PECOWWS: Permeable Concrete as Waste Water Management System

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

The Philippines is known as a tropical country. This feature of the country has been the very reason why the country faces more than 20 typhoons each year. However, excessive rainwater and malfunction of some drainage system cause flood in the community, especially in low lying areas. This problem led the researchers to produce a flood-lessening project from permeable concrete with a water purifier. This study will satisfy the widespread demands of the community for clean water, especially during rainy seasons. The project is significant to the people living in flood-prone areas. It can help the household lessen the flooding for the safety of all individuals. It can also ensure the health of the citizens most notably from the possible diseases that can be brought by the stagnant water. Lastly, it can lessen the negative impact on the environment, such as soil erosion and water runoff caused by too much water.

METHODS

A multiple research methods design was used in the research. The researchers conducted several tests for different setups of the porous concrete in determining the perfect mixture that registered greater effectiveness. Thus, descriptive research was used. Using this approach, the researchers recorded, analyzed, and interpreted the collected data. They also compared the permeable concrete to standard concrete.

RESULTS

The conducted experiment led to different results. After comparing the components and physical appearance of porous concrete, the researchers found out that six kilograms of gravel, two kilograms of cement and one and a half liter of water were the most effective mixture to be used in making permeable concrete. Temperatures also affect the formation of porous concrete. Lastly, the result of the wastewater after passing through the porous concrete showed a Total Suspended Solid of 8 ml/L and Fecal Coliform Count of 920 MNP/100mL which indicates that the water is not advisable to drink but acceptable only for cleaning and other purposes.

DISCUSSIONS

With the results gathered and with the tests performed, the researchers can infer that the water from PeCoWWS is not potable or advisable to drink but is still useful for cleaning and other purposes. The researchers concluded that permeable concrete as wastewater management system could be an alternative to the standard concrete.