“Exploring Napier Grass (Pennisetum purpureum) as a Natural Fabric”

Introduction:

Napier Grass (Pennisetum purpureum), a perennial tropical grass native to Africa, has gained significant
attention as a potential natural fiber due to its abundant availability and desirable mechanical properties. Natural
fibers derived from plant sources have garnered increasing interest in recent years as sustainable alternatives to
synthetic fibers, which contribute to environmental degradation and resource depletion (Ali et al., 2020; Faruk et al.,
2012). The exploration of Napier Grass as a natural fiber holds promise for various industrial applications, including
construction materials, textiles, and composites.

Tensile strength is a crucial mechanical property that determines the ability of a fiber to withstand pulling
or stretching forces without breaking. Assessing the tensile strength of Napier Grass fibers is essential to evaluate
their suitability for different applications and compare them with existing natural and synthetic fibers. Tensile
testing provides valuable insights into the mechanical behavior of fibers, enabling the identification of their potential
limitations and advantages.

Several studies have investigated the mechanical properties of natural fibers derived from various plant
sources, such as jute, hemp, and sisal (Ali et al., 2020; Faruk et al., 2012; Sanjay et al., 2017). However, limited
research has been conducted on Napier Grass fibers, particularly regarding their tensile strength and potential
applications. Exploring the tensile strength of Napier Grass fibers is crucial for establishing their mechanical
performance and understanding their potential utility in different sectors.

This research aims to assess the tensile strength of Napier Grass fibers through rigorous tensile testing
using a universal testing machine (UTM). The study will involve the preparation of Napier Grass fiber specimens,
followed by their mounting in the UTM for applying uniaxial tensile forces until failure. The tensile strength data
obtained will be analyzed to determine the average tensile strength and assess the variability within the fiber
population.

Understanding the tensile strength of Napier Grass fibers will contribute to the existing body of knowledge
on natural fibers, providing valuable insights for potential applications in industries such as construction, textiles,
and composites. Furthermore, this research will pave the way for future investigations on optimizing fiber extraction
methods, enhancing fiber properties, and exploring potential treatments to improve the mechanical performance of
Napier Grass fibers.

By utilizing Napier Grass as a natural fiber, sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives can be developed to
reduce the reliance on synthetic fibers and promote a more environmentally conscious approach to material usage.
The findings of this research will contribute to the ongoing efforts towards the development of sustainable materials
and support the transition towards a greener and more sustainable future.

Question:
What is the average tensile strength and breaking point of Napier grass-based natural fabric using Universal Testing
Machine (UTC)

Is there a significant difference in the tensile strength between Napier grass-based fiber and commonly used natural
fibers such as cotton, linen, and silk?

Hypothesis
Null: There is no significant difference in the tensile strength between Napier grass-based fiber and commonly used
natural fibers.

Alternative: There is a significant difference in the tensile strength between Napier grass-based fiber and commonly
used natural fibers.
“The Utilization of Mango Tree Sapwood (Mangifera indica) as a Sustainable and Natural Filter for Greywater
Recycled Irrigation in Home Gardens”

Introduction:
Water scarcity and environmental concerns have driven the exploration of sustainable solutions for water
management and conservation. Greywater recycling, the process of treating and reusing wastewater generated from
household activities, has emerged as a promising approach to alleviate the strain on freshwater resources. However,
conventional filtration systems used in greywater recycling often rely on energy-intensive and chemical-based
processes, raising concerns about their ecological footprint.

To address these challenges, researchers and engineers have turned their attention to natural filtration
methods that utilize locally available and renewable resources. This study focuses on the potential of mango tree
sapwood (Mangifera indica) as a sustainable and natural filter for greywater recycled irrigation in home gardens.

Mango trees are widely cultivated across tropical and subtropical regions and are valued for their fruits.
However, the utilization of mango tree by-products, such as the sapwood, has received relatively less attention.
Sapwood, the outermost layer of the tree trunk, possesses unique anatomical characteristics, including xylem vessels
and ray cells, which contribute to its water transport and filtration properties.

Previous studies have explored the use of sapwood from various tree species, such as pine and cedar, for
water purification purposes (Smith et al., 2017; Wang et al., 2019). These studies have demonstrated the
effectiveness of sapwood in removing contaminants, including organic compounds, heavy metals, and
microorganisms, from water sources.

By harnessing the natural filtration capabilities of mango tree sapwood, this research aims to investigate its
potential as an environmentally friendly and low-cost filter for greywater treatment. The study will evaluate the
efficiency of sapwood filters in removing impurities, such as suspended solids, nutrients, and pathogens, from
greywater. Additionally, the impact of sapwood filtration on the quality of treated water and its suitability for
irrigation purposes in home gardens will be assessed.

The findings of this research can contribute to the development of sustainable and accessible technologies
for greywater recycling, particularly in regions where mango trees are abundantly available. Moreover, the
utilization of mango tree sapwood as a natural filter can offer a range of benefits, including reduced energy
consumption, decreased reliance on chemical additives, and the promotion of circular economy principles through
the valorization of a commonly overlooked by-product.

Through this investigation, I aim to advance our understanding of the potential applications of mango tree
sapwood in sustainable water management practices and contribute to the broader goal of achieving water security
and environmental sustainability.

Question

What is the average bacterial and microbial population in greywater before the utilization of mango tree sapwood
as a natural filter for greywater recycled irrigation in home gardens, as determined by bacteriological analysis?

What is the average bacterial and microbial population in greywater after the utilization of mango tree sapwood as
a natural filter for greywater recycled irrigation in home gardens, as determined by bacteriological analysis?

Is there a significant difference between the mango tree sapwood filter and activated carbon fiber in terms of their
effectiveness in removing microbes and bacteria?
Hypothesis

Null: There is no significant difference between the mango tree sapwood filter and activated carbon filter in terms of
their effectiveness in removing contaminants from greywater.

Alternative: There is a significant difference between the mango tree sapwood filter and activated carbon filter in
terms of their effectiveness in removing contaminants from greywater

Causal: Mango tree sapwood's anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties, combined with its high porosity and surface
area, make it an effective filter for greywater recycled irrigation in home gardens.

“Sensory Acceptability of Sunflower (Helianthus annuus) Seed-Based Energy Drink”

Introduction

With the increasing heat index in the Philippines, individuals are seeking ways to combat heat-induced
fatigue and maintain optimal energy levels. Energy drinks have gained popularity as a quick and convenient
solution; however, concerns have arisen regarding their high sugar content and synthetic additives. This study aims
to explore the potential of sunflower (Helianthus annuus) seeds as a natural and nutritious alternative for formulating
energy drinks. Sunflower seeds are rich in essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats, which
provide sustained energy and promote overall well-being. By evaluating the nutritional composition, energy-
boosting potential, and sensory acceptability of a sunflower seed-based energy drink, this research aims to offer a
healthier and more sustainable beverage option. The findings of this study can contribute to the development of
functional and natural beverages that address the specific needs of individuals facing the challenges of increasing
heat index, promoting both physical and mental well-being.

Question

What is the sensory acceptability of the sunflower seed-based energy drink among potential consumers, considering
factors such as taste, aroma, and overall preference with the use of electronic nose and electronic tongue?

Is there a significant difference in the sensory acceptability between sunflower seed-based energy drinks and
commercial energy drinks such as Gatorade, Sting and Cobra?

Hypothesis

Null: There will be no significant difference in the sensory acceptability between sunflower seed-based energy
drinks and commercial energy drinks.

Alternative hypothesis: There will be a significant difference in the sensory acceptability between sunflower seed-
based energy drinks and commercial energy drinks.