CLIFF BRYANT S. SELERA, MERIEL JESSA S. ZAMORA (MARCH 2014)
Philippine Science High School Western Visayas Campus – Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PSHS WVC), Brgy. Bito-on, Jaro, Iloilo City 5000, Philippines
ABSTRACT
Mercury (Hg) is a dangerous contaminant that can cause severe neurological degeneration. Many ways of removing this heavy metal require advanced techniques and can be very expensive. Phytoextraction is an inexpensive yet effective alternative in removing this heavy metal. In this study, mature Aloe vera (Aloe vera) plants were used as a hyperaccumulator. Two treatments, which are 75 mg kg¹ and 150 mg kg¹ of Hg were introduced separately into a soil mixture containing loam, coarse sand and crushed limestone. A control group where no mercury was introduced is also added to further ensure reliable data. After replanting the Aloe vera plants in its individual pots containing contaminated soil, it was then allowed to absorb for 21 days. Plant samples were collected from the plant’s leaf and was sent to a laboratory for analysis. Results show that the amount of mercury measured in both treatments is similar to the control group. This signifies that Aloe vera is not capable to accumulate high amounts of Hg in a 21-day period.