STEM

Rapid Benthic Insect Diversity Assessment in Selected Streams Affected by Agricultural Anthropogenic Disturbances in Virac, Catanduanes

Rion Faustus O. Benitez*, Jude Vincent G. Lumbao, Benedict M. Quiñones, and Joseph Noel G. Tabor

Senior High School Department, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, Catanduanes National High School, Virac, Catanduanes

Benthic insect diversities can indicate how much anthropogenic activities affect a certain area. Catanduanes, known for its agriculture, led to the prominence of agriculture related anthropogenic disturbances in the province. Observing the diversity of these significant benthic insect species through a rapid diversity assessment among affected streams will determine whether there is a stark difference between relatively disturbed downstream areas and their rarely disturbed upstream areas. Benthic insects located in the downstream and upstream areas of the streams of Sto. Niño and Sibanhan were simultaneously sampled one day each through pole kick net capturing, wherein these samples equated to a rough estimate of the total abundance and diversity of the benthic insects within each area. The samples were then identified using a macroinvertebrate identification key and had their Shannon-Weiner Diversity Indices calculated. The diversities revealed that there is a significant difference between areas of anthropogenically disturbed and undisturbed stream stations, as some stations were significantly less diverse due to more dominant species taking up the population. Furthermore, the results also revealed that anthropogenic disturbances also increase the presence of pollution-sensitive taxa in downstream sites due to increased flow rate, inferring that they do not necessarily lessen the individuals within a community.

Keywords—agricultural anthropogenic disturbances, benthic insects, diversity, downstream, rapid assessment, Shannon-Weiner Diversity Index, upstream

Download File 

Development of Paints from Annatto seeds (Bixa orellana), Cosmos (Cosmos sulphureus), and Butterfly Pea (Clitoria ternatea)

Jewel Eunice B. Tablante , Jean April Marie N. Tabor, Kate Millicent S. Lopez, and Inah Jorgena H. Brito

Senior High School Department, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, Catanduanes National High School, Virac, Catanduanes

This study explores the development of natural paints derived from Annatto seeds (Bixa orellana), Cosmos flowers (Cosmos sulphureus), and Butterfly Pea flowers (Clitoria ternatea). The research aims to assess the effectiveness of these plant-based pigments in terms of color vibrancy, stability, and usability for artistic applications. Pigments were extracted through a process involving boiling and maceration, followed by precipitation with alum and washing soda. A cornstarch-based binder was then used to create the paint. The resulting pigments exhibited distinct colors: Annatto seeds produced a stable red-orange hue, Cosmos flowers yielded a yellow-to-dark yellow, and Butterfly Pea flowers offered a range of blue and green shades. The paints were evaluated for their color stability, and usability in art. Results indicated that while the colors remained vibrant and adhered well to paper, some tertiary colors developed cracks due to binder shrinkage. Despite these minor issues, the paints proved effective for artistic use, offering a sustainable and non-toxic alternative to synthetic paints. This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on plant-based pigments and encourages the adoption of eco-friendly practices in art and design. 

Keywords—Annatto seeds, Cosmos flowers, Butterfly Pea flowers, natural paints, plant-based pigments, sustainable art, eco-friendly alternatives

Download File 

Coconut (Cocos nucifera) Fiber as Cement Aggregates in Improving the Strength of Bricks 

Mc Oemer T. Tabirara, Eunice A. Reyes, Ryzza May T. Sarmiento, and Dan Andrew P. Tapit

Senior High School Department, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, Catanduanes National High School, Virac, Catanduanes

The overall goal of this research is to investigate the effect of adding a coconut fiber in concrete as a cement aggregate. The viable replacement of using agricultural waste as an aggregate could lessen the impact to the environment. By varying the ratio of coconut fiber (25%, 50%, 75%) in the brick mixture, we tested the effects on the compressive strength, water absorption, and drop height test. Results showed that in waster absorption, after 24 hours of soaking, Brick 1 increased from 2.98 kg to 3.75 kg, Brick 2 from 3.06 kg to 3.75 kg, and Brick 3 from 2.98 kg to 3.45 kg. The compression test results show that the brick 3 reached 146.85kN, and other sample 67.78kN before failure. Coconut fiber reinforcement contributed to gradual failure, better load distribution, and delayed sudden cracks, but also caused non-uniform failure patterns near peak loads. A drop test (1-7ft) showed brick 1 was the strongest. All bricks broke 6ft or higher, indicating varying strengths for different applications. Higher coconut fiber percentage resulted in weaker bricks. The study did not achieve its expected outcome. Our findings suggest that coconut fiber must mixed in the right proportion to achieve a higher level of brick strength.

Keywords—Coconut fiber, cement-aggregate, bricks, compressive strength, concrete blocks

Download File 

Chicken Feathers and Eggshells as Additives in Fire Retardant

Carla May A. Araojo, Jhoellie Rose D. Brizo, Ediah Ashen T. De Leon, and Angel Ann T. Toledana

Senior High School Department, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, Catanduanes National High School, Virac, Catanduanes

This study investigates the effectiveness of chicken  feathers and eggshells as eco-friendly fire-retardant additives. A  quantitative experimental research design was employed,  including an experimental group of three plywood samples  treated with a fire retardant formulation and untreated plywood  samples as a control group. The chicken feathers were washed,  sun-dried, and roasted in an oven at 250°C for 20 minutes. The  collected shells were also washed and sun-dried. Both materials  were pulverized. Three fire retardant set-ups were created  following the 25:75, 50:50, and 75:25 ratios for the chicken  feathers and eggshell additives. Three plywood boards were  prepared for each set-up and were coated with the fire retardant  formulation. The mass loss, ignition time, burning duration,  charring rate, and char area were all determined. Results show  similar positive outcomes among all fire retardant formulations,  but with the 50:50 ratio posting the most positive outcome. These  findings indicate that an effective fire retardant with chicken  feathers and eggshells as additives can be formulated even in  varying concentrations.

Keywords—mass loss, ignition time, burning time, charring rate, char area

Download File 

Bio-resin from Potato Starch, Glycerin, Distilled Water, Vinegar, and Gelatin in Preserving Sampaguita (Jasminum sambac) 

Kyle Joshua T. Casanova, Princes Angel R. Ecaldre, Travis Louise S. Guerrero, Francine R. Saldua, Samantha Jane D. Tulod, and Jade Angela P. Zafe

Senior High School Department, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, Catanduanes National High School, Virac, Catanduanes

To preserve Sampaguita blossoms (Jasminum sambac), this study investigates the use of bio-resin derived from potato starch. Despite its famed beauty and aroma, Sampaguita soon wilts after being harvested. The researchers wanted to use natural materials to extend their freshness in a way that was both economical and environmentally benign.  Potato starch was extracted, combined with distilled water, glycerin, vinegar, and gelatin, and then processed to create a bio-resin covering. According to the results, flowers treated with the bio-resin remained nearly fresh enough, but the researcher was unable to characterize the color of the Sampaguita and space retention in the other formulation since it did not achieve the clear and visibility of the bio-resin. This technique reduces waste and dangerous chemicals while providing a sustainable approach to conserving flowers. According to the study, bio-resin made from potato starch would be a good substitute for flower preservation; however, further formulation and testing were required to produce the appropriate bio-resin. 

Keywords—Sampaguita preservation, Jasminum sambac, bio-resin, potato starch, biodegradable coating, sustainable preservation, flower conservation 

Download File 

Pili (Canarium ovatum) Peels as a Corrosion Inhibitor for Mild Steel Nails

Jennica Eunice T. Lopez, Julia Francesca A. Romero, Zoe Juliana S. Sorra, and Lyka V. Tabuzo

Senior High School Department, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, Catanduanes National High School, Virac, Catanduanes

The inhibitive action of extracts from pili (C. ovatum) peels on mild steel nails has been studied using the weight-loss method, inhibition efficiency analysis, and corrosion rate. The measurements showed that pili peels have good inhibition properties. Weight loss results suggest that inhibitive efficiency increases with higher concentrations. It also revealed that the adsorption of pili peel extract stabilizes over time. Corrosion rate analysis demonstrated a significant reduction in metal degradation, particularly in higher inhibitor concentrations. The effectiveness of the inhibitor varied depending on the type of corrosive environment, with the best performance observed in saltwater (NaCl) and vinegar (CH3COOH) solutions. These findings highlight the potential of pili peel extract as a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to conventional corrosion inhibitors.

Keywords—corrosion inhibitor (C. I.), mild steel, inhibition efficiency, weight loss 

Download File 

Utilizing Brown Seaweed (Sargassum spp.) and Cornstarch as a Binder for Particle Board Production 

Raven Charles P. Ativo, Al Chester M. Medrana, John Benedick B. Metica, Brad V. Vergara

Senior High School Department, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, Catanduanes National High School, Virac, Catanduanes

Particle board is a composite material that compresses small biomass particles under heat and pressure, forming a solid panel. This study investigates the feasibility of using brown seaweed (Sargassum spp.) as an alternative raw material for particle board production with a cornstarch binder. The objective is to assess the physical and mechanical properties of seaweed-based particle boards, determine the optimal binder ratio, and compare their performance to commercial boards. The methodology includes collecting and processing brown seaweed, extracting its necessary components, and integrating them into particle board production. Three setups were tested, each containing 100% seaweed with different cornstarch binder ratios: Board A (60%), Board B (80%), and Board C (100%). The boards were evaluated for compressive strength, water absorption, and thickness swelling. Results showed that thickness swelling was similar across all boards, and seaweed-based boards absorbed more water than commercial ones. Among the samples, Board C demonstrated the best balance of properties, with the lowest thickness swelling and acceptable water absorption. These findings suggest that Sargassumbased particle boards could serve as a sustainable building material while helping to manage marine waste. Future research should focus on optimizing material composition, exploring alternative binders, and assessing long-term durability. 

Keywords— Particle Board, brown seaweed (Sargassum spp.), cornstarch, compressive strength, water absorption, thickness swelling 

Download File 

Explore the water absorption capability of Geotextile made out of Abaca-Coir

Jomni N. Molina, Michael James T. Osorio, Sammy Quirante Jr., Kyrk Yexel S. Tablizo, Rhian Rose Tabios and Akeisha Pearle Donato

Senior High School Department, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, Catanduanes National High School, Virac, Catanduanes

This study investigates the tensile strength and water absorption properties of abaca-coir geotextiles in different fibre ratios (70:30, 50:50, and 30:70) compared to synthetic geotextiles. The objective is to determine the effectiveness of natural fibre geotextiles under both dry and wet conditions. The geotextiles were handwoven and tested for tensile strength in both states, while water absorption was measured at 10-minute intervals for up to 30 minutes. Results showed that the 70:30 abaca-coir ratio exhibited the highest tensile strength in both conditions, whereas synthetic geotextiles weakened significantly when wet. Additionally, abaca-coir geotextiles absorbed more water than synthetic alternatives, with the 30:70 ratio demonstrating the highest absorption. These findings suggest that natural fibre geotextiles, particularly those with a higher abaca content, provide superior mechanical performance and water retention, making them a viable alternative to synthetic materials for erosion control and environmental applications.

Keywords— Abaca-coir geotextile, tensile strength, water absorption, synthetic geotextile, natural fibre, erosion control, moisture resistance

Download File 

The Effectiveness of Malunggay (Moringa oleifera) leaves  extract as Permanent Marker Ink 

Caden Nimeesha B. Babaran, Aaron V. Dimayuga, Tiffany Anne D. Manoguid, and Erika Fhate T. Tablizo

Senior High School Department, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, Catanduanes National High School, Virac, Catanduanes

The study examines the potential of malunggay  (Moringa oleifera) leaves as an eco-friendly alternative for  permanent marker ink. It addresses the environmental concerns  associated with commercial markers, which often contain  harmful chemical components. The procedures involve the  extraction of pigments using traditional methods and mixing  them with gum arabic and isopropyl alcohol to make the ink.  The produce malunggay marker ink was tested on different  surfaces—glossy, smooth, and rough—to check its performance  in terms of opacity, odor, text smearing, ink flow, and drying  time. The ink’s effectiveness was gathered from the data using a  survey of 21 respondents. The findings shows that although the  malunggay ink is good on rough surfaces in terms of opacity, text  smearing, and drying time, its performance on glossy and  smooth surfaces needs to be improved. This study highlights the  potential of mkunggay leaves as a sustainable resource for  marker ink production, paving the way for eco-friendly  innovations. 

Keywords— Malunggay (Moringa oleifera) leaves, permanent  marker, plant-based ink, natural pigments, eco-friendly,  effectiveness, non-toxic ink 

Download File 

Utilizing Fish-Scale Derived Chitosan Extract for Biodegradable Packaging

Karen Mae B. Panti, Francis Angelo R. Gesmundo, Chloe Vargas and Mike C. Vasquez

Senior High School Department, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, Catanduanes National High School, Virac, Catanduanes

Plastic pollution remains a major environmental issue, and this has driven the search for eco-friendly packaging materials. In this study, the possibility of utilizing chitosan derived from fish scales as a biodegradable packaging material is explored. Fish scales were collected and processed to yield purified chitosan, which was characterized and used to prepare thin films. The purified chitosan was of high purity and well-deacetylated and hence suitable for film formation. Chitosan films were mechanically stable and were of good biodegradability, breaking down considerably in soil burial tests. The result indicates that fish scale-derived chitosan is a good, eco-friendly option for biodegradable packaging, providing a good solution for reducing plastic waste and promoting environmental sustainability. 

Keywords—biodegradable packaging, chitosan extraction, fish scale-derived, mechanical properties, biodegradability, plastic waste reduction.

Download File 

Germination Performance of Hybrid Rice Varieties in Catanduanes Treated with Malunggay (Moringa oleifera) Leaf Extract

Sef Nazrene P. Padua, Merry Magdaline V. Reodique, Amara Liane B. Santos, and Trisha Nova E. Sorra

Senior High School Department, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, Catanduanes National High School, Virac, Catanduanes

Hydropriming is used to help seeds germinate, and one of the enhanced agents for this is Moringa Leaf Extract (MLE), which can improve seedling performance in various crops, including rice. This study investigates the effects on germination and early growth of hybrid rice varieties (TH82 and NK5017) using MLE as a seed priming agent. Two hybrid rice varieties (TH82 and NK5017) were tested; each variety was subjected to five treatments (100% MLE, 75% MLE, 50% MLE, 25% MLE, and 100% water as a controlling variable) using the “Ragdoll Method.” The parameters, including Germination Percentage (GP), Germination Index (GI), Mean Germination Time (MGT), and Seedling Vigor Index (SVI), were calculated. Results showed that TH82 exhibits good germination across all the treatments (85% to 89%), while NK5017 has low germination (2% to 8%). Different concentrations did not affect the MI. Additionally, concentrations with water (T2 – 75% MLE + 25% water and T4 – 25% MLE + 75% water) led to higher MGT, indicating a faster germination rate. Seeds subjected to lower MLE resulted in vigorous development.  Based on these assessments, T4 (25% MLE + 75% water) is the best MLE concentration to enhance the germination speed and seedling vigor of TH82 and NK5017. The findings of this study will contribute to the growing knowledge of using plant-based extracts as seed primers and their potential application in a sustainable agricultural field.

Keywords—malunggay leaf extract (MLE), seed priming, hydropriming, hybrid rice, germination performance, germination percentage, germination index, mean germination time, seedling vigor index, treatments, plant-based primer

Download File