Journal of Chemical Learning Innovation

Filtration Behavior and Solid–Liquid Separation Mechanisms in an Integrated Electrocoagulation–Filtration–Chelation System for Heavy Metal Removal from Laboratory Wastewater

2026-04-01T15:52:15+07:00

Purpose of the study: This study aims to investigate the filtration behavior and solid–liquid separation mechanisms in an integrated electrocoagulation–filtration–chelation system for treating highly contaminated laboratory wastewater, with emphasis on the role of filtration as the main separation unit controlling overall treatment performance.

Methodology: Electrocoagulation was conducted using aluminum electrodes in a batch reactor, followed by gravity-driven filtration using cellulose filter media and chelation using tamarind extract. Heavy metals were analyzed using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS, Shimadzu AA-7000). COD was measured using standard dichromate method. Filtration behavior was interpreted using classical Darcy’s law.

Main Findings: The integrated system achieved significant removal of heavy metals, with mercury reduced to 0.001 ppm, cadmium to 0.002 ppm, and lead to 0.123 ppm. COD was also substantially decreased. Filtration exhibited cake formation behavior, where floc accumulation increased resistance and reduced flux over time, while improving solid–liquid separation efficiency.

Novelty/Originality of this study: This study introduces a filtration-centered perspective in an integrated electrocoagulation–filtration–chelation system by emphasizing cake filtration mechanisms and resistance-controlled behavior. It advances existing knowledge by linking physicochemical transformation with mechanical separation, demonstrating how phase conversion enhances filterability and overall separation efficiency in wastewater treatment systems.

Spectroscopic Evaluation and Analytical Validation of Lead (Pb) Determination in River Water Using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry

2026-04-01T18:16:23+07:00

Purpose of the study: This study aims to determine the presence or absence of lead (Pb) in the Kelay River water and to quantify its concentration using atomic absorption spectrophotometry as a reliable analytical technique for environmental monitoring.

Methodology: This study used atomic absorption spectrophotometry (Varian Spectr AA) for analysis. Supporting tools included analytical balance (KERN ALJ 220-4 NM), volumetric glassware (Pyrex), and electric heater. Methods involved judgment sampling, acid digestion using HNO3, preparation of Pb(NO3)2 standard solutions, calibration curve construction, and linear regression analysis.

Main Findings: Lead (Pb) was detected in Kelay River water samples. The concentrations in samples D and E were 0.0773 mg/L and 0.0634 mg/L, respectively, exceeding acceptable limits. In contrast, samples A, B, and C showed concentrations below 0.01 mg/L. The calibration curve exhibited strong linearity with a high correlation coefficient.

Novelty/Originality of this study: This study applies an analytical spectroscopy-based approach to determine lead (Pb) levels in a specific river system with consideration of local environmental characteristics. It integrates calibration and detection limit evaluation, contributing to improved analytical reliability and providing new data for environmental assessment in underreported regions.

Guided Discovery Learning for Acid-Base Chemistry: Effects on Student Achievement and Conceptual Mastery

2026-04-01T18:29:07+07:00

Purpose of the study: This study aims to analyze the effect of guided discovery learning on students’ chemistry learning outcomes and conceptual understanding in acid-base topics, addressing challenges in mastering abstract chemical concepts through structured experimental activities.

Methodology: A quasi-experimental design with a non-equivalent control group was employed. The experimental group received guided discovery learning integrated with laboratory activities, while the control group followed conventional instruction. Data were collected through pre-tests, post-tests, and observation sheets, and analyzed using descriptive statistics, independent sample t-tests, N-gain, and effect size (Cohen’s d) with SPSS software.

Main Findings: Results show that the experimental group achieved higher post-test scores (Mean = 82.15, N-gain = 0.67) compared to the control group (Mean = 70.21, N-gain = 0.45), with a statistically significant difference (p = 0.001) and a large effect size (Cohen’s d = 0.82). Guided discovery learning effectively improves students’ conceptual understanding and overall chemistry learning outcomes.

Novelty/Originality of this study: This study integrates guided discovery learning with systematically designed laboratory activities in acid-base instruction, providing a holistic evaluation of learning improvement. The approach connects theoretical concepts with practical experiences, offering a more effective instructional model and contributing new knowledge for enhancing chemistry education practices in secondary schools.

Development and Validation of Multimedia-Based Interactive Learning Media to Enhance Students’ Conceptual Understanding of the Periodic Table in Chemistry Education

2026-04-01T18:43:25+07:00

Purpose of the study: This study aims to develop and validate multimedia-based interactive learning media to enhance students’ conceptual understanding of the periodic table in chemistry education.

Methodology: The research employed a Research and Development (R&D) approach using the ADDIE model, which includes analysis, design, development, implementation, and evaluation stages. The developed media integrates text, images, animations, and interactive features to facilitate meaningful learning experiences.

Main Findings: The results of expert validation indicate that the media is highly valid, with an average score of 87.5% from media experts and 90.0% from subject matter experts. The implementation results show positive student responses, with an average score of 88.25%, indicating high levels of engagement and usability. Furthermore, the effectiveness test reveals a significant improvement in students’ conceptual understanding, as indicated by an increase in post-test scores and a moderate N-gain of 0.58.

Novelty/Originality of this study: Novelty of this study lies in the integration of interactive multimedia features with a systematic validation process, specifically designed to address conceptual challenges in learning the periodic table. This study provides an innovative and empirically validated learning solution that contributes to improving the quality of chemistry education.

Intensification of Microalgae Lipid Extraction Process Scenedesmus Sp. through Integration of Ultrasonic Pretreatment and Freezing in a Soxhlet System

2026-04-02T12:16:21+07:00

Purpose of the study: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of ultrasonic and freezing pretreatment strategies in intensifying the Soxhlet extraction process for lipid recovery from Scenedesmus sp., within the framework of chemical engineering separation processes.

Methodology: An experimental laboratory design was employed using dried microalgae biomass subjected to three treatment conditions: control (no pretreatment), ultrasonic pretreatment (30 kHz, 30 minutes), and freezing pretreatment (−20°C, 24 hours). Lipid extraction was performed using Soxhlet extraction with n-hexane as the solvent. The extracted lipids were quantified gravimetrically, and all experiments were conducted in triplicate to ensure reproducibility.

Main Findings: The results showed that ultrasonic pretreatment significantly enhanced lipid yield (26.78%), followed by freezing pretreatment (23.12%), compared to the control (18.45%). Process intensification efficiency reached 45.14% for ultrasonic treatment and 25.31% for freezing treatment. The findings indicate improved mass transfer and cell disruption, particularly under ultrasonic conditions.

Novelty/Originality of this study: This study introduces a process intensification perspective by integrating ultrasonic and freezing pretreatments into a conventional Soxhlet extraction system, highlighting their potential to optimize traditional extraction processes without requiring advanced or high-cost technologies.

Ethnochemical Investigation of Traditional Maize Fermentation Practices in Rural Andean Communities of Peru

2026-04-02T12:24:46+07:00

traditional maize fermentation practices and their underlying chemical processes in Andean communities of Peru using an ethnochemical approach.

Methodology: This study employed an integrated ethnographic and chemical analysis approach, including semi-structured interviews, participant observation, and laboratory analyses using GC-MS, HPLC, and spectrophotometry to evaluate physicochemical parameters and compound profiles.

Main Findings: Results showed a significant decrease in pH (6.8 to 3.9) and an increase in ethanol content during fermentation (p < 0.05). Ethnographic findings revealed structured local knowledge systems that regulate fermentation processes, which were found to correlate with measurable chemical transformations.

Novelty/Originality of this study: This study provides empirical evidence linking cultural fermentation practices with biochemical processes, demonstrating that traditional knowledge systems function as adaptive regulatory mechanisms within fermentation systems.