinity, pH level, and total dissolved

solids of the untreated river water. Specifically, this study

aimed to answer the following questions:

1. Is the Activated carbon from Guava branch effective for

filtration?

2. Are the results of the water analysis of untreated river

water before and after filtration vs. the Philippine National

Standards for Drinking Water (PNSDW) values acceptable?

 5

Theoretical Framework

Siong, et al. (2013) stated that “Activated carbon has been

used as a water filtering medium for purification,” since it is

widely used for removal of impurities in water due to its high

capacity of concentration of such compound, “arising from their

large surface area and porosity.” Guava branches were used for

the process of the activation of carbon since branches were easy

to get from the tree without harming the whole guava tree in the

process. This study focused on the effectivity of activated

carbon as a water filter. It also discussed the changes on

water’s selected parameters, specifically turbidity, alkalinity,

pH level, and total dissolved solids.

Conceptual Framework

The independent variable of the study was the activated

carbon from guava branches while the intervening variable was the

amount of activated carbon from guava branches. The dependent

variable was the outcome of the test sample.

 6

Activated Amount of
carbon from activated Outcome of
guava carbon from the test
branches guava sample
branches

Independent variable Intervening variable Dependent variable

Figure 1. The Interplay between Variables

Research Paradigm

Input Process Output

Activated Pour the

carbon from untreated river
guava branches, water into the Outcome of the
untreated river activated test sample.
water. carbon from
guava branches.

Figure 2. Key Components of the Scientific Paradigm

Scope and Limitation

The researchers collected guava branches at Barangay

Salvacion, Butuan City. The making of the activated carbon was

done at Purok-2 Barangay Salvacion, Butuan City. The examination

and testing of the turbidity, alkalinity, pH level, and total

dissolved solids of the untreated river water was done at the

laboratory of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).

 7

While the time effectivity of the activated carbon was not

considered, the research was limited to the water filter activity

of the activated carbon from guava branches.

Significance of the Study

In this study, the researchers believed that the following

would benefit from the results:

Household living nearby rivers. This study would help the

people in a community of nearby rivers to have sustainable source

of clear water for any non-potable uses.

Future Researchers. This study would help these researchers

to continue more discussions and discoveries to this type of

field of study.

Definition of Terms

The following terms were operationally defined for the

purpose of clarity.

Activated Carbon. It is a fine black odorless and tasteless

powder made from wood or other materials that have been exposed

to very high temperatures in an airless environment.

Adsorption. It is the process of adhesion of molecules of

liquid or gases onto the surface of a solid’s particle.

 8

Alkalinity. It is a chemical measurement of a water’s

ability to neutralize acids. Alkalinity is also a measure of a

water’s buffering capacity or its ability to resist changes in pH

upon the addition of acids or bases.

Filtration. It is a physical, biological or chemical

operation that separates solids matter and fluid from a mixture

with a filter medium that has a complex structure through which

only the fluid can pass.

pH. The quantitative measure of the acidity or basicity of

aqueous or other liquid solutions.

Total Dissolved Solids (TDS). This refers to the quantity of

minerals, metals, organic matter, and salts dissolved in mg/L in

a certain volume of water. The quality and purity of water,

especially in water purification systems, is directly linked to

it.

Turbidity. It is the cloudiness or haziness of a fluid

caused by suspended solids that are usually invisible to the

naked eye. The measurement of turbidity is an important test when

trying to determine the quality of water.

 9

Review of Related Literature

This chapter includes the ideas, finished thesis,

realization or conclusions and others. Those that are included in

this chapter helps in familiarizing information that are relevant

and similar to the present study.

Activated Carbon as Water Filter

According Bhatnagar, et al. (2013), Activated carbon has

been identified as one of the oldest and most used adsorbents for

the removal of organic and inorganic contaminants in the

treatment of water and wastewater. According to CharGrow (2019),

carbonized wood or charcoal has an exceptional combination of

properties that makes it the carbon of choice for several

applications. Wood-based carbon has a high surface area and is

extremely reactive and highly conductive. As for coal, a fossil

fuel made entirely of carbon, there is no sulfur or mercury in

the bio-based carbon and very little nitrogen in it. Depending on

the type of wood used the pyrolysis process and the post-

production handling, such as screening and washing, the ash

content associated with wood-based carbons can vary greatly. It

is an extremely porous substance that attracts a wide range of

toxic chemicals and retains them. Stated by Kadam et al. (2018),

“Activated carbon is a particularly treated material which

undergoes the chemical process to increase the adsorption

 10

capabilities of the material.” Activated carbon has a slight

electropositive charge applied, making it more attractive to

substances and contaminants. As the water goes through the

positively charged carbon surface, the negative ions of

pollutants are drawn to the surface of the carbon granules. It

eliminates chlorine, sediments, and organic volatile compounds

that cause pollution and bad stench and improves taste (Adhikari

et al., 2017). This is why it is frequently used to improve the

smell, and presence of water (Université Laval, 2006).

Non-Potable Uses of Water

Rainwater, reclaimed/recycled water, and gray water are non-

potable sources of water. Although non-potable water is not

suitable for human use it can be used in a number of other uses,

such as bathing, bathroom and urinal flushing and water making up

a cooling tower (OPUS, 2020).

Alkalinity and pH Level

Alkalinity is a measure of water's acid-neutralizing

potential and is typically measured by titration to the acid-base

reaction endpoint against sulfuric acid (Environmental

Geochemistry, 2008). The pH is a temperature-like determined

value based on a given scale. This implies that the pH of water

is not a physical parameter that can be measured in quantity or

 11

concentration. Rather it is a number between 0 and 14 that

determines how acidic or basic a water body is on a logarithmic

scale. The smaller the volume, the more acidic the water is. The

higher the number, the more fundamental it is. A pH of 7 was

known as neutral. The logarithmic scale indicates that when

counting down, each number below 7 was 10 times more acidic than

the previous number. Likewise, each number was 10 times simpler

than the previous number when counting up above 7 (Fondriest,

2013).
 Chapter 2

METHODOLOGY

This chapter includes the research design, the research

procedures, and the flow chart diagram of the study.

Research Design

The research study used a Descriptive Research Design, in

which it was to observe, describe, and document aspects of a

certain situation as it occurs naturally (Dulock, 1993). As

stated by Dulock (1993), it was also “to discover associations or

relationships between or among selected variables.” The research

study was involved the comparison of the water analysis from the

untreated river water before and after being filtered to the

water standards provided by the PNSDW.

Procedure

Carbonization of Guava Branches

The researchers dug a hole depending on the shape of the

mini barrel. It was assured that it covered half of the mini

barrel, as they put space allowance so that the firewood would be

placed in there. Then, the researchers put all of the guava

branches into the mini barrel and closed it, and placed the mini

barrel (with some kindling and firewood) into the hole. Once the

fire started on the bottom of the mini barrel, the researchers

 13

used coconut shells to keep the fire sustained. It was assured

that it had a good flame and plenty of heat. Then, the

researchers emptied all of the firewood and coconut shells to the

igniting fire in the hole that surrounded the barrel and allowed

the flames to burn it all. They waited until the guava branches

started to blacken before proceeded to the next steps, and

allowed the wood to smolder in the barrel for around 5-7 hours

with a temperature of 600 degrees Celsius, that was determined

through approximate flame color when the woodfire burned. The

researchers double-checked that the guava branches were done

burning and completely carbonized before removing it from the

barrel.

Carbon Activation

The researchers grinded the carbonized guava into a powder

substance. The carbon was needed to be saturated with lemon

extract in which it would be increased pore size. They made sure

the carbon was completely dry before it was mixed with anything

else. Combined the lemon extract and water in a 2:1 ratio,

stirred together the carbonized powder progressively into the

lemon extract solution; gradually stirred to let the extract

accumulated the powdered carbon until mixture reached paste

consistency. The bowl should be covered, let the carbon stand-by

for 24 hours, and allow it to sit untouched. The researchers

 14

turned the heat of the oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit, and

scattered the carbon in a single layer on the baking sheet, then

cooked the carbon for another 3 hours to activate it.

Making of Filtration Container

To made the filtration container, the researchers cut a 1.5-

liter plastic bottles in half, separated the newly cut bottom

part and the top part of the plastic bottle. Then, cut 3 pieces

of used clean cotton cloth in about 6-inch diameter and put the

cotton cloth above the mouth of the newly cut plastic bottles.

Produced some holes on the cap of the plastic bottle (about 5

holes) and then attached it to the clothed mouth of the plastic

bottle tightly. Next, the cloth was covered over the opening of

the bottom part of the bottle then taped it or tied it to make it

tight. The researchers did the same process and made another 2

pieces.

Filtration Process

The researchers started the filtration process by preparing

the activated carbon filter, one empty filtration container and 4

bottle containers filled with untreated river water. In a

filtration container, the researchers poured the untreated river

water into the activated carbon filter. They waited for a while

for the water to seep into the activated carbon, then let the
 15

water drip from the filter. They did this for the other three

containers.

Evaluation of Test Samples

After the filtration process, the researchers sent four (4)

containers of test samples of filtered water from 0 grams, 20

grams, 70 grams, and 100 grams of activated carbon to the

laboratory of the DOST – Regional Standards and Testing

Laboratory for the examination and testing of turbidity,

alkalinity, pH level, and total dissolved solids respectively.

 16

Flow Chart Diagram of the Procedure

Guava Chopped into
smaller Carbonization
Branches pieces and
Dried

Paste Mixture of Crushed and

Consistency Carbon and grinded
solution

Leave it Heat Activated Untreated

untouched Activation Carbon river
within 24 at 300°F water
hours

Illustration:
Adsorption

Filtration

Filtered Water
 17

Figure 3. Flowchart Diagram of the Procedures showing the step-

by-step process.
 Chapter 3

RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS

Analysis of water quality was of utmost importance to check

the sustainability of the water source for a designated or

specific use. Several water quality parameters are analyzed and

compared to standard values to determine the acceptability of the

water source (Roy, 2018). Below are the results of the water

analysis of the parameters given by the DOST, then compared to

the water standards provided by the PNSDW.

Table 1. The Chemical Analysis of Activated Carbon from Guava

(Psidium guajava) Branches as an Alternative Water Filter
SAMPLE Turbidity Alkalinity pH Level Total
Dissolved
Solids
0 grams of
activated 3.35 NTU 234 ppm 7.00 297 mg/L
carbon
Treatment 1:
20 grams of
2.56 NTU 228 ppm 6.99 280 mg/L
activated
carbon
Treatment 2:
70 grams of
activated 2.67 NTU 219 ppm 6.66 269 mg/L
carbon
Treatment 3:
100 grams of
activated 2.96 NTU 213 ppm 6.48 231 mg/L
carbon
 18

In Table No. 1, the amount of turbidity for Treatment No. 1

was 3.35 NTU, 234 ppm in alkalinity, 7.00 in pH level, and 297

mg/L in total dissolved solids. For Treatment No. 1 turbidity,

there was 2.56 NTU present, 228 ppm in alkalinity, 6.99 in pH

level, and 280 mg/L in total dissolved solids. For Treatment No.

2 turbidity, there was 2.67 NTU present, 219 ppm in alkalinity,

6.66 in pH level, and 269 mg/L in total dissolved solids. For

Treatment No. 3 turbidity, there was 2.96 NTU present, 213 ppm in

alkalinity, 6.48 in pH level, and 231mg/L in total dissolved

solids. Note that this table was from the results given by the

laboratory of DOST.

Figure 4.1 Amount of Turbidity Measured

Total Turbidity
In
Turbidity (NTU)

3.35
2.95
2.56 2.57

No Activated Carbon Filter Treatment No. 1 Treatment No. 2 Treatment No. 3

Figure 4.1, for the untreated river water (without activated

carbon filter) the turbidity was measured 3.35 NTU. For the

filtered river water samples, with 20 grams of activated carbon

 19

(AC), it was measured 2.26 NTU; with 70 grams of AC, it was

measured 2.67 NTU; and with an AC filter of 100 grams, there was

a turbidity of 2.96 NTU that was measured.

Figure 4.2 Amount of Total Alkalinity Measured

In Total Alkalinity Figure

Alkalinity (ppm)
of

234

228

219

213

No Activated Carbon Filter Tretment No. 1 Treatment No. 2 Treatment No. 3

234 ppm. For the filtered river water samples, with 20 grams of

Activated Carbon (AC) had an alkalinity of 228 ppm; with 70 grams

of AC, it had 219 ppm; and with 100 grams of AC, the alkalinity

being measured was 213 ppm.

 20

Figure 4.3 Amount of pH Level Measured

I n Total
F pH iLevel g u r e 4

pH Level

7 6.99

6.66

6.48

No Activated Carbon Filter Treatment No. 1 Treatment No. 2 Treament No. 3

river water - with zero grams of activated carbon (AC) – was 7.

For the filtered river water samples, with 20 grams of AC

contained 6.99 pH level; for 70 grams of AC, there was a pH level

of 6.66; whereas in the filtered river water with 100 grams of

AC, contained a pH level of 6.48.

Figure 4.4 Amount of Total Dissolved Solids Measured

 21

I n Total Dissolved
F Solid
i (mg/L)
g u r e

Total Dissolved Solid (mg/L)

297
280
269
231

No Activated Carbon Filter Treatment No. 1 Treatment No. 2 Treament No. 3

sample with zero grams of activated carbon (AC) contained 297

mg/L of Total Dissolved Solids (TDS). For the filtered river

water samples, with 20 grams of AC contained 280 mg/L of TDS;

with 70 grams of AC contained 269 mg/L of TDS; and 100 grams of

AC contained 231 mg/L of TDS. Compared to the average TDS value

for mg/L found in river waters, the TDS particles were higher

when it was being filtered with Activated Carbon. Yet, the amount

of TDS particles from the untreated river water sample (without

AC) to 20 grams, 70 grams and 100 grams with AC decreased.

Comparison of the Test Results to PNSDW values

 22

Based on the Philippine National Standards for Drinking

Water (PNSDW) of 2017, the standard of Turbidity would be 5.0

NTU, pH level would be a scale of 6.5-8.5, as Total Dissolved

Solids would be 500 mg/L. For Alkalinity, it was mentioned by a

different institution – Department of Public Health from

Illinois, USA – that the standard for drinking water would be

around 30-400 ppm.

For the untreated river water (before filtration), some of

the values did not reach the standards such as the Turbidity and

Total Dissolved Solids. Whereas for the filtered river water

samples (with 20 grams, 70 grams and 100 grams of Activated

Carbon from Guava Branches), the values did not reach the

standards such as Turbidity and Total Dissolved Solids.

Therefore, the parameters of the test results were not accepted

for the PNSDW standard of values.

 Chapter 4
SUMMARY OF FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

The goal of this chapter was to provide summary and

conclusion based from the results and analysis of the data and to

make recommendations to the study for future researchers. The

contents were briefly summarized.

Summary of Findings

After the experiment was examined, the results were gathered

by comparing the test results of the untreated river water before

and after filtration to the Philippine National Standards for

Drinking Water (PNSDW) of 2017 values. It was revealed that there

was an effectivity in the river water activity before and after

filtration using activated carbon from Guava branches, since

there were changes that was observed. Upon comparing the test

results to the PNSDW values, it was revealed that the results did

not reach the standards being provided.

Conclusion

Based on the findings of the study, the following

conclusions were drawn.

Upon completing the data being gathered, the researchers

were able to identify the parameters’ (such as turbidity,

 24

alkalinity, pH level and total dissolved solids) presence in both

untreated river water and filtered river water, yet the findings

did not reach the standards that was provided by the PNSDW of

2017. The activity of the untreated river water before and after

filtration was observed, therefore, it was revealed to be

effective. However, the test results of the untreated river water

(before and after filtration) using activated carbon from guava

branches was, therefore, not accepted.

Recommendations

Since the researchers only tested the water’s turbidity,

alkalinity, pH level and total dissolved solids, the researchers

recommended to consider testing other parameters, such as

salinity, for future studies.

In addition, for the future researchers, the researchers of

this study would recommend using “filtering paper” instead of a

piece of cloth in order to achieve optimum results. The

researchers would also recommend utilizing other methods of

filtering and consider the time of the filter’s effectivity,

since this will have a significant impact on the outcome for the

filtered water.
 25

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Environmental Geochemistry. (2008). “Alkalinity.” Science Direct.

Retrieved from https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/earth-and-
planetary-sciences/alkalinity
 26

Environmental Protection Agency. (2019). Retrieved from

https://www.epa.gov/water-research/onsite-non-potable-water-
reuse-research

Fondriest Environmental, Inc. (2013). pH of Water. Fundamentals

of Environmental Measurements.
Retrieved from https://www.fondriest.com/environmental-
measurements/parameters/water-quality/ph/

Kadam, A.P., Sawant, A.A., Varghese, S., Turate, S.A. (2018).

Comparision of Household Grey water Treatment using Slow Sand
Filter and Slow Sand Aided with Activated Charcoal Filter.
International Journal of Innovative Science and Research
Technology ISSN No:-2456-2165

Lomboy, M., Riego de Dios, J., Magtibay, B., Quizon, R., Molina,
V., Fadrilan-Camacho, V., See, J., Enoveso, A., Barbosa, L.,
Agravante, A. Updating national standards for drinking-water: a
Philippine experience. J Water Health. doi:
https://doi.org/10.2166/wh.2016.177

OPUS. (2020). System Non-Potable Water.

http://opuspiping.org/application.aspx?id=-6228344935996635278

Popek, E. (2018). Chapter 4 - Practical Approach to Sampling.

Sampling and Analysis of Environmental Chemical Pollutants
(Second Edition). Pages 145-225. https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-
12-803202-2.00004-5

Roy, R. and Majumder, M. (2018): A Quick Prediction of

Hardness from Water Quality Parameters by Artificial Neural
Network. International Journal of Environment and
Sustainable Development, 17(2/3): 247-257.

Siong, Y., Atabaki, M. & Idris, J. (2013). Performance of

activated carbon in water filters. Retrieved from Research Gate
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_activated_carbon_in_water_filters
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Significantly Reduces Chemicals in Tap Water. ScienceDaily.
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db.net/policies/state/philippines/overview.htm

Wilson, K. S. (2007). Floating filter Hold: US20080164223A1

*2007-01-052008-07-10
 ix

APPENDIX A
Letter of Approval

Republic of the Philippines

Department of Education
Caraga Administrative Region
Butuan City Division
AGUSAN NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL
SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL
T. Sanchez Street, Butuan City

February 09, 2021

RUTH A. CASTROMAYOR
Principal IV, SHS- Assistant Principal
Agusan National High School
Butuan City

Madam:

The undersigned were the Grade 12
doing a study on “Activated Carbon
Alternative Water Filter”. This is
in Capstone Research. The subjects
the Agusan River.
students of this institution and currently
from Guava (Psidium Guajava) Branches as an
in partial fulfillment of the requirements
of the study include the water samples from

Anent to this, we would like to ask permission for the conduct of the study by
going to the Department of Science and Technology – Regional Standards and
Testing Laboratory, located at CSU Campus, Ampayon, Butuan City.

Thank you and we are looking forward for your approval of this request.

Respectfully yours,

Marlon P. Balbalosa Alliyah Joy Oropa

Shairah Mae D. Delos Santos Alexia Martha S. Peligro
Carlos Miguel S. Dimla Aiko T. Uto
Ryan Daniel P. Gragasin
Kristine Mae M. Labador
Gerald John A. Mesa
Dannie Ann S. Montes
Janvic M. Namalata

Noted by: Recommending Approval:

MARICAR GONZALES RUTH B. CASTROMAYOR

Capstone Adviser Principal IV, SHS- Assistant Principal
 x

APPENDIX B
Validity and Reliability

REPORT OF CHEMICAL ANALYSIS

Request Reference No. : R13-022021-CHE-0029
Location of Testing : In-house
Date Submitted : February 9, 2021
Date of Analysis : February 9 – 14, 2021
Date of Issue : February 15, 2021
Sample Submitted : River Water
Submitted by : Dannie Ann S. Montes
Address : Agusan National High School – A.D. Curato St., Butuan City,
Agusan del Norte
Contact Number : 09388550725

Sample Code Sample Parameter Result

CHE – 0037 River Water with 20g of pH 6.99*

Activated Carbon
Turbidity 2.56 NTU*
Total Alkalinity 228 ppm*
Total Dissolved Solids 280 mg/L

River Water with 70g of

CHE – 0038 pH 6.66*
Activated Carbon
Turbidity 2.67 NTU*
Total Alkalinity 219 ppm*
Total Dissolved Solids 269 mg/L

River Water with 100g of

CHE – 0039 Activated Carbon pH 6.48*
 xi

Turbidity 2.96 NTU*

Total Alkalinity 213 ppm*
Total Dissolved Solids 231 mg/L
No Filter of Activated
Carbon
CHE – 0040 pH 7.00*
Turbidity 3.35 NTU*
Total Alkalinity 234 ppm*
Total Dissolved Solids 297 mg/L
xii
xiii
 xiv

APPENDIX C
Documentation
xv
 xvi

CURRICULUM VITAE

I. Personal Information
Name: Marlon P. Balbalosa
Birthdate: August 17, 2002
Age: 18 years old
Address: P-4 Amamaylan Baan Km3,
Butuan City
Parents: Mr. Martin Balbalosa
Mrs. Belinda Balbalosa
E-mail address: marlonspalacio17@gmail.com

II. Educational Background

Elementary: Florencio R. Sibayan Central Elementary School
(2014-2015) Grade 6: 9th Honorable Mention

Secondary: Agusan National High School

(2015-2016) Grade 7: With High Honors
(2016-2017) Grade 8: With High Honors
(2017-2018) Grade 9: With Honors
(2018-2019) Grade 10: With High Honors

Agusan National High School – Senior High School

(2019-2020) Grade 11: With Honors
 xvii

I. Personal Information
Name: Shairah Mae D. Delos Santos
Birthdate: October 07, 2002
Age: 18 years Old
Address: P-7 Brgy. 14 Limaha, Butuan City
Parents: Mr. Ruel A. Delos Santos
Mrs. Emelyn D. Delos Santos
E-mail Address: shairahmaed40@gmail.com

II. Educational Background

Elementary: Butuan Central Elementary School
(2014-2015) Grade 6: 4th Honorable Mention

Secondary: Agusan National High School

(2015-2016) Grade 7: With High Honors
(2016-2017) Grade 8: With Honors
(2017-2018) Grade 9: With Honors
(2018-2019) Grade 10: With Honors

Agusan National High School – Senior High School

(2019-2020) Grade 11: With Honors
 xviii

I. Personal Information
Name: Carlos Miguel S. Dimla
Birthdate: July 2, 2002
Age: 18 years old
Address: #460 Arujville Subd., Libertad,
Butuan City
Parents: Mr. Eduardo L. Dimla
Mrs. Remedios S. Dimla
E-mail address: dimlacarlosmiguel@gmail.com

II. EDUCATION BACKGROUND

Elementary: Butuan Christian Community School
(2014-2015) Grade 6: Salutatorian

Secondary: Butuan Christian Community School

(2015-2016) Grade 7: With High Honors
(2016-2017) Grade 8: With High Honors
(2017-2018) Grade 9: With High Honors
(2018-2019) Grade 10: With High Honors

Agusan National High School – Senior High School

(2019-2020) Grade 11: With Honors
 xix

I. Personal Information
Name: Ryan Daniel P. Gragasin
Birthdate: November 13, 2003
Age: 17 years old
Address: P-2A Salvacion, Butuan City
Parents: Mr. Miguelito Q. Gragasin
Mrs. Emma Rose P. Gragasin
E-mail address: ryangragasin00@gmail.com

II. Educational Background

Elementary: Salvacion Elementary School
(2014-2015) Grade 6: Valedictorian

Secondary: Agusan National High School

(2015-2016) Grade 7: With Honors
(2016-2017) Grade 8: With Honors
(2017-2018) Grade 9: With Honors
(2018-2019) Grade 10: With Honors

Agusan National High School – Senior High School

(2019-2020) Grade 11: With Honors
 xx

I. Personal Information
Name: Kristine Mae M. Labador
Birthdate: May 21, 2002
Age: 18 years old
Address: Emily Homes Subd. Phase-1,
Libertad, Butuan City
Parents: Mr. Oscar O. Labador
Mrs. Teresita M. Labador
E-mail address: montillakres@gmail.com

II. Educational Background

Elementary: Cornerstone Christian Progressive School
(2014-2015) Grade 6: Valedictorian

Secondary: Agusan National High School

(2015-2016) Grade 7: With Honors
(2016-2017) Grade 8: With Honors
(2017-2018) Grade 9: With Honors
(2018-2019) Grade 10: With Honors

Agusan National High School – Senior High School

(2019-2020) Grade 11: With Honors
 xxi

I. Personal Information
Name: Gerald John A. Mesa
Birthdate: February 23, 2003
Age: 17 years old
Address: P-2 Ampayon, Butuan City
Parents: Mr. Genaro J. Mesa, Jr.
Mrs. Jonalisa A. Mesa
E-mail address: mesageraldjohn23@gmail.com

II. Educational Background

Elementary: Ampayon Central Elementary School
(2014-2015) Grade 6: 2nd Honors

Secondary: Agusan National High School

(2015-2016) Grade 7
(2016-2017) Grade 8
(2017-2018) Grade 9: With Honors
(2018-2019) Grade 10: With Honors

Agusan National High School – Senior High School

(2019-2020) Grade 11: With Honors
 xxii

I. Personal Information
Name: Dannie Ann S. Montes
Birthdate: October 31, 2001
Age: 19 years old
Address: Purok-Repolyo, Golden Ribbon,
Butuan City
Parents: Mr. Zaldy P. Bracelete
Mrs. Analiza Barcelete
E-mail address: dannieann1031@gmail.com

II. Educational Background

Elementary: La Paz Central SPED School
(2014-2015) Grade 6: Salutatorian

Secondary: La Paz National High School

(2015-2016) Grade 7: With High Honors
(2016-2017) Grade 8: With High Honors
(2017-2018) Grade 9: With High Honors

Agusan National High School

(2018-2019) Grade 10: With High Honors

Agusan National High School – Senior High School

(2019-2020) Grade 11: With Honors
 xxiii

I. Personal Information
Name: Janvic M. Namalata
Birthdate: July 22, 2002
Age: 18 years old
Address: Ira housing Baan km.3,
Butuan City
Parents: Mr. Nicolas Namalata
Mrs. Irene Namalata
E-mail address: janvicnamalata1728@gmail.com

II. Educational Background

Elementary: Alviola Village Central Elementary School
(2014-2015) Grade 6: 1st Honor

Secondary: Agusan National High School

(2015-2016) Grade 7: With Honors
(2016-2017) Grade 8: With Honors
(2017-2018) Grade 9: With Honors
(2018-2019) Grade 10: With Honors

Agusan National High School – Senior High School

(2019-2020) Grade 11: With Honors
 xxiv

I. Personal Information
Name: Alliyah Joy Oropa
Birthdate: February 28, 2003
Age: 17 years old
Address: 317 R. Calo Ext.,
Butuan City
Parents: Mr. Jonathan T. Sueco
Ms. Roquilla B. Oropa
E-mail: alliyahjoyoropa@gmail.com

II. Educational Background

Elementary: Butuan Central Elementary School
(2014-2015) Grade 6: Special Award

Secondary: Agusan National High School

(2015-2016) Grade 7
(2016-2017) Grade 8: With Honors
(2017-2018) Grade 9: Special Award
(2018-2019) Grade 10: With Honors

Agusan National High School – Senior High School

(2019-2020) Grade 11: With Honors
 xxv

I. Personal Information
Name: Alexia Martha S. Peligro
Birthdate: May 3, 2003
Age: 17 years old
Address: Emily Homes Subd. Phase-1,
Libertad, Butuan City
Parents: Mr. Marnieto B. Peligro
Ms. Stella A. Supapo
E-mail address: alexiasupapo@gmail.com

II. Educational Background

Elementary: Philippine Electronics and Communication Institute
of Technology – Basic Education
(2014-2015) Grade 6: 2nd Honors

Secondary: Agusan National High School

(2015-2016) Grade 7: With Honors
(2016-2017) Grade 8
(2017-2018) Grade 9: With Honors
(2018-2019) Grade 10: With Honors

Agusan National High School – Senior High School

(2019-2020) Grade 11
 xxvi

I. Personal Information
Name: Aiko T. Uto
Birthdate: November 17, 2002
Age: 18 years old
Address: P-2. Brgy. Golden Ribbon,
Butuan City
Parents: Mr. Shuji Uto
Mrs. Maryjul Uto
E-mail address: utoaiko@gmail.com

II. Educational Background

Elementary: Butuan Central Elementary School
(2014-2015) Grade 6: 4th Honorable Mention

Secondary: Agusan National High School

(2015-2016) Grade 7: With Honors
(2016-2017) Grade 8: With Honors
(2017-2018) Grade 9: With Honors
(2018-2019) Grade 10: With Honors

Agusan National High School – Senior High School

(2019-2020) Grade 11: With Honors