Republic of the Philippines

CAMARINES SUR POLYTECHNIC COLLEGES

Nabua, Camarines Sur

"DEVELOPMENT OF AN EFFICIENT
FORMULATION MIXER FOR WATER LILY
FERTILIZER"

A Project
Presented to
the Faculty of the College of Engineering and Architecture
Camarines Sur Polytechnic Colleges
In Partial Fulfilment
of the Requirements for
the Methods of Research for ME in Mechanical Engineering
by

Arnante, May Ann P.

Bernales, Jezle F.
Bobis, Erwin
Breboneria, Jibril
Ojo, Ranulfo
Reptacodo, Harvey

Engr. Joseph Nathan B. Marquez

Instructor
 Republic of the Philippines
CAMARINES SUR POLYTECHNIC COLLEGES
Nabua, Camarines Sur

Chapter 1
INTRODUCTION
Background of the Study

Water lilies are part of the Nymphaeaceae family and are well-known for their
ability to thrive in various aquatic environments, both as beautiful additions and as vital
components of delicate ecosystems. However, the excessive growth of these aquatic
plants in some areas can cause imbalances, negatively impacting water quality and
ecosystem dynamics. Thick growth of water lilies hinders oxygen exchange and traps
heat, leading to algae blooms, stagnation, and mosquito breeding. Controlling water
hyacinth is resource-intensive due to its rapid growth and regenerative abilities, posing
challenges to authorities, local communities, and environmental organizations.

Despite its innocent appearance, the water hyacinth, commonly known as the
"water lily," is an invasive species that obstructs waterways and creates breeding
grounds for mosquitoes. Consequently, its presence in the Pasig River and Laguna de
Bay, particularly in the Philippines, has impacted flora and fauna, marine transportation,
fishing, and irrigation. To address this issue, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)
has initiated livelihood activities to transform the water hyacinth into commercial
products. In Laguna, Pampanga, Pasig, Las Pinas, and Taguig, the water hyacinth stalks
have been utilized to create bags, home accents, personal accessories, and other items
with commercial value through delicate weaving processes.

The water hyacinth covers 20% of Laguna de Bay and yields 657 tons of dry
matter per hectare per year due to high sewage concentrations. It causes barriers to
waterways, affecting marine transportation, fishing, and irrigation. It clogs up systems,
causing heavy floods and increased pollution, especially during rainy seasons. During
Typhoon Frank in 2008, it worsened flooding, impacting 5,000+ houses.
 Republic of the Philippines
CAMARINES SUR POLYTECHNIC COLLEGES
Nabua, Camarines Sur

Water lilies are often

appreciated for their stunning appearance and the way they add vibrancy to water
bodies. However, at the end of their lifespan, these aquatic plants are usually thrown
away, adding to organic waste. But instead of letting these water lilies decompose
without any use, a sustainable and innovative approach has been developed that
involves converting them into a valuable resource – water lily fertilizer. Utilizing abundant
and ecologically relevant resources is crucial for achieving sustainable agriculture. Water
lilies are found in aquatic environments all over the world and are a rich source of organic
matter and vital nutrients.

Therefore, they present a unique opportunity to be utilized efficiently. To fully realize their
potential for fertilizer production, an innovative approach is required, specifically when
developing a sophisticated formulation mixer.

Statement of the Problem:

This research aims to develop and enhance a mixer that can extract nutrients
from water lilies effectively, while also guaranteeing a uniform and balanced fertilizer
mixture.This study requires acquisition of answer for the following problems:

1. What is the effectiveness of the proposed formulation mixer in terms of:

a. Speed and productivity

b. Uniformity
c. Holding Capacity
d. Safety
e. Efficiency
f. Operation

2. What are the specific challenges encountered in the current formulation mixing
process of water lily fertilizer?
 Republic of the Philippines
CAMARINES SUR POLYTECHNIC COLLEGES
Nabua, Camarines Sur

3. What key role on

utilization and application will the proposed Development of an efficient
formulation mixer for Water lily fertilizer in the near future?