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LYCEUM OF THE PHILIPPINES UNIVERSITY CAVITE

Utilizing Colocasia esculenta (Taro) Starch in Developing Biodegradable Plastic

A Thesis Submitted to the Faculty of the International School

Lyceum of the Philippines University – Cavite

In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements of the

International School, Senior High School Program

Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics

Costa, Olsen M.
Cubcubin, Kate Zinnia P.
Dimailig, Krizia Camil R.
Edjan, Danielle May A.
Erni, Aeron Ace Joshua F.
Garcia, Maria Isidra Cassandra M.
Kim, Yeil
Mojica, Anne Jelene R.
Pucate, Lizbeth Angelika N.
Renzales, James Jardi A.
Reyes, Kimberly P.

STEM 2112
2017-2018

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CHAPTER I

INTRODUCTION

Background of the Study

Global warming has been a major concern for several years and until to this date it

is considered as one of the leading problems worldwide. One of its causes is the production

and irresponsible use of plastics; it is widely used in everyday life of every people because

of its convenience but despite its usefulness, it causes harm to the environment. Petroleum-

based plastics are made from non-biodegradable materials, hence, it takes up at least 1000

years before it decompose and some people has their own way of discarding unused plastic

bags which is burning it and cause danger to the environment.

This growing concern regarding plastic is undeniably alarming since it may cause

further damage to the environment, even the government suggests different resort to stop

this problem such as the ban of plastic bags and eliminate the use of it, the fact is it cannot

be really done because of its versatility, it has become a necessity, an accessory and even

a form of advertisement for some businesses which helps the economy to grow.

Colocasia esculenta or commonly known as Taro or Gabi contain a high starch

content.

Pure Starch is a white, tasteless and odorless powder that is insoluble in cold water

or alcohol. It consists of two types of molecules; the linear and helical amylase and the

branched amyl pectin. Thus, it is the most suitable biodegradable agent.

Biodegradable plastics take less time to decompose and are created from materials
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that are fully biodegradable. It is also good for the environment and causes no harm since

it does not contain harmful chemicals or toxins. This product harmlessly breaks down and

gets absorb into the Earth.

Due to the fast paced society and different innovations growing, the condition of

the environment might be put aside and be worse. People being mindful that there is an

alternative material that can be used instead of petroleum-based plastic is significant since

using biodegradable plastic will lessen the possibility of greater land and water pollution

caused by the production and irresponsible use of non-biodegradable plastic materials.

In 2017, the environmental organization Greenpeace, ranked the country

Philippines as the third who contributes most in the pollution caused by plastic materials.

The local government of Davao City, implemented an ordinance that bans the use of non-

biodegradable plastic bag, the banning of non-biodegradable is to minimize the pollution

in the environment (Basa, 2012).

Over 67 million ton of plastic waste is generated annually in Europe and this

problem has caused many environmental concerns. Using plastics has been part of the

everyday lives of people and even in packaging industry that helps the economy to grow.

It has become an alarming concern that led the government to turn its head to biodegradable

plastic materials with its idea of preventing its further damage (Song. J. H. et al., 2009).

Statement of the problem

This research project attempts to develop a biodegradable plastic utilized from the
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starch of Colocasia most esculenta (Taro). Also, it aims to answer the following problems:

1. Which among the four formulas is the most effective concentration in producing

organic plastic?

2. How effective is the Colocasia esculenta starch in developing biodegradable

plastics in terms of :

a. Heat Resistance

b. Water Resistance

c. Durability

d. Biodegradable Test

e. Strong Acid test

3. Is there any significant difference between the biodegradable plastic and petroleum-

based plastic?

Hypothesis

At the end of the research project, the following hypotheses may be or may not be

proven:

1. Colocasia esculenta starch is an effective source of biodegradable plastic.

2. Colocasia esculenta starch is not an effective source of biodegradable plastic.

SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

The demand for plastic use is disturbingly increasing each year. In accordance to

a research article by Geyer et al. (2017), there are over 8.3 million metric tons (Mt) of

newly-manufactured plastics have been produced to date. As of 2015, about 6300 Mt of


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plastic waste had been produced, 12% were destroyed by burning, 79% were piled up in

landfills or scattered everywhere, and only 9% were recycled. If the production of non-

biodegradable plastics and the problem in plastic waste management persists, there will

be approximately 12,000 Mt of plastic waste in the natural environment by the year 2050.

This research aims to replace or lessen the production and usage of the common

petroleum-based plastics with biodegradable plastics, specifically made from taro starch

which has an additive that helps plastic to decompose naturally.

As the research deals with the Utilizing Colocasia esculenta Starch in Developing

Biodegradable Plastic, the results would be beneficial to the following:

Whole scientific community. This research could offer additional information on

how to make an environment-friendly, inexpensive and toxic-free bio plastic resins from

taro starch.

Local community. This research may help people gain knowledge about the

problem on plastic waste management and the need to reduce the use of non-recyclable

plastics. The information that will be produced during the study may be an eye opener

and persuade them to support the use of bio plastics.

Future researchers. This research could serve as a springboard or a stepping stone

for those who want to develop biodegradable materials.

Definition of Terms

Biodegradable plastic – It is plastic that decomposes naturally in the environment.

This is achieved when microorganisms in the environment metabolize and break down the
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structure of biodegradable plastic. The result is one which is less harmful to the

environment than traditional plastics (Connecticut Plastics, 2016).

Biomass – It is an organic material that comes from plants and animals and a

renewable source of energy (EIA, 2017).

Colocasia esculenta – It is an herb of the Pacific islands grown throughout the

tropics for its edible root and in temperate areas as an ornamental for its large glossy leaves

(“Colocasia esculenta”, 2008)

Durability – Ability to withstand pressure for a long period of time without

deterioration of quality or value. (Merriam-Webster, 2018)

Hydrochloric Acid – Also known as HCl or muriatic acid, it is a strong acid and

considered as highly corrosive. (PubChem, 2016)

Glycerol – It is a colorless, odorless, viscous metabolic intermediate and structural

component of the major classes of biological lipids, triglycerides, and phosphatidyl

phospholipids; used as plasticizer. (Biology Online Dictionary, 2009).

Lemon – Contains the chemical Limonene which can be substituted to BPA which

serves as the cleaner in the production of plastic. (Britannica, 2012)

Pure Starch – It is a white, tasteless, and odorless powder that is insoluble in cold

water or alcohol. (Starch.eu, 2017)

Plastic – It is produced by the conversion of natural products or by the synthesis

from primary chemicals generally coming from oil, natural gas, or coal (American

Chemistry Council, 2011).


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Polyvinyl Acetate Resin Glue – A synthetic resin prepared by the polymerization

of vinyl acetate; it is used as adhesives. (Britannica, 2016)

Starch – It is a naturally abundant nutrient carbohydrate, found tubers, roots, and

stem pith of plants, notably in corn, potatoes, and varying widely in appearance according

to source but commonly prepared as a white amorphous tasteless powder (American

Heritage Dictionary, 2011).

SCOPE AND LIMITATION

The principal objective of this study is to make biodegradable plastic using Taro

starch (Colocasia esculenta) as the main ingredient.

This study aims to identify the characteristics of the Taro starch that can prove that

it is really capable to be transformed into a biodegradable plastic. These characteristics

such as the durability and texture, will be compared to a non-biodegradable plastic (plastic

labo) not to be its alternative but to show the capability of the Taro starch to be an eco-

friendly plastic.

The researchers will make the initial trial of extraction of starch from Taro roots at

Buenavista I, General Trias City, Cavite because of the availability of materials needed. It

is limited to be done from April 19 to May 1, 2018. This research project is also limited to

producing biodegradable plastic; hence, other material that can be produced using

Colocasia esculenta starch will not be processed. Also, the study only limits itself on the

utilization of Taro starch to produce biodegradable plastic as the experimental treatment

and the commercial plastic as the control treatment.


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CHAPTER II

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

This chapter presents and discusses the review of relevant literatures, studies and

concepts essential and helpful to the direction of the study. Data and information were
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obtained from books, unpublished theses, journals and online sources.

1. Colocasia Esculenta (Taro) starch

1.1. Chemical Composition

Colocasia esculenta, commonly known as taro, is a vegetable crop which is

a common basis of the everyday diet (Ubalua et al., 2016). In accordance to a

journal article by Ahmed (2014), taro is consisting of two types of molecules: the

linear and helical amylose and the branched amylopectin. Depending on the plant,

starch generally contains 20 to 25% amylose (starch molecule) and 75 to 80%

amylopectin (water soluble). The tuber is chemically composed of vitamin C,

thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, oxalic acid, calcium oxalate, pelargonidin 3-glucoside,

cyanidin 3-rhamnoside, cyanidin 3-glucoside, hydroxyl cinnamoyl amides,

benzaldehyde 3,4’ di O beta glucopyronoside, beta carotene, colocasia sterols,

fructose, glucose and sucrose. It also has high starch content. Various taro tubers

are consisting of high amount of starch with a percentage ranging from 66% to 87%

on a dry weight basis (Aboubakar et al., 2008).

 calcium oxalate
Organic Acid
 oxalic acid
 cyanidin 3-glucoside
Anthocyanins  pelargonin 3-glucoside
 cynadin 3-rhamnoside

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 vitamin c
 thiamine
Vitamin
 riboflavin
 niacin

Starch content  66% to 87% on a dry weight


basis
Table 1. Chemical Composition of Taro.

1.2. Specie

Colocasia esculenta, also known as taro, is a specie of the genus Colocasia

in the Araceae family. It is native to tropical Asia that originates in Southeastern or

Southern Central Asia. It is widely planted throughout tropical and subtropical

regions and is known to be an “aggressive weed” in countries such as Florida,

Hawaii and Australia while in Cuba, Costa Rica, the Galapagos Islands and in

French Polynesia it is known as the “invasive species”. This specie could adapt

easily that helped it to survive as a weed, it is adapted to cultivate in a great diversity

of substrates and its habitats. Colocasia esculenta (taro) has grown throughout the

Philippines especially in Eastern and Central Visayas, Bicol regions and Mindanao

(Cabi, 2018).

1.3. Potential to produce bioplastics

Starch from the tubers of talas or Taro has a potential to be a raw material

for bioplastics with the use of glycerol as a plasticizer (Hasibuan, 2014). Taro starch

can be used to produce biodegradable or bio-organic plastics because it has an

additive that helps plastics to decompose naturally (Ahmed, 2014). It was also

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mentioned by Alam et al. (2015) that smaller granular starch has been determined

that it can be used as a filler for biodegradable plastic films. An ample amount of

taro starch granules is more effective to use in producing biodegradable plastics

than other starches (Sharma et al., 2012).

2. Conventional Plastic

2.1. Properties

Conventional plastics are made and produced using petroleum, coal or gas—

which are all non-renewal resources vulnerable to the unpredicted market of rising

cost and demand, with reservations (Australian Academy of Science, 2015).

Plastics generally have: corrosion and chemicals resistant, high strength-to-

weight ratio, transparent or wide variety of colors, shock resistant, good durability,

inexpensive, are easy to produce, water resistant and have low toxicity

(eMachineShop, 2017).

2.2. Societal Use

According to Chris Woodfloor (2017), plastic is the most versatile

material because it is on everything nowadays. The only downside of it is that, it

is synthetic. Many plastic products kill wildlife by polluting their houses. Also, it

makes our environment look less attractive. Plastics are made out of carbon-based

polymers. It is flexible and can be used for a lot of products. Plastic disposal is not

an easy task. Recycling plastic properly is difficult and if handled incorrectly, it

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will release dioxins which is toxic for both the environment and the human

beings.

2.3. Common Additives

Additives are complex blend of materials that are added to the polymer

either during the manufacture or during the processing into their finished parts. The

basic mechanical, chemical, and physical properties of a plastic may not be very

effective if there are no additives added to it. On the other hand, if these are present,

the product will be safer, tougher, cleaner, and more appealing. These additives

have different common functions like helping in changing the melt flow of a

polymer; degrading effects of light, heat, or bacteria; and improved appearance and

reduced friction. The following are the common materials added to polymers to

produce conventional plastics.

Common additives Uses

Antioxidants They help prevent thermal oxidation

reactions whenever it is processed or

exposed at high temperature and light-

assisted oxidation when exposed to

Ultraviolet light.

Colorants They are used for colored plastic parts.

They are used for expanded

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Foaming agents polystyrene cups and building board

and for polyurethane carpet

underlayment.

They are used to make plastics softer


Plasticizers
and more fexible.

a) They are used to prevent damage to

the plastics or mold during


Lubricants: a) External Lubricants
processing.
b) Internal Lubricants
b) They are used to improve the

flowability of the material.

They are used to reduce dust collection


Antistatic agents
by static electricity attraction.

They help prevent deterioration of

plastic materials which can cause

staining, discoloration, odor but more


Antimicrobials
importantly, loss of electrical

insulating properties, hygiene and

overall loss of mechanical properties in

the material.

Table 2. Common additives in conventional plastics.

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3. Biodegradable Plastic

Bioplastics are usually made up of starch which are kinder chemicals

compared to plastics which are engineered to last long. This makes bioplastic

easier to get rid of because of them breaking down easier. The best way of

disposing bioplastic is through composting. Due to it being natural, bioplastic can

be composted (Woodfloor, 2017).

As claimed by Dr. Kumar (2017), plastics made from starch-based food

crops or bio-organic plastics will play a vital role in making and producing plastics

and packaging in the future for it can offer a new alternative of recycling. Also,

they release less carbon dioxide over their life cycle and do not need much energy

to be produced than plastics made of petroleum.

However, according to Vidal (2008), various bioplastics are considered to

be an added factor to the global food crisis because it is taking over a wide range

of land that was used to cultivate food crops for human consumption. Moreover, in

Britain, the petro-plastic substitutes can contribute to the release of greenhouse

gases on landfill sites because some require great amount of heat to dissolve and

others are non-recyclable.

Synthesis

Biodegradable plastics are said to be a new option of recycling because they emit

less carbon dioxide in the environment (Kumar, 2017).

Starch from the tubers of talas or taro has a potential to be a raw material for

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bioplastics with the use of glycerol as a plasticizer and can be used to produce

biodegradable or bio-organic plastics for it has an additive that helps plastics to decompose

naturally (Hasibuan, 2014; Ahmed, 2014).

However, according to Vidal (2008), various bioplastics are considered to be an

added factor to the global food crisis because it is taking over a wide range of land that was

used to cultivate food crops for human consumption. Moreover, in Britain, the petro-plastic

substitutes can contribute to the release of greenhouse gases on landfill sites because some

require great amount of heat to dissolve and others are non-recyclable.

CHAPTER III

METHODLOGY
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Usage of non-biodegradable plastic is a persistent occurring problem that concerns

the condition of the environment. Specifically, this research was designed to develop

biodegradable plastic which utilizes the starch from Colocasia esculenta (Taro). This

chapter is divided into several parts addressing the research design, locale, and data

collection procedures and analysis.

Research Design

This study utilizes the mixed method type of research because of its appropriateness

to the study. Mixed method is used for collecting, analyzing, and mixing both qualitative

and quantitative methods in a single study or a series of studies to further understand a

research problem (Creswell & Plano, 2011). The research design used in this study is

explanatory-observational design; this method is a system and scientific approach to

research in which the researcher manipulates one or more variables.

This research design was utilized to have ideal proportion of ingredients in making

the biodegradable plastic to obtain a good quality product. It would help in identifying the

variables’ relationships.

Locale

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The research was conducted in five (5) places. Literature reviews and background

research on various books, journals and other relevant reading materials were conducted at

the Libraries of the Lyceum of the Philippines University (LPU) – Cavite in General Trias

City, and City Library of Dasmariñas. The experiment proper commenced at the residences

of three (3) of the researchers, in Buenavista I, General Trias City, Cavite in Barangay

Buna Lejos, Indang, Cavite and in Hugo Perez, Trece Martires, Cavite. The researchers

chose the said locations due to their accessibility to the materials needed for the experiment

and of the researchers. The conduct of the study is covered from near end of February to

May 2018.

Sources of Data

The data for this study were acquired during and after the experiment was done

which serve as the primary source of data and literature review and background research

conducted in several libraries which serve as the secondary source of data.

Data from the experiment were gathered, organized and analyzed, statistically to

attain results needed for the project. While the secondary data helped the researchers gain

more knowledge about their variables and its components.

Data Gathering Procedure


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The researchers will be performing several manipulations to the variables. To be

able to obtain quantitative and qualitative data, the researchers will conduct different

treatments to the taro starch. All the observations made throughout the manipulation in the

experiment will be recorded in an observation table by the researchers to serve as a primary

data. After all the manipulations are conducted and all the data are recorded, the researchers

will then compare all the data that has been gathered throughout the experiment.

The major materials needed for the extraction of starch are Taro roots, mortar, bowl,

water, paring knife, and strainer. These will be later used for making the biodegradable

plastic with the aid of other ingredients such as lemon, glycerol, and polyvinyl acetate resin

glue.

The Taro roots to be used in the proper experiment shall be gathered from Barangay

4, Magallanes City, Buenavista I, General Trias City and San Aggustin, Trece Martires due

to the convenience of the researchers near to the mentioned places.

The Taro roots will be peeled using a paring knife and was washed through a

running water. Then the peeled taro roots will be grated using a grater and will be placed

into the mortar and water will be added. The Taro-water mixture was pour through the

strainer with a bowl below it, leaving the grated Taro behind the strainer. Then the grinding

and pouring of the mixture was repeated twice more and the mixture will be left overnight

to let the starch settle in the bowl. The starch that had settled in the bottom of the container

will be sun dried. After this process, the taro starch will be split into four for the treatments,

which will have varying amounts to be used in making the biodegradable plastic. An

observation will be made after the treatments and data that will be gathered will be recorded
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to serve as the quantitative data that will be needed.

Measured amounts of the ingredients will be added everything to the pan. The stove

will be turned on to medium heat and the mixture will be stirred until it turns from cloudy

white to clear, until a sticky paste was formed. Then the heat will be turned up a little and

was stirred rapidly until it is completely clear. Then the mixture will be quickly poured

onto the cooling sheet, and will be spread to let it dry.

After the process of making the biodegradable plastic, the product will be put into

several tests that will prove its durability and quality of being biodegradable. All the data

and observation will be recorded and later be used in the fulfilment of the research.

The researchers will consult their professors in the subjects, General Biology II,

Capstone/Research Project, and Inquiries, Investigation and Immersion to validate the

observation table, which is an instrument they constructed to gather data. After the

instrument has been validated, the researchers will start the tests to examine the

effectiveness of the biodegradable plastic sheets they have produced.

Table 1. Observation table

STRONG ACID TEST BEFORE AFTER

● Length

● Width

● Appearance

DURABILITY TEST

● Length

● Width

● Appearance
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HEAT RESISTANCE TEST

● Length

● Width

● Appearance

BIODEGRABLE TEST

● Length

● Width

● Appearance

WATER RESISTANCE

● Length

● Width

● Appearance

Several tests will be conducted to the plastic sheet to determine its mechanical

properties and its effectiveness to be produce a biodegradable plastic.

Table 2. Formulas

Ingredients Formula 1 Formula 2 Formula 3 Formula 4

Starch 1 tbsp. 1 tbsp. 1.5 tbsp. 2.0 tbsp.

Water 60 ml 70 ml 70 ml 70 ml

Lemon 2 tsp. 2 tsp. 2 tsp. 2 tsp.

Glycerol 1 tsp. 1 tsp. 1 tsp. 1 tsp.

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Polyvinyl

Acetate Resin 15 ml 15 ml 20 ml 25 ml

Glue

Each formula will be designed to determine the right combination; four treatments

with different proportion of ingredients were prepared.

Collection of Materials

Extraction of Starch

Making of Biodegradable Plastic

Preparation of Treatments

Experimentation Proper

Observation and Data Gathering

Data Analysis

Figure 1. Flowchart of Data Gathering Procedure

Instrumentation Protocol

The conduct of the research involves the use of observation table, which

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will be used as a guide for the researchers to gather qualitative data to examine and

determine the effectiveness of the biodegradable plastic. The table will consist of the before

and after changes in length, width and appearance of both the experimental and control

groups.

Materials

The materials needed for the extraction of starch are Taro roots, paring knife, bowl,

mortar and pestle, measuring cups and spoons, grater, water and strainer. In cooking the

plastic, the dependent variables will be the glycerol and lemon while the dependent

variables will be the starch and water. The major materials to be used in the conduct of the

tests are pan, water, spring balance, soil and hydrochloric acid.

Procedures

Preparing of Taro:

1. Collected Taro root will be peeled using a paring knife.

2. Peeled Taro roots will be grated and placed in a bowl filled with water.

3. The bowl will be left overnight.

4. After settling overnight. The starch-less water will pour out from the bowl.

5. The starch that settled at the base of the bowl will dry in the in the sunlight for 5

hours.

6. After 5 hours the dried starch will be powdered using mortar and pestle.

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Making of Plastic Sheets:

1. Taro starch will be put into a container.

2. Glycerin and lemon juice will be added to the mixture

3. Water will be added to the mixture.

4. Mixture will be heated and at the same time be stirred.

5. The cooked mixture will be put into a cooling sheet.

6. The cooked mixture will dry for about 48 hours.

Testing the Plastic Sheets:

The following tests were conducted to determine the physical characteristics of the

samples. Each test will also determine the effectiveness of the biodegradable plastic sheets.

1. Heat Resistance

The plastic sheets with different treatments will be placed in a non-stick pan

with medium heat for 10 minutes. The changes in length, width and appearance will

be recorded. The purpose of this is to determine if the treatments can withstand

heat.

2. Water Resistance

The plastic sheets with different treatments will be placed in a container

with water enough for them to be immersed. After 5 days, changes in length, width

and appearance will be recorded. The purpose of this is to determine which

treatment can easily be dissolved in water to prove the biodegradability of the

plastic.

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3. Durability Test

The plastic sheets will be hooked to a spring balance and will be pulled until

they tore apart. The readings (in kg) when the plastic sheets broke will be recorded.

The purpose of this is to determine the treatments’ resilience and durability.

4. Biodegradable Test

The plastic sheets will be stapled to a piece of cardboard and will be buried

in a can of soil. After 5 days, the strips will be dug out and the changes in length,

width and appearance will be recorded. The purpose of this is to determine if the

treatments can be decomposed in the soil.

5. Strong Acid Test

The plastic sheets will be submerged in hydrochloric acid for 30 minutes.

Changes in length, width and appearance will be recorded. The purpose of this is

to determine if the treatments can be dispersed in a strong acid.

Data Analysis

The researchers will be using observational table to gather data and analyze the

results.
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EXPERIMENTAL TREATMENT 1
STRONG ACID TEST BEFORE AFTER

● Length 2 inches Cannot be measured

● Width 0.5 inches Cannot be measured

● Appearance Light brown, Rubbery Pale white, Softened

DURABILITY TEST

● Length 2 inches Torn apart

● Width 0.5 inches Torn apart

● Appearance Light brown, Rubbery Light brown, Rubbery

HEAT RESISTANCE TEST

● Length 2 inches 1 inch

● Width 0.5 inches 0.5 inches

● Appearance Light brown, Rubbery Black, Became brittle

BIODEGRABLE TEST

● Length 2 inches 1.5 inches

● Width 0.5 inches 0.5 inches

● Appearance Light brown, Rubbery Translucent, Became brittle

WATER RESISTANCE

● Length 2 inches 1.8 inches

● Width 0.5 inches 1 inch

● Appearance Light brown, Rubbery Pale white, Softened

EXPERIMENTAL TREATMENT 2
STRONG ACID TEST BEFORE AFTER

● Length 2 inches Cannot be measured

● Width 0.5 inches Cannot be measured

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● Appearance Light brown, Rubbery Pale white, Softened

DURABILITY TEST

● Length 2 inches Torn apart

● Width 0.5 inches Torn apart

● Appearance Light brown, Rubbery Light brown, Rubbery

HEAT RESISTANCE TEST

● Length 2 inches 1.8 inches

● Width 0.5 inches 1 inch

● Appearance Light brown, Rubbery Black, Became brittle

BIODEGRABLE TEST

● Length 2 inches 1.5 inches

● Width 0.5 inches 0.5 inch

● Appearance Light brown, Rubbery Translucent, Became brittle

WATER RESISTANCE

● Length 2 inches 1.8 inches

● Width 0.5 inches 1 inch

● Appearance Light brown, Rubbery Pale white, Softened

EXPERIMENTAL TREATMENT 3
STRONG ACID TEST BEFORE AFTER

● Length 2 inches 2 inches

● Width 0.5 inches 0.5 inches

● Appearance Light brown, Rubbery Pale white, Softened

DURABILITY TEST

● Length 2 inches Torn apart

● Width 0.5 inches Torn apart

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● Appearance Light brown, Rubbery Light brown, Rubbery

HEAT RESISTANCE TEST

● Length 2 inches 1.5 inches

● Width 0.5 inches 0.7 inches

● Appearance Light brown, Rubbery Black, Became brittle

BIODEGRABLE TEST

● Length 2 inches 1.5 inches

● Width 0.5 inches 0.5 inches

● Appearance Light brown, Rubbery Translucent, Became brittle

WATER RESISTANCE

● Length 2 inches Cannot be measured

● Width 0.5 inches Cannot be measured

● Appearance Light brown, Rubbery Pale white, Partially dissolved

EXPERIMENTAL TREATMENT 4
STRONG ACID TEST BEFORE AFTER

● Length 2 inches 2 inches

● Width 0.5 inches 0.5 inches

● Appearance Light brown, Rubbery Pale white, Softened

DURABILITY TEST

● Length 2 inches Torn apart

● Width 0.5 inches Torn apart

● Appearance Light brown, Rubbery Light brown, Rubbery

HEAT RESISTANCE TEST

● Length 2 inches 1.4 inches

● Width 0.5 inches 0.8 inches

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● Appearance Light brown, Rubbery Black, Became brittle

BIODEGRABLE TEST

● Length 2 inches 1.5 inches

● Width 0.5 inches 0.5 inches

● Appearance Light brown, Rubbery Pale white, Became brittle

WATER RESISTANCE

● Length 2 inches 1.7 inches

● Width 0.5 inches 0.8 inches

● Appearance Light brown, Rubbery Pale, Softened

CONTROL TREATMENT
STRONG ACID TEST BEFORE AFTER

● Length 2 inches 2 inches

● Width 0.5 inches 0.5 inches

● Appearance Clear, Slightly elastic Clear, Slightly hardened

DURABILITY TEST

● Length 2 inches Torn apart

● Width 0.5 inches Torn apart

● Appearance Clear, Slightly elastic Clear, Slightly elastic

HEAT RESISTANCE TEST

● Length 2 inches 1 inch

● Width 0.5 inches 0.2 inches

● Appearance Clear, Slightly elastic Clear, Hardened

BIODEGRABLE TEST

● Length 2 inches 2 inches

● Width 0.5 inches 0.5 inches

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● Appearance Clear, Slightly elastic Clear, Slightly elastic

WATER RESISTANCE

● Length 2 inches 2 inches

● Width 0.5 inches 0.5 inches

● Appearance Clear, Slightly elastic Clear, Slightly elastic

The tables show that among the five treatments, the most favorable in terms of

results is the experimental treatment 3. These support the hypothesis, Colocasia esculenta

starch is an effective source of biodegradable plastic.

CHAPTER IV

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

This chapter presents the findings inferred from the gathered data. It also includes
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the analysis, interpretation and discussion of these findings.

The objectives of the study are to: 1) determine which among the four formulas is

the most effective concentration in producing organic plastic and 2) determine the

effectiveness of using Taro starch in developing biodegradable plastics in terms of: a) Heat

Resistance, b) Water Resistance, c) Durability Test, d) Biodegradable Test, and e) Strong

Acid Test.

Table 1. Results in Heat Resistance Test

Treatment Color Time until Elaboration

completely burnt

Experimental 1 Black 5 mins Shrunk a little and some parts

broke apart

Shrunk a little but the parts did


Experimental 2 Black 8 mins
not break down into pieces

Shrunk a little and the edges


Experimental 3 Black 8 mins
were slightly deformed

Shrunk a little but the parts did


Experimental 4 Black 9 mins
not broke down into pieces

Control Variable No changes 25 secs Compressed, Hardened

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Table 1 shows that after heating the treatments for 10 minutes, the experimental

treatment 4 has the positive results of being able to withstand heat for 9 minutes because

its parts did not broke down into pieces compared to the control variable which was

compressed and hardened after 25 seconds.

Table 2. Results in the Water Resistance Test

Treatment Color Nature Elaboration

Some particles broke down, but


Experimental 1 Pale White Softened
the other parts remained intact

Some particles broke down, but


Experimental 2 Pale White Softened
the other parts remained intact

Experimental 3 Pale White Softened Partially dissolved

Some particles broke down, but


Experimental 4 Pale White Softened
the other parts remained intact

Control Variable No changes No changes No changes

Table 2 shows that after immersing the treatments in water for 5 days, the

control treatment resulted to being able to resist water compared to experimental

treatment 3 which resulted to being partially dissolved. But this test shows that

experimental treatment 3 can easily be discarded.

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Table 3. Results in the Durability Test

Treatment Readings until torn apart (in kg)

1.5 kg
Experimental 1

0.5 kg
Experimental 2

Experimental 3 1 kg

0.3 kg
Experimental 4

Control Variable 0.6 kg

Table 3 shows that after hooking the treatments on a spring balance, the

experimental treatment 1 is the best treatment having the durability and resilience with the

measurement of 1.5 kg, followed by experimental treatment 3 with the measurement of 1

kg and the experimental treatment 2 being the least durable and resilient among the

treatments.

Table 4. Results in the Biodegradable Test

Treatment Color Nature Elaboration

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Some particles broke down but


Experimental 1 Pale white Became brittle
the other parts remained intact

Some particles broke down but


Experimental 2 Pale white Became brittle
the other parts remained intact

Experimental 3 Pale white Became brittle Molds are visibly seen

Some particles broke down but


Experimental 4 Pale white Became brittle
the other parts remained intact

Control Variable No changes No changes No changes

Table 4 shows that after burying the treatments in the soil for 5 days, the

experimental treatment 3 has the positive results of being able to decompose compared to

the control variable that showed no changes.

Table 5. Results in the Strong Acid Test

Treatment Color Nature Elaboration

Pale white Softened Did not dissolve


Experimental 1

Experimental 2 Pale white Softened Completely dissolved

Experimental 3 Pale white Softened Partially dissolved

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Pale white Softened Did not dissolve


Experimental 4

Control Variable No changes No changes Slightly hardened

Table 5 shows that after submerging the treatments in hydrochloric acid for 30

minutes, the experimental treatment 2 has the positive results of becoming completely

dissolved, compared to the control variable that showed no changes except becoming

slightly hardened.

CHAPTER 5

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SUMMARY OF FINDINGS, CONCLUSION, AND RECOMMENDATION

This chapter presents the summary of the findings, the conclusions derived from

those findings, and the succeeding recommendations of the study.

This study has the primary objective to utilize the starch extracted from the Taro

root in developing biodegradable plastic.

Specifically, this sought to answer the following questions:

1. Which among the four formulas is the most effective concentration in producing

organic plastic?

2. How effective is the Colocasia esculenta starch in developing biodegradable

plastics in terms of:

a. Heat Resistance

b. Water Resistance

c. Durability

d. Biodegradable Test

e. Strong Acid test

3. Is there any significant difference between the biodegradable plastic and petroleum-

based plastic?

SUMMARY OF FINDINGS

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Presented below are the summary of the results that are gathered in the conduct of

the study.

1. The physical characteristics of the tested samples are purely based on the physical

senses of the researchers. The color of the samples was observed after the tests,

excluding the durability test, it was then identified to whiten/lighten as compared

to its initial color.

2. The odor of the samples tested after the Biodegradable test, Heat Resistance test,

and Strong Acid test is identified as odorless, moreover, the odor of the samples

after the Water Resistance test is identified as rancid but not much as before, lastly,

the odor of the samples were not affected in the Durability test.

3. The samples were submerged in water for 5 days (Water Resistance test) to observe

its capability of being dissolved in water. Sample 3’s water became blurry because

some of its portion were already dissolved in the water, moreover, the Sample 1, 2,

and 4’s water were also blurry but the portions of the samples were still intact; all

samples softened upon the test. The control variable which is the commercial plastic

did not show significant changes.

4. For the Strong Acid test, the samples were immersed in Hydrochloric Acid for 30

minutes. The control variable for the experiment which is the commercial plastic

(plastic labo) was also immersed and observed. After the given time, Sample 2 was

completely dissolved, furthermore, Sample 3 was partially dissolved, and lastly,

Sample 1 and 4 were not dissolved partially or completely but were softened by the

strong acid. The commercial plastic did not show any significant changes.
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5. The researchers used the instrument Spring Balance to test the developed

biodegradable plastic in terms of its resilience and durability. Commercial plastic

was also included in the test as the control variable. Sample 3 resulted to 1 kg while

the commercial plastic resulted to 0.6 kg.

6. The samples were heated in a medium high heat for 10 minutes. All the samples in

terms of color turned as black as burnt; moreover, all the samples became brittle.

The researchers then tried pounding one of the samples using mortar and pestle,

after being powdered; the researchers tried dissolving the powdered sample in the

water: it partially dissolved. Commercial plastic was also placed in heat with the

same duration but around 25 seconds of the given time, the plastic shrunk and

hardened.

7. To prove its biodegradability, the samples were buried in the soil for 5 days. All of

the samples discolored and softened; all of the samples showed signs of

decomposition and the thickness also decreases. Sample 3 showed the greatest

change in the physical characteristics since its thickness greatly decreased after the

test and also, molds are already visible in most parts of the sample which is a sign

of decomposition.

8. The measured amount of each ingredients used in the processing is one of the basic

and essential parameter to consider in producing a biodegradable plastic.

CONCLUSION

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Based on the gathered data and results of this study, such conclusions were drawn:

1. Three of the tests performed (Water Resistance test, Strong Acid test, and

Biodegradable test) lightened the color of the samples; moreover, the samples were

softened after the tests.

2. The odor, after some of the tests: Strong Acid test, Heat Resistance test, Water

Resistance test, and Biodegradable test turned out that can be lessen or removed.

3. Based on the tests that were conducted in the treatments, the formula used in

producing the experimental treatment 3 was the most effective formula in

developing biodegradable plastic using the Colocasia esculenta (Taro) starch since

experimental treatment 3 was the most favorable among all the samples in most of

the tests that were conducted.

4. According to the observations of the researchers, it can be concluded that it is

biodegradable since it completely/partially dissolves in water and

completely/partially decomposes in the soil. Based on the tests, it does not require

great span of time in decomposing unlike the petroleum-based plastic or

commercial plastic; hence, it resulted to what as the researchers expected that it

will be: consumes lesser time in decomposing and can decompose in a way that is

not harmful to the environment.

5. After the treatments done in the samples, the researchers then observed and

thoroughly analyzed the results; they came up with the conclusion based on the

tests results that the commercial plastic and biodegradable plastic has significant

difference.
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6. There is an efficacy in utilizing the Taro starch in developing biodegradable

plastic, however, there are still factors needed to be modified to produce a better

quality biodegradable plastic.

RECOMMENDATIONS

From the conclusions that were drawn and analysis that were done, the researchers

recommend the following:

1. The local government should do more research about the benefits of using

biodegradable plastics, hence, doing more research about the production of

biodegradable plastic for commercial use is important in a way that it will be beneficial

for the people and environment.

2. Every individual should learn how to properly and responsibly use plastic especially if

it is a commercial plastic or commonly known as petroleum-based plastic in order to

help the environment as well and prevent further dilemma. In addition, people should

learn the existence of biodegradable plastic and should not stop in looking for other

resorts in producing commercial plastics.

3. The future researchers are encouraged to conduct this study in deeper approach by

testing other possible parts of the Taro that may contain starch in producing the

biodegradable plastic.

3.1. In addition, the researchers could possibly test other binder that will enhance the

quality in terms of its durability.

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3.2. Moreover, the researchers can look for other plasticizers that will improve the

quality of the product.

3.3. Lastly, they can look for other additives that can lessen or remove the rancid smell

of the produced plastic due to the PVA resin glue, lemon, and starch.

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