DOST-FPRDI DEVELOPS WASTEWATER TREATMENT EQUIPMENT Philippine | 03/02/2022

The DOST-Forest Products Research and Development Institute (DOST-FPRDI) recently installed its wastewater treatment equipment to a Pampanga-based furniture and handicraft company.

The equipment was developed to help RSU Manufacturing Corporation properly dispose of the used water coming from their finishing spray booths (FSBs). RSU produces furniture and handicrafts from wood, rattan and other non-wood forest products, and currently operates nine wet-type FSBs.

“This equipment addresses the improper discharge of wastewater that usually contains toxic chemicals from the finishing overspray. It takes into account the wastewater’s characteristics and the best treatment method for it,” explained project leader Engr. Edward S. Marasigan.

The spray booth is an enclosure that controls the spread of excess varnish or paint during the finishing operation. It was developed by the Institute to provide a safer working area and better quality products.

DOST-FPRDI researcher For. Aralyn Quintos added, “The current practice of disposing wastewater thru drainage or directly to bodies of water contributes to environmental pollution. Wastewater from the FSBs contains aromatics, benzene derivatives, alcohol, siloxanes, propanoic and pentanoic acid which are harmful to aquatic plants and animals. It can also cause the excessive growth of a bad kind of algae.”

The turn-over ceremony for the equipment was attended by staff from DOST-FPRDI, DOST Region 3 and RSU last 05 October. Aside from the installation, the Institute will also provide training on equipment operation. (Apple Jean M. de Leon)