the electrical engineer - IIEE

Volume xlVIx issue no. 3 2020

THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER

THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE INSTITUTE OF INTEGRATED electrical engineers of the philippines, inc.

ABOUTTHE COVER

COVER PHOTO CONTRIBUTED FOR THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER

I S S N 0 1 1 5 - 6 3 2 2

OCEAN ENERGYrefers to all forms of renewable energy derived from the sea. There are three main types of ocean technology: wave, tidal,

and ocean thermal.

MARIA JOSENIA R. BAUTROMARVIN H. CASEDA

ROSELYN C. ROCIOVITINI EDHARD IDEMNEMARIE SANITA SILAO-FUERTES

MARIA JOSENIA R. BAUTROMARVIN H. CASEDAROSELYN C. ROCIO VITINI EDHARD IDEMNEMARIE SANITA SILAO-FUERTESLYNDON R. BAGUE

RODRIGO T. PECOLERAEUGENIO F. ARAULLOALLAN ANTHONY P. ALVAREZLYNDON R. BAGUEROLAND P. VASQUEZFELICIANO F. PADUA IIIFLORIGO C. VARONACIRILO C. CALIBJODELFREDO J. COMEDISWOODY G. ERAMAMA. CRISTINA F. SANDOVALJEDDPER N. DE CASTROJORGE I. TABIRARAJOEL C. MARTINEZFELIPE C. NILLAMANOEL R. ESTOPEREZARIS LOVE G. GUIANICHRISTIAN J. MALIGRODENE S. HORNEJA

KRISTINE BERNADETTE J. LLAMAS MA. ELENA U. LIONGSONYHELLA N. MIRARANMARY ANN B. GUILLENALMA C. LARCEJENNY J. ARADA

ARON D. RICAFRENTE

DEPARTMENT OF ENERGYNATIONAL GRID CORPORATION OF THE PHILIPPINES

I N T E G R I T Y. I N N O V A T I O N . E M P O W E R M E N T . E X C E L L E N C E .

2020 THEME"ENERGIZING IIEE for Membership Empowerment:Leading the way for

Glocal Connectivity

EDITOR-IN-CHIEFASSOCIATE EDITOR

LUZONVISAYAS

MINDANAO

M E E T T H E T E A MTHE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER EDITORIAL BOARD

EDITORIAL STAFF

CHAIRMANVICE CHAIRMAN

MEMBERS

OVERSEER

PUBLICATIONS COMMITTEE

NATIONAL PRESIDENTVP-INTERNAL AFFAIRSVP-EXTERNAL AFFAIRS

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NATIONAL AUDITORIMMEDIATE FORMER PRESIDENTGOVERNOR-NORTHERN LUZON

GOVERNOR-CENTRAL LUZONGOVERNOR-METRO MANILA

GOVERNOR-SOUTHERN LUZONGOVERNOR-BICOL

GOVERNOR-WESTERN VISAYASGOVERNOR-EASTERN/CENTRAL VISAYAS

GOVERNOR-NORTHERN MINDANAOGOVERNOR-SOUTHERN MINDANAO

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2020 I IEE BOARD OF GOVERNORS

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WITH REPORTS FROM

TO GOD BE ALL THE GLORY

MANAGING EDITORS

The elecTrical engineer is published twice a year by the Institute of IntegratedElectrical Engineers of the Philippines, Inc. (IIEE), with editorial and business office at

#41 Monte de Piedad St., Cubao, Quezon City, Philippines.Tel Nos. (632) 414-5626, Fax Nos. (632) 721-6442 & 410-1899.

Website: www.iiee.org.ph; E-mail: [email protected] an e-copy, you may visit our website, www.iiee.org.ph

The present circulation of the magazine is 55,000 copies per issueto members and industry stakeholders.

iiee.org.ph VOLUME XLVIX 2020 Issue No. 3 3

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20M I S S I O N

To enhance the competencies of electrical practitioners to make positive contribution towards new trends and technologies.

To be an authority of electrical engineering services that results to safe, reliable and efficient systems.

To consistently deliver high quality products and services duly recognized by international organizations and institutions.

To promote awareness on the use of environmentally friendly electrical products, services and resources as well as active participation on disaster preparedness and recovery programs.

V I S I O NTo be the leading electrical professional organization globally.

D I S C L A I M E RThe views and opinions expressed by the contributors of The Electrical Engineer do not necessarily reflect the views of the editors and publishers of the magazine or of the Institute of Integrated Electrical Engineers of the Philippines, Inc. (IIEE). IIEE and the editorial board carry no responsibility for the opinions expressed in the magazine.

Articles or visual materials may not be reproduced without written consent from the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to accept, edit, or refuse submitted materials for publication.

EE MAGAZINE

CONTRIBUTORSMARIA JOSENIA R. BAUTRO, PEE"With Integrity There Comes Honor."

MARVIN H. CASEDA, REEOnce a DAWNer, always a DAWNer."

ROSELYN C. ROCIO, PEE“ if something is worth fighting for, you stand and fight."

VITINI EDHARD IDEMNE, REE"Praise and worships God."

ARON D. RICAFRENTE, I.T./ARTIST"Work for a Cause not for Applause."

MICAH DYLAN C. CRISOLOGO"The person we are most unfamiliar with is probably ourselves."

EMMANUEL P. ALLADA, REE"You'll never grow unless you leave your comfort zone"

MARIE SANITA SILAO-FUERTES, PEE"Be good. Do good. And do no harm."

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THEELECTRICAL

ENGINEER

WORLD'S SMELLIEST FRUIT COULD CHARGE YOUR MOBILE PHONE Imagine if we could use naturally-grown products, like plants and fruit, to store the electricity that charges commonly used electronics, like mobile phones, tablets, laptops or even electric cars?

7

24 MENTAL HEALTHIt is an expression we use every day, so it might surprise you that the term ‘mental health’ is frequently misunderstood.

HEALTH

22 WOMEN IN IIEEIIEE is not only a man's world, for we have "Women in IIEE" too.

WOMEN IN IIEE

18 OCEAN ENERGY refers to all forms of renewable energy derived from the sea. There are three main types of ocean technology: wave, tidal, and ocean thermal.

COVER STORY

19 LET us travel to discover what POWER these PLANTS give us!

TRAVEL STORY

contents

34 TURN OVER CEREMONIESAs 2020 is about to come to an end, the Institute of Integrated Electrical Engineers of the Philippines, Inc. (IIEE) continues its tradition to celebrate the year and formally pass the leadership to the Organization’s upcoming president and to recognize the 2020

IIEE ACTIVITIES

36 PHOTOSYNTHETIC BIOELECTRICITYEnergy consumption within the world had a prosperous trend over the years. Energy sources are classified into two: renewable sources and non-renewable sources. Most of the energy we use come from non-renewable sources such as nuclear and fossil energy.

TECHNICAL

28 NEA: POWER RESTORED IN PARTS OF BICOL REGION; DAMAGE TO POWER FACILITIES DUE TO 'ROLLY' REACHES P370 MILLIONPower has been restored in some areas in the Bicol region, the National Electrification Administration (NEA) said Monday, as the estimated cost of damage to power distribution facilities from Typhoon 'Rolly' has increased to P370 million.

WHAT'S NEWS

3045TH VIRTUAL ANNUAL NATIONAL CONVENTION As early as the first quarter of the year, the Board of Governors and the Convention Bureau were already trying to come up with a timely and practical plan regarding the conduct of this year’s convention.

FEATURE'S STORY


Editor's Note

Undoubtedly, Year 2020 has been a very challenging year for all of us. “We were not prepared for this!” - may be the statement of the year, and yet we made it. Reminiscing what we all have been through, IIEE itself started the year with plans - through the 2020 BOG Strategic Planning and the IIEE Committee Strategic Planning. But as

the 2020 BOG Strategic Planning was in its conclusion, Taal Volcano erupted and immediately the newly formed committee that would address IIEE’s role as a helping-hand to the community was literally “switched on” to function and implement an immediate action.

Having completed its immediate response to the volcano eruption victims, Covid19 immediately followed through which meant that only the Northern Luzon Regional Conference was held on a face-to-face basis, causing the 2020 BOG act fast, and change plans that are adapted to the current situation which is beyond everybody’s control. Restrictions of mobility followed through due to Community Quarantines, so the BOG shifted to utilizing Zoom and other virtual platforms in order to continue to perform their duties for IIEE.

This is HUGE considering that everything is challenging, difficult, and almost anything that was done was a first-time kind of action – virtual meetings, online requests, virtual conferences, e-voting, and virtual convention! Yet, at IIEE, we did it - owing to the concerted efforts of the IIEE Committees, Chapter Officers, Industry Partners and IIEE members, and the leadership of our National Officers and Regional Governors. For that, “Maraming Salamat sa Ating Lahat!”

Having successfully triumphed 2020’s challenges, we are now about to conclude another year of service to our organizations’ membership. With this, the Publications Committee is giving you its third and final issue for 2020 - as promised on our first PubCom meeting - we are committed to bring you three issues. Commitment completed and done!

Surely, as we end another year with IIEE, while being confined most of the time in the safety of our homes, we have kept in touch with our professional organization. As we approach the new year (2021) with positive hopes that the Pandemic will soon be over, let us continue to be One in IIEE.

“Goodbyes are not forever. Goodbyes are not the end. They simply mean – We’ll miss you. Until we meet again.”

My Fair Share follows, Happy Holidays everyone!

WE WERE NOT PREPARED FOR THIS!MARIA JOSENIA R. BAUTRO

THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER MAGAZINEEDITOR-IN-CHIEF

"

"


My Fair Share

Pungent produce packs an electrical punch

A University of Sydney researcher has developed a new method using the world's most repulsive smelling fruit. Turning durian waste into super-capacitors could "substantially reduce" the cost of energy storage and

charge devices very quickly.

Imagine if we could use naturally-grown products, like plants and fruit, to store the electricity that charges commonly used electronics, like mobile phones, tablets, laptops or even electric cars?

Researchers from the University of Sydney have done just that, and have developed a method that uses durian and jackfruit waste to create energy stores for rapid electricity charging.

School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering academic Associate Professor Vincent Gomes explains how he and the research team managed to turn the tropical fruits into super-capacitors.

My Fair Share


World's Smelliest Fruit could charge your mobile phone


Editor's Note


Although considered by some to be a delicacy, durian fruit is infamous for its repulsive odour. Credit: Pixabay.

How does it work?“Using durian and jackfruit purchased from a market, we converted the fruits’ waste portions (biomass) into super-capacitors that can be used to store electricity efficiently,” said Associate Professor Gomes.

“Using a non-toxic and non-hazardous green engineering method that used heating in water and freeze drying of the fruits’ biomass, the durian and jackfruit were transformed into stable carbon aerogels — an extremely light and porous synthetic material used for a range of applications.

“Carbon aerogels make great super-capacitors because they are highly porous. We then used the fruit-derived aerogels to make electrodes which we tested for their energy storage properties, which we found to be exceptional.”

What are super-capacitors?“Super-capacitors are like energy reservoirs that dole out energy smoothly. They can quickly store large amounts of energy within a small battery-sized device and then supply energy to charge electronic devices, such as mobile phones, tablets and laptops, within a few seconds," said Associate Professor Gomes.

“Compared to batteries, super-capacitors are not only able to charge devices very quickly but also in orders of magnitude greater charging cycles than conventional devices.

"The current super-capacitors are made from activated carbon which are nowhere near as efficient as the ones prepared during this project."


My Fair Share

Why Durian and Jack fruit?“Durian waste was selected based on the excellent template nature provides for making porous aerogels,” said Associate Professor Gomes.

“The durian and jack-fruit super-capacitors perform much better than the materials currently in use and are comparable, if not better, than the expensive and exotic graphene-based materials.

“Durian waste, as a zero-cost substance that the community wants to get rid of urgently due to its repulsive, nauseous smell, is a sustainable source that can transform the waste into a product to substantially reduce the cost of energy storage through our chemical-free, green synthesis protocol.”

What could this technology be used for?“We have reached a point where we must urgently discover and produce ways to create and store energy using sustainably-sourced materials that do not contribute to global warming,” said Associate Professor Gomes.

“Confronted with this and the world’s rapidly depleting supplies of fossil fuels, naturally-derived super-capacitors are leading the way for developing high efficiency energy storage devices."

DISCLOSURE

The study, Aerogel from fruit biowaste produces ultracapacitors with high energy density and stability, was conducted by Associate Professor Vincent Gomes, Kenny Lee, Dr Luba Shabnam, Dr Shaikh Nayeem Faisal and Dr Van Chinh Hoang.

The authors gratefully acknowledge a scholarship from the Research Training Program (LS) and the support from ACMM for SEM, TEM and XRD measurements at The University of Sydney.

There are no conflicts of interest to disclose.


COVER STORY

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COVER STORY


COVER STORY


OCEAN ENERGY refers to all forms of renewable energy derived from the sea. There are three main types of ocean technology: wave, tidal, and ocean thermal.

WAVE ENERGY, is electrical energy generated by harnessing the up-and-down motion of ocean waves. Wave power is typically produced by floating turbine platforms or buoys that rise and fall with the swells. However, wave power can be generated by exploiting the changes in air pressure occurring in wave capture chambers that face the sea or changes in wave pressure on the ocean floor.[1]

TIDAL ENERGY is produced by the surge of ocean waters during the rise and fall of tides. Tidal energy is a renewable source of energy. Engineers developed ways to use tidal movement to generate electricity in areas where there is a significant tidal range—the difference in area between high tide and low tide. All methods use special generators to convert tidal energy into electricity.

Tidal energy production is still in its infancy and the amount of power produced so far has been small. There are very few commercial-sized tidal power plants operating in the world. The first was located in La Rance, France. The largest facility is the Sihwa Lake Tidal Power Station in South Korea.

OCEAN THERMAL ENERGY uses the temperature difference between warm seawater at the surface of the ocean, and cold seawater between 800-1,000 meters depth to produce electricity. The warm seawater is used to produce a vapor that acts as a working fluid to drive turbines. The cold water is used to condense the vapor and ensure the vapor pressure difference drives the turbine. Ocean energy technologies are differentiated by the working fluids that can be used. Open cycle ocean thermal energy uses seawater as the working fluid, while closed cycle uses mostly ammonia. The use of ammonia as working fluid reduces the size of turbines and heat exchangers required.



COVER STORYCOVER STORY


OCEAN ENERGY IN DETAIL

ll forms of energy from the ocean are still at an early stage of commercialization. Wave energy remains more costly than the other ocean technologies. Tidal range has been deployed in locations globally where there is a strong tidal resource (i.e. La

Rance in France, and Sihwa in South Korea), while tidal stream has been demonstrated at pilot scale.

WAVE ENERGY

Wave energy is an irregular and oscillating low-frequency energy source that can be converted to a 60-Hertz frequency and can then be added to the electric utility grid. The energy in waves comes from the movement of the ocean and the changing heights and speed of the swells. Kinetic energy, the energy of motion, in waves is tremendous. An average 1-meter, 10-second wave striking a coast puts out more than 55,000 horsepower per kilometer of coast.

Waves get their energy from the wind. Waves gather, store, and transmit this energy thousands of kilometers with little loss. It varies in intensity, but it is available twenty-four hours a day, 365 days a year. Ocean wave energy technologies rely on the up-and-down motion of waves to generate electricity.

Unlike dams, wave power structures that are equally long-lived promise comparatively benign environmental effects. Wave power is renewable, green, pollution-free, and environmentally invisible, if not beneficial, particularly offshore. Its net potential (resource minus

CETO underwater wave energy device. (Photo Credits to Carnegie Clean Energy)

Pelamis wave power device off the coast of Portugal (Photo Credits to The Royal Society Publishing)


COVER STORY

Strangford Lough Tidal Turbine, Northern Ireland (Photo Credits to www.power-technology.com)

“costs”) is equal to or better than wind, solar, small hydro or biomass power.

There are three basic methods for converting wave energy to electricity:

• Float or buoy systems that use the rise and fall of ocean swells to drive hydraulic pumps. The object can be mounted to a floating raft or to a device fixed on the ocean floor. A series of anchored buoys rise and fall with the wave. The movement “strokes” an electrical generator and makes electricity that is then shipped ashore by underwater power cable

• Oscillating water column devices in which the in-and-out motion of waves at the shore enter a column and force air to turn a turbine. The column fills with water as the wave rises and empties as it descends. In the process, air inside the column is compressed and heats up, creating energy the way a piston does. That energy is then harnessed and sent to shore by electrical cable.

• “Tapered channel” or “tapchan” systems, rely on a shore-mounted structure to channel and concentrate the waves, driving them into an elevated reservoir. Water flow out of this reservoir is used to generate electricity, using standard hydropower technologies.

• Ocean energy could provide a viable contribution to future energy mix:

• Because waves originate from storms far out to sea and can travel long distances without significant energy loss, power produced from them is much steadier and more predictable, both day to day and season to season. This reduces project risk;

Wave energy contains roughly 1000 times the kinetic energy of wind, allowing much smaller and less conspicuous devices to produce the same amount of power in a fraction of the space;

• Unlike wind and solar power, power from ocean waves continues to be produced around the clock, whereas wind velocity tends to die in the morning and at night, and solar is only available during the day in areas with relatively little

cloud cover;• Wave power production is much smoother and more consistent than

wind or solar, resulting in higher overall capacity factors;• Wave energy varies as the square of wave height, whereas wind power

varies with the cube of air speed. Water being 850 times as dense as air, this results in much higher power production from waves averaged over time;

• Estimating the potential resource is much easier than with wind, an important factor in attracting project lenders;

• Because wave energy needs only 1/200 the land area of wind and requires no access roads, infrastructure costs are less;

• Wave energy devices are quieter and much less visually obtrusive than wind devices, which typically run 40-60 meters in height and usually requiring remote siting with attendant high transmission costs. In contrast, 10-meter high wave energy devices can be integrated into breakwaters in busy port areas, producing power exactly where it is needed;

• When constructed with materials developed for use on off-shore oil platforms, ocean wave power devices (which contain few moving parts) should cost less to maintain than those powered by wind;

“It has been estimated that improving technology and economies of scale will allow wave generators to produce electricity at a cost comparable to wind-driven turbines, which produce energy at about 4.5 cents kWh. For now, the best wave generator technology in place in the United Kingdom is producing energy at an average projected/assessed cost of 7.5 cents kWh.

In comparison, electricity generated by large scale coal burning power plants costs about 2.6 cents per kilowatt-hour. Combined-cycle natural gas turbine technology, the primary source of new electric power capacity is about 3 cents per kilowatt hour or higher. It is not unusual to average costs of 5 cents per kilowatt-hour and up municipal utilities districts.

The first wave-power patent was for a 1799 proposal by a Parisian named Monsieur Girard and his son to use direct mechanical action to drive pumps, saws, mills, or other heavy machinery. Installations have been built or are under construction in a number of countries

TIDAL ENERGY


COVER STORY

Sihwa Tidal Power Plant, Sihwa Lake, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea (Photo Credits to www.

slideshare.net)

idal energy is harnessed by converting energy from tides into useful forms of power, mainly electricity using

various methods.

Although not yet widely used, tidal energy has the potential for future electricity generation. Tides are more predictable than the wind and the sun. Among sources of renewable energy, tidal energy has traditionally suffered from relatively high cost and limited availability of sites with sufficiently high tidal ranges or flow velocities, thus constricting its total availability. However, many recent technological developments and improvements, both in design (e.g. dynamic tidal power, tidal lagoons) and turbine technology (e.g. new axial turbines, cross flow turbines), indicate that the total availability of tidal power may be much higher than previously assumed and that economic and environmental costs may be brought down to competitive levels.

There are three categories of tidal energy technologies.The first category, tidal range

technologies use a barrage – a dam or other barrier – to harvest power from the height difference between high and low tide. The power is generated through tidal turbines located in the barrage. Their commercial feasibility has been well established and many such projects are currently in operation.The second category, tidal current or tidal stream technologies use turbines that harvest the energy produced by the horizontal movement of the water caused by the tides. Some tidal current or tidal stream technologies in an early developmental stage can also be used to harvest ocean currents. Compared to tidal currents, ocean currents are unidirectional and generally slower but more continuous.The third category are hybrid applications of tidal range and tidal current technologies that have great potential if their design and deployment can be combined with the planning and design of new infrastructure for coastal zones.

An advantage of both tidal range and tidal current energy is that they

are relatively predictable regular cycles, and are largely unaffected by weather, like solar or wind power can be. However, due to tidal cycles and turbine efficiency, a conventional tidal barrage is producing only 25% of the capacity it would have if it was running continuously. This lead to a high cost of the infrastructure in comparison with power produced. Worldwide, the tidal resources are considerable and the technically harvestable in areas close to the coast. Here are some tidal energy advantages and disadvantages that must not be overlooked:

Advantages of Tidal EnergyClean and CompactTidal power is a known green energy source, at least in terms of emitting zero greenhouse gases. It also doesn’t take up that much space. The largest tidal project in the world is the Sihwa Lake Tidal Power Station in South Korea, with an installed capacity of 254MW. The project, established in 2011, was easily added to a 12.5km-long seawall built in 1994 to protect the coast against flooding and to support agricultural irrigation.


Compare this to some of the largest wind farms, such as the Roscoe wind farm in Texas, US, which takes up 400km2 of farmland, or the 202.3km2 Fowler Ridge wind project in Indiana.

Even solar farms are usually bigger, such as the Tengger Desert Solar Park in China that covers an area of 43km2 and the Bhadla Industrial Solar Park that is spread across 45km2 of land in Rajasthan, India.

In this respect, even small countries with a long enough stretch of coastline can utilize tidal power in ways that they could not otherwise compete with land-rich countries like the US, China, and India on solar and wind.

Continuous and PredictableAnother benefit of tidal power is that it is predictable. The gravitational forces of celestial bodies are not going to stop anytime soon. Furthermore, as high and low tide is cyclical, it is far easier for engineers to design efficient systems, than say, predicting when the wind will blow or when the sun will shine.

Tidal power is also relatively prosperous at low speeds, in contrast to wind power. Water has one thousand times higher density than air and tidal turbines can generate electricity at speeds as low as 1m/s, or 2.2mph. In contrast, most wind turbines begin generating electricity at 3m/s-4m/s, or 7mph-9mph.

Moreover, technological advances in the industry will only drive cheaper and more sustainable tidal power solutions.

Longevity of EquipmentTidal power plants can last much longer than wind or solar farms, at around four times the longevity. Tidal barrages are long concrete structures usually built across river estuaries. The barrages have tunnels along them containing turbines, which are turned when water on one side flows through the barrage to the other side. These dam-like structures are said to have a lifespan of around 100 years. The La Rance in France, for example, has been operational since 1966 and continues to generate significant amounts of electricity each year.

Wind turbines and solar panels generally come with a warranty of

20 to 25 years, and while some solar cells have reached the 40-year mark, they typically degenerate at a pace of 0.5% efficiency per year.

The longer lifespan of tidal power makes it much more cost-competitive in the long run.

Disadvantages of Tidal EnergyLack of ResearchWhile the true effects of tidal barrages and turbines on the marine environment have not been fully explored, there has been some research into how barrages manipulate ocean levels and can have similar negative effects as hydroelectric power.

A 2010 report commissioned by the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association and titled ‘Environmental Effects of Tidal Energy Development’ identified several environmental effects, including the “alteration of currents and waves”, the “emission of electro-magnetic fields” (EMFs) and its effects on marine life, and the “toxicity of paints, lubricants and anti-fouling coatings” used in the manufacturing of equipment.

The Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) studied the effect of a tidal turbine at Strangford Lough off the coast of Northern Ireland. The PNNL’s Marine Sciences Lab was particularly interested in how the tidal turbine affected the local harbor seals, grey seals, and harbor porpoises that inhabit the area. The Atlantis-manufactured turbine studied was able to turn off when larger mammals approached.

However, there is still a need for further research.

“The ocean’s natural ebb and flow can be an abundant, constant energy source. But before we can place power devices in the water, we need to know how they might impact the marine environment,” said PNNL oceanographer Andrea Copping in a research paper.

“We have to prove beforehand that there is no impact, and we cannot. We have no concrete proof, just theories based on existing knowledge and computer modelling.”[3]

The Impact of EMF EmissionsElectro-magnetic emissions might also disrupt the sensitive marine life. Fellow PNNL marine ecologist

Jeff Ward said the organization was observing how EMFs damage the ability of juvenile Coho salmon to recognize and evade predators, or the negative impact on Dungeness crabs to detect odors through their antennules. They are also observing whether sea life is attracted or repelled by EMFs in general.

Ward said at the Oceans 2010 conference: “We really don’t know if the animals will be affected or not. There’s surprisingly little comprehensive research to say for sure.”[4]

While there has not been much research into the effects of EMFs, a European Commission study in 2015 found that EMFs could also have an impact on the migratory routes of sea life in the area.

Particular species that are susceptible to EMFs are sharks, skates, rays, crustaceans, whales, dolphins, bony fish, and marine turtles. Many of these animals use natural magnetic fields to navigate their environment.

The most conclusive study, according to the European Commission’s ‘Environmental impacts of noise, vibrations and electromagnetic emissions from marine renewable energy’, was an observation of migration in eels. The study found that the EMF caused the eels to divert from their instinctual migratory route, but “the individuals were not diverted too long and resumed their original trajectory”.

Another experiment found that benthic elasmobranchs – which includes sharks, rays and skates – were attracted to a source of EMF emitted from a subsea umbilical. Again, there was no conclusive evidence of any cumulative, detrimental effects.

High Construction costThere’s no avoiding the fact that tidal power holds one of the heaviest up-front price tags. The proposed Swansea Bay Tidal Lagoon project in Wales, UK, is priced at £1.3bn ($1.67bn). The aforementioned Sihwa Lake Tidal Power Station cost $560m, and the La Rance cost 620 million francs back in 1966. Using an online conversion and inflation calculator, this is equal to roughly $940m in 2018.


COVER STORY

In comparison, The Tengger Desert Solar Park cost around $530m for a total installed capacity of 850MW, making it more cost-efficient than Sihwa Lake, at 254MW total capacity. Likewise, the Roscoe Wind Farm cost around $1bn for an output of 781MW, compared to the Swansea Bay tidal project that is expected to generate around 320MW in total.

While long-term generation costs are relatively good compared to other renewable energy systems, the initial construction cost makes investing in tidal energy a particularly risky venture.

Firstly, installing a tidal system is technologically challenging. Manufacturers are competing against the moving ocean, and the equipment and technical knowledge needed to successfully construct the system is typically very expensive, especially compared to a wind or solar farm.

The second expense relates to the point made in the previous section. Companies managing a tidal power system need to conduct continuous analysis into the effect it has on the specific environment in which they are operating. This requires research and assessment from environmentalists, marine biologists, and geographical experts to mitigate the destruction of

sensitive ecosystems, which can be costly.

However, Oregon State University associate professor of energy systems Ted Brekken remains certain that technological progression will help to mitigate some of these costs, telling Yale Environment 360: “The technology has kept moving forward, which is good news. But the big issue is to get the cost down. Right now, there is the reality of surviving while we get there.

“At some point, all the easy, cheap installations for wind and solar will be done. And then it’s ocean energy that’s next in line.”

OCEAN THERMAL ENERGY

How Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion Works.

(Photo Credits to Makai Ocean Engineering)


COVER STORY

Ocean thermal energy (also known as Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion – OTEC) is a process or technology for producing energy by harnessing the temperature differences (thermal gradients) between ocean surface waters and deep ocean waters.

Energy from the sun heats the surface water of the ocean. In tropical regions, surface water can be much warmer than deep water. This temperature difference can be used to produce electricity and to desalinate ocean water. Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) systems use a temperature difference (of at least 77° Fahrenheit) to power a turbine to produce electricity. Warm surface water is pumped through an evaporator containing a working fluid. The vaporized fluid drives a turbine/generator. The vaporized fluid is turned back to a liquid in a condenser cooled with cold ocean water pumped from deeper in the ocean. OTEC systems using seawater as the working fluid can use the condensed water to produce desalinated water.

Cold seawater is an integral part of each of the three types of OTEC systems: closed-cycle, open-cycle, and hybrid. To operate, the cold seawater must be brought to the surface. The primary approaches are active pumping and desalination. Desalinating seawater near the sea floor lowers its density, which causes it to rise to the surface.

Ocean Thermal Energy Technology.

(Photo Credits to Makai Ocean

Engineering)

The alternative to costly pipes to bring condensing cold water to the surface is to pump vaporized low boiling point fluid into the depths to be condensed, thus reducing pumping volumes and reducing technical and environmental problems and lowering costs.

CLOSED-CYCLE

Closed-cycle systems use fluid with a low boiling point, such as ammonia (having a boiling point around -33°C at atmospheric pressure), to power a turbine to generate electricity. Warm surface seawater is pumped through a heat exchanger to vaporize the fluid. The expanding vapor turns the turbo-generator. Cold water, pumped through a second heat exchanger, condenses the vapor into a liquid, which is then recycled through the system.

In 1979, the Natural Energy Laboratory and several private-sector partners developed the "mini OTEC" experiment, which achieved the first successful at-sea production of net electrical power from closed-cycle OTEC. The mini OTEC vessel was moored 1.5 miles (2.4 km) off the Hawaiian coast and produced enough net electricity to illuminate the ship's light bulbs and run its computers and television.

OPEN-CYCLE

Open-cycle OTEC uses warm surface water directly to make electricity. The warm seawater is first pumped into a low-pressure container, which causes it to boil. In some schemes, the expanding vapor drives a low-pressure turbine attached to an electrical generator. The vapor, which has left its salt and other contaminants in the low-pressure container, is pure fresh water. It is condensed into a liquid by exposure to cold temperatures from deep-ocean water. This method produces desalinized fresh water, suitable for drinking water, irrigation or aquaculture.

In other schemes, the rising vapor is used in a gas lift technique of lifting water to significant heights. Depending on the embodiment, such vapor lift pump techniques generate power from a hydroelectric turbine either before or after the pump is used.

In 1984, the Solar Energy Research Institute (now known as the National Renewable Energy Laboratory) developed a vertical-spout evaporator to convert warm seawater into low-pressure steam for open-cycle plants. Conversion efficiencies were as high as 97% for seawater-to-steam conversion (overall steam production would only be a few percent of the incoming water). In May 1993, an open-cycle OTEC plant at Keahole Point, Hawaii, produced close to 80 kW of electricity during a net power-producing experiment.[46] This broke the record of 40 kW set by a Japanese system in 1982.


HYBRID

A hybrid cycle combines the features of the closed- and open-cycle systems. In a hybrid, warm seawater enters a vacuum chamber and is flash-evaporated, similar to the open-cycle evaporation process. The steam vaporizes the ammonia working fluid of a closed-cycle loop on the other side of an ammonia vaporizer. The vaporized fluid then drives a turbine to produce electricity. The steam condenses within the heat exchanger and provides desalinated water.

“The United States became involved in OTEC research in 1974 with the establishment of the Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaii Authority. The laboratory is one of the world's leading test facilities for OTEC technology. The laboratory operated a 250 kilowatt (kW) demonstration OTEC plant for six years in the 1990s. The United States Navy supported the development of a 105 kW demonstration OTEC plant at the laboratory site. This facility became operational in 2015 and supplies electricity to the local electricity grid.

Other larger OTEC systems are in development or planned in several countries, mostly to supply electricity and desalinated water for island communities.”[5]

Ocean energy could provide a viable contribution to future energy mix. It is an emerging technology that has been generating interest as an alternative renewable energy source. There are numerous energy devices in various stages of testing and demonstration, however there is limited published data on its viability as an alternate energy source.

Given the apparent advantages of ocean energy and the fact that it is a very new technology, we wanted to understand what is the sustainable level at which this resource could be used for energy supply, and whether it could be competitive with other energy technologies.

REFERENCE:

[1] Encyclopaedia Britannica[2] Ocean Energy Council, Inc., www.oceanenergycouncil.com[3,4] Power Technology, 530 Little Collins St., Melbourne 3000, Victoria, Australia[5] U.S. Energy Information Administration, www.eia.gov

COVER STORY



Luzon – First Gen Corporation, Brgy. Sta. Rita, Batangas City

Santa Rita, San Lorenzo, San Gabriel, and Avion Power PlantsFirst Gen stands

out as the Philippines’ leading clean and renewable energy provide, whose portfolio of power plants runs on renewable energy sources, such as geothermal, hydro, wind and solar; as well as natural gas, considered the cleanest form of fossil fuel.

These First Gen power plants, which have 3,492 megawatts in total installed capacity, operate in all three Philippine grids in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. As of the end of 2019, they accounted for 20 percent of the country’s gross power generation.

First Gen, through subsidiaries, operated and wholly owns four natural gas-fired power plants: the 1000-MW Santa Rita, the 500-MW San Lorenzo, the 420-MW San Gabriel, and the 97-MW Avion power plants. Two of them – the Santa Rita power Plant of First Gas Power Corporation and the san Lorenzo plant of GFP Corp. – helped jumpstart the local natural gas industry by committing to buy and use Malampaya natural gas for power generation. The commitment assured the viability of the US$4.5-billion Malampaya Deepwater Gas-to-Power Project, considered the country’s single-biggest investment to date. Natural gas from Malampaya now provides the fuel for all natural gas-fired power plants of First Gen. Located within the First Gen Clean Energy Complex in Batangas city, these First Gen gas plants accounted for 58 percent of First Gen’s total installed capacity as of 2019.

LET us travel to discover what POWER these

PLANTS give us!

Santa Rita and San Lorenzo Power Plants

TRAVEL


TRAVEL

Visayas – Cadiz Solar Power Plant

The construction of Cadiz Solar Power Plant started on July 2015 employing

2,500 Negrenses. The plant was developed by Helios Solar Energy Corp., a joint venture between Thailand-based Soleq Solar Co. and Gregorio Araneta Inc., and was commissioned by Singapore-based Equis Funds Group.

Cadiz Solar Power Plant has a 132.5 MW-capacity, the facility located in a 176-hectare (430-acre) land at Hacienda Paz, Barangay Tinampa-an, Cadiz City, Negros Occidental. It is the largest solar power facility in Southeast Asia upon its commissioning on March 3, 2016


Mindanao – Pulangi IV, Maramag, Bukidnon

The Pulangi IV Hydroelectric Plant is a 255-MW hydroelectric power plant located in Maramag, Bukidnon. With three (3) generating units, the Pulangi IV HEP is a run-off the river type of power plant using the most advanced hydroelectric power technology. It was commercially operated on December 21,

1985.

Congratulations to IIEE’s Nominees for the Professional Regulation

Commission 2020

OUTSTANDING PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR

in the Field of Electrical Engineering:

Engr. ANGEL M. DE VERAEngr. JUSTO MA. J. LOPEZ

Engr. ROBERT U. MABULAY – 2020 OUTSTANDING

PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR in

the Field of Electrical Engineering

Our Nominees are actively involved and serving IIEE

as Former National Officer.Former Regional Governor

and Committee Officer/Member.


shing

cabaraban

Jojie

BAUTRO

juna

sarroza

marli

DE

FIESTA

ki

m

DE

CASTRO


Kb

Llamas

in IIEEWomen


edelmira

mapile

anging

FUERTES

alma

larce

jenny

arada

rose

rocio

marissa

cabugao


Behind the success of great men are their women. We at IIEE are proud of being a supporter of gender equality. Our “Women in IIEE” are not only the members/officers of the Institute for they also include the women in our support group from the different

secretariat/administrative offices and they also include the women from the ladies auxiliary. All these women contribute to the camaraderie, rapport, and harmony at IIEE. You may meet them at the National Office, during convention/conferences, and at IIEE’s community service activities. IIEE is not only a man’s world, for we have “Women in IIEE” too.


Health

MENTAL HEALTH

What is mental health?It is an expression we use every day, so it might surprise you that the term ‘mental health’ is frequently misunderstood.

‘Mental health’ is often used as a substitute for mental health conditions – such as depression, anxiety conditions, schizophrenia, and others.

According to the World Health Organization, however, mental health is “a state of well-being in which every individual realizes his or her own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to her or his community.”

Mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being. It affects how we think, feel, and act. It also helps determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make healthy choices. Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood.

Although the terms are often used interchangeably, poor mental health and mental illness are not the same things. A person can experience poor mental health and not be diagnosed with a mental illness. Likewise, a person diagnosed with a mental illness can experience periods of physical, mental, and social well-being.

Well-being is a positive outcome that is meaningful for people and for many sectors of society, because it tells us that people perceive that their lives are going well. Good living conditions (e.g., housing, employment) are fundamental to well-being. There is no consensus around a single definition of well-being, but there is general agreement that at minimum, well-being includes the presence of positive emotions and moods (e.g., contentment, happiness), the absence of negative emotions (e.g., depression, anxiety), satisfaction with life, fulfillment and positive functioning. In simple terms, well-being can be described as judging life positively and feeling good.


Health


Why is mental health important for overall health?

Mental and physical health are equally important components of overall health. Mental illness, especially depression, increases the risk

for many types of physical health problems, particularly long-lasting conditions like stroke, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. Similarly, the presence of chronic conditions can increase the risk for mental illness.

Mental health is about wellness rather than illness. To make things a bit clearer, some experts have tried coming up with different terms to explain the difference between ‘mental health’ and ‘mental health conditions’. Phrases such as ‘good mental health’, ‘positive mental health’, ‘mental wellbeing’, ‘subjective wellbeing’ and even ‘happiness’ have been proposed by various people to emphasize that mental health is about wellness rather than illness. While some say this has been helpful, others argue that using more words to describe the same thing just adds to the confusion.

As a result, others have tried to explain the difference by talking about a continuum where mental health is at one end of the spectrum – represented by feeling good and functioning well – while mental health conditions (or mental illness) are at the other – represented by symptoms that affect people’s thoughts, feelings or behavior.

Research shows that high levels of mental health are associated with increased learning, creativity and productivity, more pro-social behavior and positive social relationships, and with improved physical health and life expectancy. In contrast, mental health conditions can cause distress, impact on day-to-day functioning and relationships, and are associated with poor physical health and premature death from suicide.

But it is important to remember that mental health is complex. The fact that someone is not experiencing a mental health condition doesn’t necessarily mean their mental health is flourishing. Likewise, it’s possible to be diagnosed with a mental health condition while feeling well in many aspects of life.

Ultimately, mental health is about being cognitively, emotionally and socially healthy – the way we think, feel and develop relationships - and not merely the absence of a mental health condition.

What is mental illness?Mental illness, also called mental health disorders, refers to a wide range of mental health conditions. Mental illness affects a person’s thinking, feeling, mood or behavior, such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia. Such conditions may be occasional or long-lasting (chronic) and affect someone’s ability to relate to others and function each day.

Many people have mental health concerns from time to time. But a mental health concern becomes a mental illness when ongoing signs and symptoms cause frequent stress and affect your ability to function.

A mental illness can make you miserable and can cause problems in your daily life, such as at school or work or in relationships. In most cases, symptoms can be managed with a combination of medications and psychotherapy.

www.chicagohealthonline.com



Health

CausesMental illnesses, in general, are thought to be caused by a variety of genetic and environmental factors:

• Inherited traits. Mental illness is more common in people whose blood relatives also have a mental illness. Certain genes may increase your risk of developing a mental illness, and your life situation may trigger it.• Environmental exposures before birth. Exposure to environmental stressors, inflammatory conditions, toxins, alcohol or drugs while in the womb can sometimes be linked to mental illness.

• Brain chemistry. Neurotransmitters are naturally occurring brain chemicals that carry signals to other parts of your brain and body. When the neural networks involving these chemicals are impaired, the function of nerve receptors and nerve systems change, leading to depression and other emotional disorders.

Risk factorsCertain factors may increase your risk of developing a mental illness, including:

• A history of mental illness in a blood relative, such as a parent or sibling.

• Stressful life situations, such as financial problems, a loved one's death or a divorce.

• An ongoing (chronic) medical condition, such as diabetes.

• Brain damage as a result of a serious injury (traumatic brain injury), such as a violent blow to the head.

• Traumatic experiences, such as military combat or assault.

• Use of alcohol or recreational drugs.• A childhood history of abuse or neglect.• Few friends or few healthy relationships.• A previous mental illness.

Mental illness is common. About 1 in 5 adults has a mental illness in any given year. Mental illness can begin at any age, from childhood through later adult years, but most cases begin earlier in life.

The effects of mental illness can be temporary or long lasting. You also can have more than one mental health disorder at the same time. For example, you may have depression and a substance use disorder.

SymptomsSigns and symptoms of mental illness can vary,

depending on the disorder, circumstances and other factors. Mental illness symptoms can affect emotions, thoughts and behaviors.

Examples of signs and symptoms include:

• Feeling sad or down• Confused thinking or reduced ability to concentrate• Excessive fears or worries, or extreme feelings of guilt• Extreme mood changes of highs and lows• Withdrawal from friends and activities• Significant tiredness, low energy or problems sleeping

• Detachment from reality (delusions), paranoia or hallucinations• Inability to cope with daily problems or stress• Trouble understanding and relating to situations and to people• Problems with alcohol or drug use• Major changes in eating habits• Sex drive changes• Excessive anger, hostility or violence• Suicidal thinking

Sometimes symptoms of a mental health disorder appear as physical problems, such as stomach pain, back pain, headaches, or other unexplained aches and pains.

ComplicationsMental illness is a leading cause of disability. Untreated mental illness can cause severe emotional, behavioral and physical health problems. Complications sometimes linked to mental illness include:

• Unhappiness and decreased enjoyment of life• Family conflicts• Relationship difficulties• Social isolation• Problems with tobacco, alcohol and other drugs• Missed work or school, or other problems related to work or school• Legal and financial problems• Poverty and homelessness• Self-harm and harm to others, including suicide or homicide• Weakened immune system, so your body has a hard time resisting infections• Heart disease and other medical conditions

PreventionThere's no sure way to prevent mental illness. However, if you have a mental illness, taking steps to control stress, to increase your resilience and to boost low self-esteem may help keep your symptoms under control. Follow these steps:

• Pay attention to warning signs. Work with your doctor or therapist to learn what might trigger your symptoms. Make a plan so that you know what to do if symptoms return. Contact your doctor or therapist if you notice any changes in symptoms or how you feel. Consider involving family members or friends to watch for warning signs.

Health

26 VOLUME XLIX 2020 Issue No. 3


• Get routine medical care. Don't neglect checkups or skip visits to your primary care provider, especially if you aren't feeling well. You may have a new health problem that needs to be treated, or you may be experiencing side effects of medication.

• Get help when you need it. Mental health conditions can be harder to treat if you wait until symptoms get bad. Long-term maintenance treatment also may help prevent a relapse of symptoms.

• Take good care of yourself. Sufficient sleep, healthy eating and regular physical activity are important. Try to maintain a regular schedule. Talk to your primary care provider if you have trouble sleeping or if you have questions about diet and physical activity.

If you have suicidal thoughts

Suicidal thoughts and behavior are common with some mental illnesses. If you think you may hurt yourself or attempt suicide, get help right away -

reach out to a close friend or loved one; contact a minister, spiritual leader

or someone else in your faith community; or call a suicide hotline number.

Suicidal thinking doesn't get better on its own — so get help.

Help a loved oneIf your loved one shows signs of mental illness, have an open and honest discussion with him/ her about your concerns. You may not be able to force someone to get professional care, but you can offer encouragement and support. You can also help your loved one find a qualified mental health professional and make an appointment. You may even be able to go along to the appointment.

If your loved one has done self-harm or is considering doing so, take the person to the hospital or call for help.

Reference:o beyondblue.org.auo cdc.govo mayoclinic.org

visit www.iiee.org.ph

Get our latest content from the Institute's

digital edition

THE ELECTRICAL ENGINEER



WHAT'S THE NEWS

NEA: POWER RESTORED IN PARTS OF BICOL REGION; DAMAGE TO POWER FACILITIES DUE TO 'ROLLY' REACHES P370 MILLIONsource: www.nea.gov.phPublished: 09 November 2020

Power has been restored in some areas in the Bicol region, the National Electrification Administration (NEA) said Monday, as the estimated cost of damage to power distribution facilities from Typhoon 'Rolly' has increased to P370 million.

As of 3 p.m. Monday (November 09), the NEA Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Department (DRRMD) reported that more than 1.39 million households in Bicol and other provinces ravaged by the typhoon now have electricity. This translates to 66.49 percent of the 2,091,796 affected consumers.

Electric cooperatives (ECs) in these affected areas and the 'Power Restoration Rapid Deployment’ Task Force Kapatid remain focused on restoring power to 700,948 households that are still without electricity.Last week, NEA Administrator Edgardo Masongsong traveled to Bicol to check on the operations of the ECs there. The NEA chief also spoke with the members of Task Force Kapatid and thanked them for their services to speed up the restoration activities in calamity-stricken areas.

Based on the latest monitoring of NEA DRRMD, power supply in 12 municipalities of Camarines Norte covered by Camarines Norte Electric Cooperative, Inc. (CANORECO) is now fully restored. Power situation in the province of Masbate, including Ticao Island, is also back to normal.In Catanduanes, the entire coverage area of the First Catanduanes Electric Cooperative, Inc. (FICELCO) is still for restoration.

In Camarines Sur, the Camarines Sur II Electric Cooperative, Inc. (CASURECO II) reported power has partially returned to Naga City and the municipalities of Pili, Milaor and Minalabac; while restoration is ongoing to the remaining six towns.

The Camarines Sur III Electric Cooperative, Inc. (CASURECO III) has also partially restored power distribution services to the municipalities of Bula and Baao, while Iriga City and other areas within its franchise are still for restoration.

The Camarines Sur IV Electric Cooperative, Inc. (CASURECO IV), meanwhile, reported it has partially reconnected the municipalities of Ocampo, Garchitorena, Goa, Lagonoy, Sagnay, San Jose, and Tigaon; while the remaining two towns are undergoing restoration.

Electricity is also partially restored in Legazpi City and the municipalities of Daraga, Rapu-Rapu, and Santo Domingo under the coverage area of the Albay Electric Cooperative, Inc. (ALECO/APEC).

For Sorsogon, the Sorsogon II Electric Cooperative (SORECO II) said power is fully restored to Castilla, Barcelona, Gubat, and Prieto Diaz; and partially restored to Sorsogon City, Donsol, and Pilar.

In CALABARZON area, the Quezon II Electric Cooperative, Inc. (QUEZELCO II), First Laguna Electric Cooperative, Inc. (FLECO), and Batangas I Electric Cooperative, Inc. (BATELEC I) are already back to normal operations.

The Quezon I Electric Cooperative, Inc. (QUEZELCO I), on the other hand, has restored power to 77.42 percent of consumers, while the Batangas II Electric Cooperative, Inc. (BATELEC II) has attained 99.42 percent restoration level.

In MIMAROPA, Romblon Electric Cooperative, Inc. (ROMELCO) has fully restored power to all affected households; while the Marinduque Electric Cooperative, Inc. (MARELCO) reported restoration is 68 percent complete.

In Eastern Visayas, power situation in areas covered by the Samar II Electric Cooperative, Inc. (SAMELCO II) is also normal; while the Northern Samar Electric Cooperative, Inc. (NORSAMELCO) is 99.92 percent energized.

NEA: INITIAL DAMAGE TO POWER CO-OPS FROM 'QUINTA' REACHES P50.92 MILLIONPublished: 30 October 2020

The National Electrification Administration (NEA) said the initial cost of damage incurred by the electric cooperatives (ECs) from Typhoon 'Quinta' (international name: Molave) has reached P50.922 million.

The Oriental Mindoro Electric Cooperative, Inc. (ORMECO) was hardest hit with P14.659 million in initial damage, based on the monitoring of the NEA Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Department (DRRMD) as of Thursday (October 29).

It was followed by the Camarines Sur IV Electric Cooperative, Inc. (CASURECO IV) at P9.479 million, Marinduque Electric Cooperative, Inc. (MARELCO) at P8.476 million, Camarines Sur III Electric Cooperative, Inc. (CASURECO III) at P5.523 million, and Camarines Sur II Electric Cooperative, Inc. (CASURECO II) at P4.585 million.Meanwhile, power situation in the coverage areas of Cagayan II Electric Cooperative, Inc. (CAGELCO


DOE ASSESSES CATANDUANES, ASSURES THAT NO PROVINCE WILL BE LEFT BEHINDsource: www.doe.gov.phpublished: December 1,2020

II) and Camarines Norte Electric Cooperative, Inc. (CANORECO) has returned to normal after completing the restoration of electric service to all its affected consumers on Wednesday (October 28).The NEA DRRMD report also showed that about 1,391,349 or 62.61 percent of the 2,222,330 affected households have their power restored, bringing the number of households without power as of Thursday to 830,981 under the coverage areas of 19 electric cooperatives (ECs).Line workers, engineers, and other EC personnel are continuing their work to restore power to the remaining households, which are located in the provinces of Batangas, Quezon, Marinduque, Occidental Mindoro, Oriental Mindoro, Romblon, Palawan, Camarines Sur, Masbate, Sorsogon, Albay, and Catanduanes.

(ST) Rolly, as part of Energy Secretary Alfonso G. Cusi's directive to exert all efforts to assist the energy family in fully restoring power in the Bicol region at the soonest possible time.

The province of Catanduanes is among the most affected and heavily damaged of all the areas in ST Rolly's path.

"With other areas slowly getting back on their feet, we must double our efforts in assisting those that need more help, particularly the Catanduanes province. The First Catanduanes Electric Cooperative or FICELCO urgently needs our full support, and we are thankful that the entire energy family remains up to the task of lighting up all affected households," Secretary Cusi expressed.

Energy Undersecretary Felix William B. Fuentebella, together with National Electrification Administration (NEA) Deputy Administrator Artis Nikki Tortola and National Power Corporation Vice President Rogel Teves led the assessment activities and discussions with concerned stakeholders on power restoration strategies.

Undersecretary Fuentebella and NEA Deputy Administrator Tortola visited Catanduanes Governor Cua to brief him on the actions being taken by the energy family, specifically the support of electric cooperatives that are part of NEA's Task Force Kapatid. Governor Cua expressed his gratitude to the energy family.

ROLLY'S GROUND ZERO

NPC Vice President Teves reported that power generation facilities in the province are ready to dispatch power as long as they are cleared by the distribution utilities, noting that the northern part of Catanduanes already have power, with demand reaching up to two megawatts.

He added that Balongbong Hydro Power Plant is getting ready to provide additional power supply, and that the 69-kilovolt transmission line is ready to deliver power.

NEA Deputy Administrator Tortola, on the other hand, explained that the Task Force Kapatid has greatly augmented the restoration forces of FICELCO. According to the Deputy Administrator, FICELCO, in partnership with the Philippine Electric Cooperatives Association (PHILRECA), has managed to speed up the restoration in the affected areas.

FICELCO General Manager Raul V. Zafe reported that almost 39 electric cooperatives with 322 personnel are already on the ground to help in the power restoration activities. To date, the level of energization stands at 20.21%, with the Gigmoto, and San Miguel areas still needing to be energized.

Undersecretary Fuentebella stated that the energization of Catanduanes has been ramping up given the strategies that are currently being implemented.

"The energy family will continue looking into more comprehensive strategies to assist Catanduanes in building back better," Undersecretary Fuentebella said.

“Looking outward and moving forward – this is how we electrical practitioners can bravely face this new world. With passion and purpose. With grit and resolve. With compassion and with courage as we move boldly in empowering our members and the electrical profession in the most profound way.”A noteworthy part of the message to the IIEE of the 2020 IIEE National President, Engr. Rodrigo T. Pecolera.

FEATURES


iiee.org.ph VOLUME XLVIX 2020 Issue No. 3 31iiee.org.ph VOLUME XLVIX 2020 Issue No. 3 31


As early as the first quarter of the year, the Board of Governors and the Convention Bureau were already trying to

come up with a timely and practical plan regarding the conduct of this year’s convention. After several deliberations and arrangements, the team worked on it and finally last November, almost 5000 delegates joined the Institute as it records another momentous occasion.

The format of the 45th ANC was basically the same with the previous conventions. One obvious difference is that it was done virtually. As usual, simultaneous events were conducted, the 3E XPO from November 24 to November 30; and the 45th ANC from November 27 to November 28. Three technical session rooms were opened. But it was neither at the huge function halls and function rooms nor meeting rooms of the SMX Convention Center. This time, IIEE offered a venue beyond these halls, it was done via Zoom, an online virtual room application.

45th Virtual Annual National Convention

Words by: Micah Dylan C. Crisologo

“This COVID19 pandemic has both created deep economic, social and infrastructure problems this 2020; on the other hand, it also presented opportunities through which communities can innovate to improve our life and create better, people-centric and environment-friendly spaces.”, quoted from the message to the IIEE of the Convention Bureau Director and Vice President for Internal Affairs, Engr. Eugenio F. Araullo. He added a Winston Churchill saying, “Never let a good crisis go to waste.” To appreciate these opportunities, the Convention Bureau filled the technical session rooms with discussions about new technologies and innovations, new safety protocols, new regulations, new trends and new business ideas, or simply the new normal brought about by the pandemic. Topics were lined up accordingly per session room. To name a few of the topics, there are discussions about Electric Vehicle, Grid, Electric Utility, Safety, and many more.

One of the most anticipated segments of the convention is the Plant Tour. But again, due to the pandemic and for the safety and welfare of the interested participants, the tour was also done virtually. Four plants were featured. Though it was presented virtually via audio/visual presentations, the tours were in a way seemed like physical tours thanks to the countless support and effort of the employees of the featured plants.

Certificate of appreciation was awarded to the speakers and sponsors to recognize the knowledge, time and effort they have exerted while preparing and presenting the topic requested by the Bureau. Undeniably, the Committees and the Convention Bureau, also shared immeasurable contributions on the success of the event.

Even after series of problem-solving meetings and dry-runs were conducted during the preparations, bits of glitches were still encountered on the event proper.

“This COVID19 pandemic has both created deep economic, social and infrastructure problems this 2020; on the other hand, it also presented opportunities through which communities can innovate to improve our life and create better, people-centric and environment-friendly spaces.”

FEATURES


“I would say yung old adage before is “TIME is gold”, but now it could be said that “DATA is gold”

Nevertheless, the convention was still rated very satisfactory based on the evaluation forms submitted by the participants.

As part of the program, lucky delegates won mobile phone, laptop, television, tablet and gift cheques during the raffle draws. Since the sessions were done simultaneously at Zoom rooms 1, 2 and 3, the recordings of the technical presentations were made available for the participants after the event. As this is the very first virtual Annual National Convention, comments, suggestions and recommendations were listed for the benefit of the future events and activities of the IIEE. Closely following the program of activities, from registration, to the Opening Ceremony, to the Technical Sessions and GMM, until the Closing Ceremony, the IIEE made another history.

Speaking about the 2020 challenges and accomplishments and some of the 2021 plans and advocacies, the Exhibit Bureau Director, the Vice President for External Affairs, the Institute’s newly elected National President, Engr. Allan Anthony P. Alvarez, delivered his closing remarks. Part of his remarks, he mentioned the “O” of the three-words-meaning G-O-T, O for obligations. “I would say yung old adage before is “TIME is gold”, but now it could be said that “DATA is gold”. Emphasizing that data is the key to the future that only the members has the power and obligation to partake.To officially close the convention, Engr. Rodrigo T. Pecolera once again greeted everyone a good evening and rang the gong.

FEATURES

Words by: Emmanuel P. Allada

TURNOVER CEREMONY


As 2020 is about to come to an end, the Institute of Integrated Electrical Engineers of the Philippines, Inc. (IIEE) continues its tradition to celebrate the year and formally pass the leadership to the Organization’s upcoming president and to recognize the 2020 IIEE National

President as an upcoming member of the Council of Former National Presidents (COFNAP) at Sequoia Hotel last 12 December 2020, which was also attended by some IIEE personalities via Zoom.

The program started with a Thanksgiving Mass by Officiating Priest Fr. ______it is followed by the singing of the national anthem and the IIEE Hymn. 2020 Vice President- External Affairs Engr. Allan Anthony Alvarez gave an opening remark which was followed by the acknowledgement of guests present at the venue and joining via Zoom by 2020 National Secretary Engr. Roland P. Vasquez.

For his valedictory speech, 2020 IIEE National President Engr. Rodrigo T. Pecolera looked back at the challenges that the IIEE faced during this year which was brought by the COVID-19 pandemic and how the organization adapted to the new normal to serve its members despite the situation. During his speech, he recognized the committees who worked hard for the betterment of the organization and the chapters who went extra mile in serving not just its members but also the Filipino people during this trying times.

After his speech. Engr. Pecolera passed the IIEE Flag, Toblerone, and Bell and Gavel to the upcoming IIEE National President Engr. Allan Anthony Alvarez who gave his acceptance speech afterwards. Engr. Alvarez shared some memories with Engr. Pecolera when they were

regional governors of Southern Luzon and Metro Manila regions, respectively. He also shared some insights to look forward to this coming 2021.As the night progressed, 1999 IIEE National President Engr. Antonio S. Herrera together with the 2020 COFNAP Chairman Engr. Gregiorio Y. Guevarra recognized Engr. Pecolera as the newest member of the prestigious group that serves as advisers of the current leaders of the IIEE. Following the addition of Engr. Pecolera to the COFNAP, Engr. Herrera announced that Engr. Gregorio Y. Guevarra will serve as the deputy chairman of the COFNAP for the first 6 months of 2021 before passing the chairmanship to 2012 IIEE National President Engr. Jules S. Alcantara.

Attendees both live and virtually had fun as they exchanged gifts and won raffle prizes. As the night progressed, it turned livelier as the singer Patricia made sure that the guests will be mesmerized with her singing


FEATURES

prowess followed by Prinsipe Makata knocking off the guests with his witty punchlines. Beatbox artist wowed the crowd with his international level of beatboxing. The program ended with an impressive and heart-warming performance by a “light artist”.

2020 may have been difficult and challenging for the organization, but this year will be considered as a significant one because IIEE went digital. This year, IIEE conducted its first Virtual National Midyear Convention, Virtual Annual National Convention, and shifted to E-Voting for the election.

2020 may have come to an end but this is surely a year to remember for each and everyone associated/connected with the organization.


PHOTOSYNTHETIC

BIOELECTRICITYCasanova, Anne Sharmaine C. | Manalo, Jochrist Ian A. | De Galicia, Joseph M.

Comia, Reginald M. | Aguila, Caryl R. | Data, Leslie C.

Electrical Engineering Department, College of Engineering University of Batangas

ABSTRACT

World’s energy consumption had a prosperous trend over the years. Most

of the energy we use come from non-renewable sources whose consumption can severely damage human lives and nature through its drastic aftermath like global warming, ozone layer depletion, and environmental pollution. In line with the world’s serious search of an alternative energy source, the researchers came up with the idea of improving the technology of generating electricity from plants through Plant Microbial Fuel Cell. They focused on the sustainability of the output of the Fuel Cell which is the main problem of all the existing PMFC design. Through series of experiments, they determine the suitable plant and the best anode- cathode combination to be used to maximize the energy production of the Fuel Cell which they called Photosynthetic Bioelectricity. The researchers also tested the capability of Impressed Current Cathodic Protection (ICCP) to prevent the corrosion of conductors used. The output power of the Photosynthetic Bioelectricity is boosted using the Buck Booster. They were able to generate an average of 12 V using only 70 individual plant cells, much less than the previous design which used 150. The reliability of the Photosynthetic Bioelectricity’s output is evaluated by running simple loads like a 4W bulb and phone charging.

Keywords: bioelectricity, cathodic protection, fuel cell, photosynthesis, PMFC

1.0 INTRODUCTION

Energy consumption within the world had a prosperous trend over the years. Energy sources are classified into two: renewable sources and non-renewable sources. Most of the energy we use come from non-renewable sources such as nuclear and fossil energy. Consumption of fossil fuels has severely damaged human lives and nature through its drastic aftermath like global warming, ozone layer depletion, and atmospheric pollution. Being a nonrenewable resource, the availability of fossil fuel is diminishing, this, as well as increase in energy consumption, climate change and environmental pollution are enough reasons to find new technologies based on natural resources for a safe, sustainable, and renewable energy production. Countries around the world have made remarkable efforts to find a solution for energy crisis by turning their eyes into renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and water.

Electricity consumption is rising continuously and the current major source of electrical energy production in the world is thermal power plants. Though it plays a big role in the world’s energy production, it is still very evident that it has harmful effects on the environment. The emission of toxic gases like carbon monoxide and sulfur dioxide greatly contributes to the worsening global warming and greenhouse effect.

Various researches have been initiated to utilize renewable energy sources. Alternative energy sources such as solar, wind, geothermal,

water, etc. have emerged from these studies. One of these resources with high potential and availability is plants. Plant-Microbial Fuel Cell is now becoming a viable source of renewable energy. According to Calkins, Umasankar, & Ramajara (2013) in their article in the Journal of Energy and Environmental Science, plants use energy from sunlight to split water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen in photosynthesis. This process yields electrons, which then help the plants make sugars for its own growth. For decades, researchers have dug around possible ways of drawing power from this plant microbial metabolism. In 1970’s, a device called, microbial fuel cells, that generate electricity from the chemical reaction catalyzed by microbes has been discovered. This device can derive energy from plants without killing them. The study of Azri, Sadi, & Benhabyles (2018) indicates plant microbial fuel cell (PMFC) as an emerging technology that converts solar energy into ecofriendly bioelectricity without any emissions. It operates under the principle of photosynthesis where the plant root system releases organic compounds and electrochemically active bacteria that consume the substrate located around the plants roots. Microorganisms oxidize organic matter secreted by the plant via photosynthesis and release electrons to the anode which then migrate to the cathode. This process results in electrical power generation without the need for harvesting the plant. At the beginning of the experiment, the plants were vital and showed normal root and leaf growth, but the current generation is slowly declining owing

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to several probable reasons like anode state, bacteria limitations at catalysis and plant vitality according to the season.In the study of Strik, Timmers, Helder, Hamelers, & Buisman (2011), they used Reed manna grass as the energy source of their microbial fuel cell. They were able to achieve a maximum electrical power production of 67mW per square meter surface. They have proven that Plant- Microbial Fuel Cell is nondestructive to plants since it does not compete with plants for food.

Bioelectrogenesis is the generation of electricity by living organisms, a phenomenon that belongs to the science of electric physiology. It makes electricity generation possible by maintaining a voltage imbalance from an electrical potential difference between the intracellular and extracellular space. This generates an electrical potential from the uneven charge separation created. Photosynthetic bacteria can be used effectively in an MFC for electric power generation. One advantage of using photosynthetic bacteria in MFCs, as stated in the study of Chiranjeevi, Kumar, Kumar, & Mohan (2019), is the elimination of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere due to photosynthesis coupled with bioelectricity generation.

The study “Catalyst Development of Microbial Fuel Cells for Renewable Energy Production” by Azuma & Ojima (2018) focused on microbial fuel cells (MFCs) that convert energy from organic matters into electrical energy using microorganisms. Generation of renewable energy using waste biomass as a raw material accustomed a relatively low-cost and safe device. Advancement on fuel efficiency such as electrode materials was being examined to achieve the main objective of the study which is to enhance the efficiency of the fuel cells by concentrating on the microorganisms that can be used as a catalyst. MFCs have not reached the desirable level of power and it may be difficult for the MFCs to be the main power supply, but it seems possible to use them as an auxiliary power supply for the infrastructure that is not well developed. Soon, if the superior power-generating function of these microorganisms can be integrated into a microbial cell using the synthetic biological method, the ability of the microbial catalyst will theatrically increase.

In the study conducted by Alvaira & Anonuevo (2018), they were able to fabricate a plant microbial fuel cell composed of 300 individual Bichetti grass fuel cells connected in series parallel. The output voltage and current accumulated was not used to supply any load but it proved that Plant Microbial Fuel Cell can be used as a renewable energy source. Their study paved the way of other studies for the development of PMFC technology.

After a year, another attempt in utilizing Plant Microbial Fuel Cell as a substantial source of electricity is conducted. According to the study of Arandia, De Castro, & Mendoza (2017), the direct conversion of organic matter produced in the process of photosynthesis to electrons is possible using bacteria. Fuel cell must be free from oxygen so that the electrons will be transferred to the electrodes assigned to gather them. The electrodes are composed of anode which attracts most of the electrons and the cathode which combines electrons with protons and oxygen to produce water. They used 400 cells of Bichetti grass connected in series parallel as the medium in generating electricity. They were able to obtain 12.72V and 90mA on the first day until the third day of prototype evaluation. During the fourth day, the output started to decrease continuously until it is not enough to charge the battery.The study of Acuna, Delos Reyes, Fejer, & Samson (2018) used Bichetti Grass as the main energy source of their PMFC. Their PMFC arrived at a total output of 9.42V and 1.1mA. The output voltage increases with the application of fertilizer while the current stays constant. They were able to power a solar charge controller with a rating of 12V and a smartphone was able to be charged through the charge controller. After several days, a decline in the output voltage and current was observed and it gradually increase until it is not able to supply the charge controller. They have discovered that the decline in the output voltage and current is due to soil exhaustion and electrodes corrosion.Lamaka (2018) discussed in his article “Performance Boost for Primary Magnesium Cells using Iron Complexing Agents as Electrolyte Additives” that the self-corrosion of magnesium anodes is due to two major phenomena. First, the electrochemical potential of Mg is highly negative, and lies lower than the electrochemical stability of

water causing its reduction and self-corrosion. Second, Mg is also prone to corrosion when accompanied by noble impurities such as Fe, Cu or Ni, because they allow for high exchange current densities in the hydrogen evolution reaction and cause highly localized micro-galvanically induced corrosion of Mg thereby triggering the growth of corrosion products on the surface of anodes that block the electrodes. Self-corrosion of magnesium leads to a major disadvantage: a decrease in utilization efficiency of the anode and a low voltage caused by an IR drop across the layer of corrosion products.

Corrosion of electrodes is inevitable. According to the British Standard for Cathodic Protection (1991) corrosion is accompanied by the flow of an electric current from metal to electrolyte due to the movement of positive ions into the electrolyte and of electrons into the metal. Measuring the potentials of two different metals with respect to an electrolyte as shown in Figure 1, and metal A is more negative, then it will act as an anode and will be corroded, while metal C will act as the cathode. This corrosion will be reduced by means of cathodic protection. Cathodic protection is achieved by reducing the potential of the metal subject to corrosion by supplying electrons. The current driving these electrons, known as cathodic current, is to be sustained by the external source. This is made possible by connecting an external DC source to a reference anode which will provide the required current density to all parts of the anode being protected.

Figure 1: Formation of a cell.


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Every research conducted have their own developments and progress, but problems are still discernible. Past research studies serve as a stepping-stone in harnessing plants as a stable energy source. They show that this technology offers only a small amount of power production. There is a need to increase the output power generated from the Plant Microbial Fuel Cell. Another issue of this technology is that it needs plenty of plants to acquire a small output, which cause their study to be a bit costly. Previous studies used 150-400 plants to accumulate 12V output. In addition to this, all the previous studies led to a major issue- the output voltage and current are not sustainable. The output is declining relative to time. The proponents of this study plan to resolve these gaps encountered by the previous ones. They plan to look for plants that can produce higher output so that they can minimize the number of individual plant cells that they are going to use. This will eliminate the high cost of the project. The researchers also turn to the effect of Voltage and Current Booster as an enhancement of the Photosynthetic Bioelectricity. Voltage and Current Booster will complement the Photosynthetic Bioelectricity by increasing the output current and voltage as well as the efficiency and sustainability of the prototype.

The main objective of this research is to design a Photosynthetic Bioelectricity harnessing device. Specifically, it aims to:

1. Determine a specific plant that is common in Batangas City which

can be grown in garden soil and can serve as the main energy source of the Photosynthetic Bioelectricity.

2. Design the Photosynthetic Bioelectricity and determine the effect of the type of material of conductors, as well as the best anode-cathode combination to be used, considering in the behavior of Voltage and Current.

3. Test the effectiveness of the Impressed Current Cathodic Protection in preventing the corrosion of the conductors.

4. Test and evaluate the capability of the Photosynthetic Bioelectricity to generate:

a. Voltage b. Current c. Power

The study of the development and utilization of Photosynthetic Bioelectricity can be a breakthrough in using alternative renewable energy in electricity generation. Being able to shift to renewable sources will be a significant aid for the environment. The Photosynthetic Bioelectricity has no harmful effect in the environment, it even supports plant growth through photosynthesis. This kind of technology in energy production is an exact reciprocal of the conventional fossil fuel power plants since it does not emit toxic chemicals to the environment and plants even help in the reduction of greenhouse gases. The Photosynthetic Bioelectricity produces green energy in an environmental-friendly way, without being competitive with agriculture. This technology is also beneficial to the users because it offers electricity for free. Plants are easy to cultivate, and it does not require utmost maintenance other than watering them, so users acquire electricity without working for and paying for it. The development of this technology is a great achievement for both the students and the institution. This study imparts valuable learnings that will have lasting influence on the students as a preparation for the professional world.

The researchers focused on the improvement of the design and amount of electricity generated of the Photosynthetic Bioelectricity through the insertion of Voltage and Current Booster in the circuit design. In determining the plant to

be used as the main energy source of the Photosynthetic Bioelectricity, the researchers look for something that is common in Batangas City and inexpensive. The researchers define the term “common” as easy to grow, cultivate, and reproduce due to the plants’ suitability with the soil in Batangas City. They also defined it as “inexpensive” in terms of maintenance. The plants that they will choose may not be the cheapest available in the market as long as it is the easiest and cheapest to maintain. The researchers do not consider the biotic and agricultural factors affecting the plant’s growth since this research is intended for Electrical Engineering.

2.0 METHODOLOGY

This chapter contains the research design and conceptual framework which will be used in obtaining the objectives specified in Chapter 1. The researchers preferred to use the action research design since it is focused on the improvement and development of a certain study. This research involves identifying the problem to be studied, gathering data about the problem from the previous studies conducted, analyzing and interpreting the data gathered, developing and implementing a plan to address the problem, evaluating the results of the actions taken, and identifying the possible new problems.This research is divided into four phases, namely: research of existing plant microbial fuel cell designs, design of the prototype, testing of the prototype, and lastly the evaluation of the overall performance of the prototype. The first phase will provide key information in developing an improved microbial fuel cell design. The next phases involve the designing and testing of prototype that will be used to test if the proposed design will demonstrate certain improvements or changes vital to the development of the study. Lastly, the overall performance of the prototype will be evaluated using the data results gathered in the testing phase.

The researchers developed a conceptual framework to give the full details of the step-by-step procedure to be done in conducting this study. These procedures are the key components in fulfilling the objectives of this study.


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Figure 2. Conceptual framework

Figure 3.1. Plants (L-R) Kalamansi, lawiswis kawayan, and chili.

In the research for existing plant microbial fuel cell designs for Phase 1, the researchers went to Batangas State University Library to look for past research works that are related to plant microbial fuel cell. They also reviewed various scholarly articles, specifically from Google Scholar, to identify other improvements that may be applied to the study. They studied the pre-existing designs and compared their notable similarities and differences that can be improved throughout the study.

For the Phase 2 of the research which involves the designing of the prototype of the plant microbial fuel cell, the researchers searched for plants that can be grown in different soil types and are common in Batangas City. The researchers went to the Office of the City Veterinary and Agriculturist Services where they were able to identify different plants that can be used for the fuel cell design through the help of the plant specialist. The chosen plants to be tested for microbial fuel cell design are Lawiswis Kawayan, Kalamansi, and Chili. During the testing, the researchers found out that the best plant that can give off highest voltage and current is the Lawiswis

Kawayan, because it contains a high-water content of leaves that helps the gathering of electrons that are given off as bacteria to oxidize the plant. It contains iron that is involved when a plant produces chlorophyll, which gives the plants oxygen. Simultaneously, the best anode-cathode combination as well as the size and type of materials of conductors was also determined. The best combination that the researchers discovered through series of experimentation are the copper tube as the cathode and magnesium tube as the anode combination, both having a diameter of 1.6 cm and length of 9 cm, respectively.

As part of the design of the prototype, the researchers also tested the effectiveness of cathodic protection in preventing the corrosion of magnesium. In a normal setup, without cathodic protection, magnesium starts to degrade after a night of being embedded into the soil. In a period of three months, the magnesium is completely corroded and was not able to harvest voltage and current from the fuel cell. As a remedy, the proponents injected a DC voltage from a solar cell with a

rating of 1V to the magnesium which they will test in their experiments. In designing the prototype, the connection used was only series parallel. Every plant has a combination of conductors used for anode and cathode, as well as solar cell for cathodic protection. To maximize the current and voltage, a voltage booster was used to compliment the device’s actual output.

In the fourth and final phase of the research, the gathered results from the previous experiments were compared and analyzed. The prototype was also evaluated in terms of its capability to run a load. The loads that were tested included a solar charge controller, phone charging and the basic loads such as 4W bulb.

3.0 RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS

This chapter contains the design of the prototype and the data gathered from all the experiments conducted to attain the objectives of this study. 3.1 Plant and Anode-Cathode Selection

The first objective of this study was to determine a specific plant that will serve as the fuel cell. The proponents researched various possible plants which will serve as the energy source for the prototype. Figure 3.1 shows the plants used for the experiments to identify the best plant to be used as the subject of this research. Among the plants that are common in Batangas City introduced by the agriculturist from OCVAS, the proponents selected Kalamansi, Lawiswis Kawayan, and Chili for their initial experiment.


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Figure 3.2. Conductors (L-R) Copper, magnesium, tin, and lead.

Table 3.1Generated Voltage and Current of Plants in Different Anodes

Figure 3.3. Graph of voltage generated by each plant from different anodes.

Another objective of the study was to determine the best anode-cathode combination to be used in the fuel cell. The researchers studied the conductivity of different metals to determine which anode-cathode combination will give the highest output. Figure 3.2 shows the metals used in this study. The researchers decided to use Copper as the Cathode, since copper, next to silver, has the best electrical conductivity among the metals widely available in the market, and it is also inexpensive compared to other conductors. They tested which metal among magnesium, tin, and lead will produce good results with copper

The researchers recorded the data they gathered from a week-long experiment in Table 3.1. The table shows that the highest voltage and current generated were 1.635V and 4.43mA, both are from the set-up Lawiswis Kawayan with the Copper-Magnesium conductors.

For a clearer visualization, Figure 3.3 shows the graph of voltage generated by each plant using different anodes. Lawiswis Kawayan using Magnesium as the anode and Copper as the cathode has an average output voltage of 1.4V. This combination clearly stood out among the different setups used in the experiment.

Figure 3.4 shows the graph of current generated by each plant using different anodes. Lawiswis Kawayan using Magnesium as the anode and Copper as the cathode has an average output current of nearly 3 mA. After carrying out a week of experiment for the plant and conductors to be used, the researchers found out, based on the results of the experiment, that the best option was to use Lawiswis Kawayan and Magnesium-Copper combination for their prototype. Lawiswis Kawayan has the appropriate attributes such as it is an ornamental plant which is common in the households of Batangas City, it is easy to grow, and it does not require daily watering or expensive maintenance.

3.2 Effect of Impressed Current Cathodic Protection

Based on the past studies that the proponents have researched, one of the major concerns regarding the Plant Microbial Fuel Cell is the output voltage and current’s sustainability, which was also encountered by the researchers while performing their experiments. From 1.6325V and 4.43mA on the first day of data gathering, to 1.396V and 2.39mA on the last day, the decline in the readings are very evident. Even after the documented data gathering, the researchers noticed that the decrease in the output is still consistent. Knowing that the condition of the plant and the soil did not change, the

Figure 3.4. Graph of current generated by

each plant from different anodes.


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proponents decided to check the conductors under the soil. The state of the magnesium after buried for 3 months is shown is Figure 3.5.

The proponents conducted further research to solve the problem they came across, and they ended up working with cathodic protection. Cathodic protection is the injection of DC voltage to the material that needs to be protected. In this case, the DC voltage came from a solar cell with 1V rating connected in each plant through different setups, shown in Figure 3.6, and the material to be protected was the magnesium.

In setup B.1 the negative terminal of the solar cell is connected to the magnesium while the positive is on the other copper which acts as the reference anode. The other copper together with the magnesium is for the harvesting of the voltage and current. This setup is shown in Figure 3.7.

Figure 3.8 shows set up B.2 where the positive and negative terminal of the solar cell are both connected to the magnesium. The copper together with the third terminal of the magnesium is used for harvesting the output.

For the purpose of testing the effectiveness of cathodic protection, setup A is created as the basis of comparison for setups B.1 and B.2. Setup A is the normal setup without solar cell, using magnesium as the anode and copper as cathode. This setup is shown in Figure 3.9.

The researchers recorded the voltage readings gathered from Setup A in Tables 3.2. The gaps seen on the tables are because the researchers were not able to record non-watered readings due to the wetness of the soil. The wetness was mainly caused by the local scattered rains and drizzles.

The current readings from Setup A is recorded in Table 3.3. Values are measured in milli-Amperes and the highest recorded current is 4.61 mA, measured in the afternoon of the first day of the experiment.

The researchers recorded the voltage readings gathered from Setup B.1 in Table 3.4. The highest recorded voltage is 1.576 V obtained after watering the plant at noontime on the first day, while the lowest is 0.763 V recorded before watering the plant on the second day of the experiment

Figure 3.5. Corroded magnesium.

Figure 3.6. Plant setups (Setup A, Setup B.1, and Setup B.2).

Figure 3.7. Setup B.1.

Figure 3.8. Set up B.2.

Figure 3.9. Setup A.


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Current readings obtained from Setup B.1 is recorded in Table 3.5. The highest recorded value is 5.87 mA obtained after watering the plant at noontime on the third day of the experiment.

The researchers recorded the voltages they gathered from Setup B.2 in Table 3.6. This setup has the lowest output voltage among the three setups, ranging from 0.93 V up to 1.433 V.

Table 3.7 shows the current readings from Setup B.2. The lowest current recorded is 0.41 mA obtained before watering the plant at noontime of the first day of the experiment. The highest value is 6.02 mA obtained on the afternoon of the first day.

Based on the data gathered, it was concluded that the most consistent and best readings are recorded at noontime, since it is the time of the day when the plants receive the most amount of sunlight which they need in the process of photosynthesis. Although, the readings at noontime do not have substantial difference from the readings in the morning and afternoon, the researchers decided to use this time of the day to compare the data from different setups.

The researchers used a line graph, as shown in Figure 3.10 and 3.11

Figure 3.10. Graph of voltage vs. time.

Figure 3.11. Graph of current vs. time.

Figure 3.12. Day 1 (October 21, 2019). (L-R) Setup A, setup

B.1, setup B.2.

Figure 3.13. Day 2 (October 22, 2019). (L-R) Setup A, setup

B.1, setup B.2.

to interpret and compare the data recorded from the experiments they conducted. Based on the graph, they concluded that the best setup is Setup B.1. The trend of the current and voltage readings of all the three

setups with respect to time is declining, but the readings from setup B.1 decreased the slowest. Setup B.1 has a reading of 1.576V and 5.22mA on the first day and 1.324V and 2.83mA on the last day. The graph of setup B.1 is almost linear, having minor discrepancy of data. Voltage readings of Setup B.1 are always above 1.3 V all throughout the period of the experiment, while

most of the current obtained are above 3.5 mA.

Aside from the consistency of data gathered from setup B.1, the researchers were also able to observe the condition of the magnesium for ten days. To monitor the state of the magnesium the researchers withdraw the conductor from being buried every other day. The researchers ensure that all the magnesium conductors are in

good condition, smooth, and free from scratch and rust, as shown in Figure 3.12 before burying them.

After a night of being buried, changes are already noticeable. All the magnesium from different setups have black spots, shown in Figure 3.13, which is a sign of rusting. Their texture also became rough.

Figure 3.14 shows the condition of magnesium from different setups on the fourth day of the experiment. The black spots and roughness of the magnesium of Setup A continue to expand. In Setup B.1, the black spots are still there, but its smoothness reverted to normal. In Setup B.2, the black spots turned into rusts.


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Figure 3.14. Day 4 (October 24,

2019). (L-R) Setup A, setup B.1, setup B.2.

Figure 3.17. Block diagram.

Figure 3.15. Day 6 (October 26, 2019). (L-R) Setup A, setup B.1, setup B.2.

As seen in Figure 3.15, the rusting of the magnesium in Setup B.2 increased. The magnesium in Setup A also started rusting while that of Setup B.1 continued to return to its good condition.

3.3 Fabrication of the Prototype After determining the suitable plant, the best anode-cathode combination of the conductors, and the most efficient setup of Impressed Current Cathodic Protection (ICCP) for each fuel cell, the researchers started fabricating the prototype of Photosynthetic Bioelectricity. For the proponents to have an overview of the major components, key processes, and the general operation in the prototype, a block diagram, shown in Figure 3.17, is created. In the first part, the plant (Lawiswis Kawayan) acts as the fuel cell, with a pair of conductor materials acting as anode (Magnesium) and cathode (Copper) embedded on the electrolyte to generate voltage and current. A

solar cell is also part of the fuel cell for cathodic protection to prevent the hasty corrosion of the anode. Upon harvesting the voltage and current, it will be directed to the Voltage Booster to amplify the

output. This output will supply either a load or the solar charge controller. The solar charge controller is used for phone charging, but it

can also be used instead of directly connecting a load to the buck booster. The load used in testing the prototype is a 4-Watt bulb

Presented in Figure 3.19 is the schematic diagram for the whole system. As for the plants, there are five parallel branches each containing 14 plants connected in series. The plants are then connected to a Voltage Booster to amplify the generated voltage. The output can be supplied to various loads either directly or through the solar charge controller.

Figure 3.18 shows the design of an individual fuel cell. There is a magnesium under the roots of the plant, this serve as the anode, pair with a copper which acts as the cathode. They are responsible for harvesting the voltage produced by the cell. To prevent the corrosion in the anode, Cathodic protection through a 1V solar cell is used. The positive terminal of the solar cell is connected directly to the conductor being protected while the negative terminal is connected to another copper, which serves as a reference anode.

Figure 3.18. Design of an

individual fuel cell.

Figure 3.19. Schematic

diagram.

The actual prototype is shown in Figure 3.20. It is located at Kumintang Ilaya, Batangas City, measuring 1 x 2.4 meters.

Figure 3.20. Actual prototype.


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The results obtained proved that the Photosynthetic Bioelectricity can generate sustainable voltage, current, and power. The Voltage Booster will then step-up the output to meet the requirement of the load connected to the prototype. For three consecutive days of testing the prototype, the researchers found out that it was able to continuously supply the 4W bulb for 3 hours without substantial change in the brightness of the light emitted by the bulb. Subsequently, the brightness of the light deteriorates for 1 hour until it is completely exhausted. The Photosynthetic Bioelectricity needs a 6-hour break after 4 hours of uninterrupted use. After the break, it can repeat its operation. The researchers were not able to conduct testing of the phone charging capacity of the Photosynthetic Bioelectricity. They were only able to prove that the output generated by the prototype was enough to allow phone charging through the solar charge controller. Figure 3.21 shows the prototype supplying the solar charge controller for phone charging and a 4-watt bulb through the Voltage Booster.

Table 3.8Materials Used

Table 3.8 summarizes the materials used in the fabrication of the prototype.

3.4 Evaluation

The last objective of this research was to test and evaluate the capability of the Photosynthetic Bioelectricity to generate power. The researchers recorded the values of the generated voltage and current for seven days in Table 3.9.


4.0 CONCLUSIONS AND DIRECTIONS FOR FUTURE USE

This chapter contains the conclusions of this research and the recommendations of the researchers to further improve this study.

Based on the findings of the study, the researchers therefore conclude the following:

1.Lawiswis Kawayan stood out among the plants chosen for testing. Based on the data gathered, it showed the highest output voltage and current. Although chili and kalamansi are common in Batangas City, Lawiswis Kawayan was still the best option, since it does not require daily watering and excessive maintenance. It can also thoroughly adapt to its environment. Despite of being located outdoors, Lawiswis Kawayan was able to survive the extreme weather brought by typhoon Tisoy which lifted Batangas City under public storm warning signal number 2.

2. After comparing the readings from different electrodes, it was found out that the best conductor that can give the highest output is Magnesium. This conclusion leads to another problem. Despite having the highest output, the data gathered displayed a declining trend. This decline in the output happens to be one of the key points in evaluating the prototype.

3. The researchers figured out that the cause of unsustainability of the output is corrosion. To prevent the anode from corroding, Impressed Current Cathodic Protection (ICCP) is applied on them. It is effective in preventing corrosion and applying it with a reference anode to complete the path of the electrons that will flow to the magnesium (Setup B.1) is the best way to utilize his method.

4.The overall design of the prototype was able to generate power. By using 70 plants, the Photosynthetic Bioelectricity was able to supply loads such as a 4W LED Bulb and phone charging through the help of the Voltage Booster. Direction for future use:Based on the conclusions of the study, the following recommendations were made:

1. Although the prototype was functional, it still needs modification and improvement. Changing the conductors and decreasing the number of plants used may be done. The corrosion of the conductors is a major problem. This study already proved the effectiveness of Impressed Current Cathodic Protection (ICCP) in preventing the corrosion of the conductors, the future researchers may look for other conductors which can give an equal or higher output than that of the magnesium and at the same time can withstand corrosion. They can also decrease the number of plants used by increasing the individual outputs of plants or finding a more efficient device which can amplify the prototype’s output.

REFERENCES

Acuna, F., Delos Reyes, R., Fejer, M., & Samson, G. P. (2018). Design and Development of a Plant Microbial Fuel Cell.

Alvaira, H. L., & Anonuevo, M. G. (2018). Design and Development of a Plant Microbial Fuel Cell.

Arandia, E. V., De Castro, G. B., & Mendoza, A. J. (2017). Design and Modification of Plant Microbial Fuel Cell Powered Water Sprinkler.

Azri, Y. M., Sadi, M., & Benhabyles, L. (2018). Bioelectricity Generation from Three Ornamental Plants: Chlorophytum comosum, Chasmanthe floribunda and Papyrus diffusus. International Journal of Green Energy, 4-15.

Azuma, M., & Ojima, Y. (2018). Catalyst Development of Microbial Fuel Cells for Renewable-Energy Production. Retrieved from http://bit.ly/2YjrO7FBritish Standard for Cathodic Protection. (1991). BS7361-1.Calkins, J., Umasankar, Y. H., & Ramajara, R. (2013). High Photo-Electrochemical Activity of Thylakoid-Carbon nanotube Composites for Photosynthetic Energy Conversion. Energy and environmental Science Journal, Issue 6.

Chiranjeevi, P., Kumar, Y., Kumar, K., & Mohan, V. (2019). Microbial Electrochemical Technology.

Lamaka, H. (2018). Performance Boost for Primary Magnesium Cells using Iron Complexing Agents as Electrolyte Additives. Sci Rep 8,7578.

Strik, D. P., Timmers, R. A., Helder, M. S., Hamelers, H. V., & Buisman, C. J. (2011). Microbial Solar Cells: Applying Photosynthetic and Electrochemically Active Organisms. Trends in Biotechnology, 41-49.

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