Phosphate Loading Prevention Qualities of Biodegradable Filters for Septic Use
ISEF · 2020 Earth and Environmental Sciences
Overview
This study uses simulated septic effluent leaching into sandy soils similar in composition to those located in the Cape Cod area of Massachusetts to identify the orthophosphate (PO4 3-) filtration abilities of biodegradable materials with phosphate filtration potential. Materials tested include: 1.) chitosan, 2.) pistachio shell, 3.) pine chip, 4.) hickory chip, and 5.) coconut fiber. These materials are tested against the control of a typical septic system leach field without any added filters. Research on these various materials states that they have filtration characteristics which may make them suitable for PO4 3- absorption projects. This study employs a distilled water-sodium phosphate solution, which, when dissolved becomes an orthophosphate. The results of this experiment help determine whether the tested biodegradable materials are effective in filtering significant amounts of PO4 3- out of water and contribute to defining the filtration properties of these various materials. Findings may be used to improve the ecology of populated, non-sewered coastal environments. This material analysis may also contribute to future engineering projects on leach field filters.
Competition history
- ISEF 2020
Resources
Related projects
CWSF · 2026
A Cleaner Tomorrow with Biochar Today
ISEF · 2014
Can Woody Fiber from the Invasive Exotic Tree Brazilian Pepper (Schnius terebinthifolious) Be Utilized as a Filtration Medium to Remove Phosphate from Waste Waters?
ISEF · 2020
The Use of Eggshell Waste as a Bio-Adsorbant of Phosphates for Water and Soil Quality
ISEF · 2016
Developing Inexpensive Calcium Alginate Based Scaffolds for Phosphate Sorption in Stormwater
Closest projects by meaning, across every fair and year in the corpus.
Source: Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair