Investigating the Efficiency of Snake Plants (Sansevieria trifasciata) in Air Purification to Reduce Pollution

Proponents:  

Acosta, Knox Caime Jay B., Dayrit, Princess Eunice C., Magwaling, Nicholas Steven Y.

Morales, Althea Cherice A., Pondevida, Angela Marie N. and Tacardon, Jethro T.

Abstract

This study investigated the efficiency of Snake Plants (Sansevieria trifasciata) as a cost-effective approach to mitigating air pollution. The researcher’s main objective is to assess the capability of Snake Plants (Sansevieria trifasciata) in filtering air pollutants such as carbon dioxide (CO₂), volatile organic compounds (VOCs), particulate matter (PM), and carbon monoxide (CO). Through the use of a quantitative and qualitative experimental framework, the researchers gathered their data by using a controlled and experimental airtight chamber where a snake plant was exposed to smoke under direct daylight, low light (nighttime), and the application of petroleum jelly on the plant’s leaves for stomatal blockage. Its capability was determined by utilizing a gas sensor that measures depletion levels of CO₂, VOCs, PM, and CO. The data proves that Snake Plants (Sansevieria trifasciata) are effective in reducing air pollutants, especially during the night rather than the day, due to their ability in CAM photosynthesis, which allows Snake Plants (Sansevieria trifasciata) to photosynthesize during the night. However, the pollutants absorbed by the plant coated in petroleum jelly are reduced due to their stomata being blocked, which hinders the gas exchange process of the Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata). This study builds upon prior research, aligning with the findings of Papinchak et al. (2009), who emphasized the need for further investigation into species effectiveness under different environmental conditions such as light, temperature, and humidity. By extending this line of research, our study helps to further develop recommendations for maximizing plant-based air purification techniques.

Keywords:  Air Pollutants, Air Purification, Snake Plant ( Sansevieria trifasciata)