CHAPTER I

THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND

This chapter presents the problem and its background together with the

defined objectives, its scope and limitations, rationale of the study, the

significance of the study, and the definition of terms. Furthermore, this study

seeks to utilize Rice (Oryza sativa) Husks, Taro (Colocasia esculenta) Stem,

Tipolo (Artocarpus blancoi) Resin, and Ochro (Abelmoschus esculentus) Extract

in Creating an All-Natural Fiber Sheet.

Introduction

Plastics are the most used material in almost every aspect because they

are strong, lightweight, convenient, usable, and simple to use. It's no surprise

that people continue to use it for their daily needs, particularly as bags. Plastics

are everywhere, and as much as they help, they are slowly polluting and harming

our environment. Fortunately, actions are being done by the government to ban

and prevent the use of plastics, specifically plastic bags.

With plastics being one of the leading causes of pollution, various

measures have been implemented to mitigate the effects of plastic waste. Due to

humans' improper use and disposal of plastics, this issue has had the greatest

impact on marine life. Alternatives such as paper bags, shopping bags, eco-

bags, and tote bags are being pushed to be used in replace of plastic bags due

to their qualities of being reusable, recyclable, and eco-friendly.

 The problems lie on the materials on which these products are made of.

Organic polymers, which are long chains of molecules containing carbon,

hydrogen, oxygen, and other elements, are used to make plastics.

Petrochemicals derived from crude oil or natural gas are the most commonly

used plastics.

Monomers are small molecules that can be chemically bonded together to

form long chains called polymers, which are the basic building blocks of plastics.

Ethylene, propylene, styrene, and vinyl chloride are some of the most common

monomers used in plastic production.

To aid in reducing the use of plastics, the researchers opted for an all-

natural fiber sheet as an alternative for the materials used in making plastics. The

researchers opted for the all-natural fiber sheet to be made from natural

components and waste products for its purpose to fully utilize the usage of

biodegradable materials. 

Objectives of the Study

The researchers’ study, “Utilizing Rice (Oryza sativa) Husks, Taro

(Colocasia esculenta) Stem, Tipolo (Artocarpus blancoi) Resin, and Ochro

(Abelmoschus esculentus) Extract in Creating an All-Natural Fiber Sheet”

focuses its attention on the creation of fiber sheets that can reduce the use of

plastics and to utilize the use of biodegradable wastes namely Rice (Oryza

sativa) Husks, Taro (Colocasia esculenta) Stem, and combining them with two

natural adhesive, a resin harvested from a Tipolo tree (Artocarpus blancoi) and

by extracting the mucilage of Ochro (Abelmoschus esculentus) to create a fully

all-natural fiber sheet.

To specify, it seeks to determine the following:

1. To determine the chemical properties of the Rice (Oryza sativa)

Husks, Taro (Colocasia esculenta) Stem, Tipolo (Artocarpus

blancoi) Resin, and Ochro (Abelmoschus esculentus) Extract

needed to create an all-natural fiber sheet. 

2. To produce 3 sets of fiber sheets from Rice (Oryza sativa) Husks,

Taro (Colocasia esculenta) Stem, Tipolo (Artocarpus blancoi)

Resin, and Ochro (Abelmoschus esculentus) Extract with the

following proportions.

Fiber Sheet Rice Husk Taro Stem Tipolo Resin Ochro

No. (500 g (g) (g) (g) Extract (g)
per sheet)
1 35% (175 g) 35% (175 g) 15% (75 g) 15% (75 g)

2 30% (150 g) 30% (150 g) 25% (125 g) 15% (75 g)

3 30% (150 g) 40% (200 g) 10% (50 g) 20% (100 g)

 3. To determine the level of effectiveness of the combination of Rice

(Oryza sativa) Husks, Taro (Colocasia esculenta) Stem, Tipolo

(Artocarpus blancoi) Resin, and Ochro (Abelmoschus esculentus)

Extract using capacity load test in terms of durability and immersion

test in terms of solidity.

4. To conduct a cost-benefit analysis.

Scope and Limitations of the Study

The study's main goal is to create an all-natural fiber sheet out of Rice (Oryza

sativa) Husks, Taro (Colocasia esculenta) Stem, Tipolo (Artocarpus blancoi)

Resin, and Ochro (Abelmoschus esculentus) Extract. Taro (Colocasia esculenta)

Stem, which was required for the production of this product, was available in the

researchers' garden. Because the researchers discovered an available Rice

(Oryza sativa) Husks in an online store, they decided to purchase it there

because it was inexpensive. The Tipolo tree (Artocarpus blancoi) resin required

can be found in the friend's backyard or nearby. The researchers obtained the

Ochro (Abelmoschus esculentus) for extraction from a nearby local market. To

ensure that the prototype product will function, it is necessary to observe the

viability of the material. The research team conducted ongoing experiments to

gather the data used in the study. The purpose of this study is to demonstrate

that it is possible to create an all-natural fiber sheet using Rice (Oryza sativa)

Husks, Taro (Colocasia esculenta) Stem, Tipolo (Artocarpus blancoi) Resin, and
Ochro (Abelmoschus esculentus) Extract. It is also critical to understand the

effectiveness of the all-natural fiber sheet that was created.

Moreover, the study is limited to natural materials and biodegradable waste

since the goal of the study is to make an all-natural fiber sheet that can be used

to reduce the use of plastics. The production of this product will be held at the

researchers' household at Dumantay, Batangas City, Batangas. Furthermore, the

researcher will limit the costs of making this all-natural fiber sheet as low as

possible.

Rationale of the Study

Plastic has caused a wide range of environmental issues as a result of its

uncontrolled use; it has effectively seized the world. Whatever plastics we use

are designed to be discarded after a single use. As a result, plastic packaging

accounts for nearly half of all plastic trash on the planet. In a world facing a

plastic catastrophe, the status quo is not an option. These are the byproducts of

a disposable culture, in which plastic is viewed as a disposable substance to be

discarded rather than a useful resource to be used.

Rice (Oryza sativa) Husks and Taro (Colocasia esculenta) Stem are

organic biodegradable materials that are easily obtained in the Philippines and

can be used to make an all-natural fiber sheet. With the natural property of Rice

(Oryza sativa) Husks being durable and rigid made it a good material for making

the fiber sheets. While the Taro (Colocasia esculenta) Stem contains high fibers

which makes it suitable for this kind of product. However, the combination of
these two components will not be possible without adhesive. Thus, Tipolo

(Artocarpus blancoi) Resin and Ochro (Abelmoschus esculentus) Extract will be

used to make a natural adhesive due to their sticky properties.

       Furthermore, this study had piqued the researchers’ interest in not only

developing a sustainable and viable fiber sheet, but also one that is fashionable

and appealing to the current generation.

Significance of the Study

This research will be done to investigate the viability of utilizing Rice

(Oryza sativa) Husks, Taro (Colocasia esculenta) Stem, Tipolo (Artocarpus

blancoi) Resin, and Ochro (Abelmoschus Esculentus) Extract in Creating an All-

Natural Fiber Sheet.

This research will benefit the community as it can be used as a material

for reusable bags, as well as the environment because it will reduce the use of

plastics especially plastic bags while also reducing the biodegradable waste that

every rice farm produces. Recycling enables the production of new items while

disposing of waste, resulting in its remaining in the landfill forever. Because we

live on a planet with limited resources, it's crucial that we lessen the need for

virgin materials by creating new products from recycled materials. We conserve

energy by lowering the need for virgin materials, which also eliminates the need
to collect and refine those resources from the environment. Aside from all the

environmental benefits, the consumers will also benefit from this creation in Rice

(Oryza sativa) Husks, Taro (Colocasia esculenta) Stem, and Ochro

(Abelmoschus Esculentus) Extract could be used as the main component of

making an all-natural fiber sheet. The researchers also searched online for a

natural alternative glue and discovered that the resin of the Tipolo Tree

(Artocarpus blancoi) has a white milky sap that they can use. Furthermore, due

to its sticky properties, Ochro (Abelmoschus esculentus) Extract will be used to

make a natural adhesive. The all-natural fiber sheet will make sustainability more

accessible to the consumer in all aspects by providing them fiber sheets that can

be used to make a custom-made and eco-friendly product. Apart from

sustainability, this product can be used in many ways, like carrying, storing,

containing, transporting, packaging, and fashion, among other things. It is

lightweight and durable enough for multiple uses.

Other researchers may use the findings of this study to determine the

viability of using Rice (Oryza sativa) Husks, Taro (Colocasia esculenta) Stem,

Tipolo (Artocarpus blancoi) Resin, and Ochro (Abelmoschus Esculentus) Extract

to create an all-natural fiber sheet.

Definition of Terms

To be able to understand the presented study, the following terms are

herewith defined both conceptually and operationally to have and give a better

understanding of the project study.

 Rice (Oryza sativa) Husks. As indicated by International Rice Research

Institute (IRRI), the rice husk, also called rice hull, is the coating on a seed or

grain of rice. It is formed from hard materials, including silica and lignin, to protect

the seed during the growing season. In this study, the Rice (Oryza sativa) Husks

will be used as one of the two main components of the product.

Taro (Colocasia esculenta) Stem. As indicated by Specialty Produce,

taro stems are the young leaf stalks, or petioles, of the Taro plant. The plant is

best known for its starchy tuber, but it also has edible shoots, stems, and leaves.

Although when the stems of C. esculenta have reached maturity, they can be

eaten. Young, unrolled leaves and stems are often harvested together and

cooked together in vegetable dishes or soups. Taro stems are high in fibers. In

this study, the Taro (Colocasia esculenta) Stem will be used as one of the two

main components of the product.

Tipolo Tree (Artocarpus blancoi). The Antipolo or Tipolo (Artocarpus

blancoi) is endemic to the Philippines that grows in low and medium elevations. It

can grow up to the height of 30m with a trunk diameter of 60 cm where its

branches start at the 10 cm height of the tree (Berto, 2022). In the study, the sap

of the tipolo tree will be used as a natural substitute for glue.

Ochro (Abelmoschus esculentus). As indicated in Merriam-Webster,

ochro or okra also known as ladies’ fingers is a tall herb related to the hollyhocks

and grown for its edible green pods which are used especially in soups and
stews. In this study, the extract of ochro which is the mucilage will be used as a

natural substitute for glue.

Resin. As indicated in Merriam-Webster, resin is any of various yellowish

or brownish substances (as rosin) that are obtained from the gum or sap of some

trees (as the pine) and are used in varnishes and plastics and in medicine. In this

study, this resin will be used as a natural adhesive.

Solidity. As indicated in Oxford Languages, solidity is the quality or state

of being firm or strong in structure. In this study, the same definition was used.

Mucilage. As indicated in Merriam-Webster, mucilage is a gelatinous

substance of various plants that contains protein and polysaccharides and is like

plant gums: a water solution of a gum or similar substance used especially as an

adhesive. In this study, the mucilage will be used as the second natural

adhesive.

Biodegradable Waste. Biodegradable waste is a type of waste, typically

originating from plant or animal sources, which may be degraded by other living

organisms. They waste materials which are and can be degraded by natural

factors like microbes (e.g. bacteria, fungi and a few more), and abiotic elements

like temperature, UV, oxygen, etc. (BYJU, 2022). In this study, the two main

components for the creation of the eco bag are examples of organic waste.

Immersion Test. The immersion test evaluates how well your product or

component will last when immersed in water or other liquids. Immersion testing is
an investment in a more robust and durable design. By taking the time to test

these factors early in the development process, you can create a much better

product and shorten your time to market (Batirma, 2022). In this study, the same

definition was used. 

Durability. As indicated in Merriam-Webster, durability is able to exist for

a long time without significant deterioration in quality or value. In this study, the

same definition was used.

Plastic. Plastic is polymeric material that has the capability of being

molded or shaped, usually by the application of heat and pressure (Rodriguez,

2022). In this study, plastics are the main problem that the researchers are trying

to resolve.

CHAPTER 2
 REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

This chapter represents the review of related Conceptual Literature,

Research Literature, Synthesis of the study, and Conceptual Framework that

provides the background for the study conducted. These serve as support for a

better understanding of the research work and for the enhancement of one’s

knowledge of what this study is all about.

CONCEPTUAL LITERATURE

The concepts and theories which contributed to the researcher’s adequate

background in the development of this study is presented here.

An Overview about Plastic Pollution. A plastic is often described as a

wide range of synthetic or semi-synthetic materials that uses polymers as its

main component. Plasticity is what made them possible to be extruded, molded,

or pressed into solid objects with a variety of shapes and uses, with its

adaptability and a wide range of properties which makes it inexpensive and easy

to produce, the usage of plastics became ubiquitous and due to their slow

decomposition rate, plastics has caused a widespread of different environmental

problems.

Plastics cause severe pollution to the environment if not controlled. Plastic

pollution has become one of the most pressing environmental issues, as the

production of disposable plastics is rapidly increasing, this has overwhelmed the

world’s ability to deal with them. Due to their frequently ineffective or nonexistent

garbage collection systems, developing Asian and African countries are most
affected by plastic pollution. However, the developed world also has difficulties

properly collecting used plastics, particularly in nations with low recycling rates.

Plastic trash has proliferated so much as a result of UN negotiations that efforts

to draft a global treaty have been made (Parker, 2019). Every year, about 400

million tons of plastic waste are produced worldwide (World Economic Forum,

2022). Additionally, 1 million seabirds perish each year as a result of plastic

pollution. According to studies, 60% of all seabirds have occasionally eaten

plastic. In actuality, plastic has been discovered in or on the bodies of 44% of the

known seabird species. Studies on young sea turtles have shown that nearly all

of them have consumed plastic at some point in their lives. All of the baby sea

turtles discovered dead in recent years had plastic of some kind in their

stomachs. (Stanton, 2022).

Taro Stem and Its Properties . The Taro stem is the edible stem of the

taro plant. It is a popular vegetable in many cultures and is known for its sweet

and nutty flavor. The stem is widely used in Chinese, Indian, and Southeast

Asian cuisines. It is usually boiled or steamed and then used in stir-fries, soups,

stews, and curries. 

Taro stem is rich in dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It is an excellent

source of potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure, and contains

significant amounts of calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. It is also a good

source of folate, which is important for cell health and the production of DNA.

Taro stem is low in calories but high in nutrients, making it a healthy addition to

any meal.
 The lightweight and durable nature of the taro stem makes it the perfect

material in making an all-natural fiber sheet that can be used for an eco-bag. In

addition, the natural material is biodegradable and can be recycled, making it an

ideal choice for those looking for an eco-friendly alternative to plastics. Using this

material is both stylish and practical, making it a great choice for anyone looking

to make a product of their own. 

The taro stem material is durable and can stand up to wear and tear,

making it ideal for everyday use. It has a unique texture that is both aesthetically

pleasing and comfortable to carry. Its material also makes it easy to carry around

without feeling weighed down. Additionally, its breathable nature helps keep

items stored inside the bag made of this all-natural fiber sheet cool and dry. It is

not only stylish and practical but also environmentally friendly. The natural

material can be recycled and is biodegradable, making it a great choice for those

looking to reduce their environmental impact. Moreover, the created taro stem

fiber sheet is water resistant and can be easily wiped down, making it a great

choice for use in outdoor activities and at the beach. 

In addition, using a taro stem to create an all-natural fiber sheet is a great

choice for those looking to make a product while also being environmentally

friendly. The lightweight and durable materials are both stylish and practical,

making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to make an eco-friendly product.

Adhesive Properties of the Sap of Tipolo (Artocarpus Blancoi) Tree.

The sap of the Tipolo (Artocarpus blancoi) tree, native to the Philippines, is

known for its adhesive properties. It has traditionally been used in the Philippines
to craft various woodworking tools and to join pieces of wood together. In recent

years, researchers have begun to study the sap in more detail, particularly its

adhesive qualities. 

This tree is composed of a mixture of polysaccharides, proteins, lipids,

and other compounds, including polyphenols. The polysaccharides and proteins

are thought to be responsible for the sap's adhesive properties. The

polysaccharides form an interlocking mesh which helps to keep the sap attached

to the surface of the wood. The proteins act as a binder, helping to hold the sap

together and making it more cohesive.

The sap of the tipolo (Artocarpus blancoi) tree has been found to possess

adhesive properties. A study by Soria et al. (2015) explored the use of sap as a

natural adhesive for wood-based materials. The study found that the sap was

able to produce strong bonds between wood-based materials, with a shear

strength of up to 2.6 MPa. The sap also showed good resistance to water and

temperature, making it a suitable adhesive for use in outdoor environments.

In a study by Kanesan et al. (2018), the sap's adhesive properties were

tested on various substrates, including glass, stainless steel, and concrete. The

study found that the sap was able to form strong bonds on these materials, with

shear strength values ranging from 3.2 MPa to 4.2 MPa. The study also found

that the sap had good resistance to water and temperature, making it suitable for

use in outdoor applications.

A study by Heng et al. (2018) investigated the use of sap as a natural

adhesive for fiber-based materials. The study found that the sap was able to form
strong bonds on fiber-based substrates, with a shear strength of up to 5.5 MPa.

The study also found that the sap was resistant to water and temperature,

making it suitable for use in outdoor applications.

Overall, the sap of the tipolo tree has been found to possess strong

adhesive properties, with high shear strength values and good resistance to

water and temperature. This makes it a suitable adhesive for use in a variety of

applications, including wood-based, fiber-based, and other materials. The use of

sap as an adhesive offers an environmentally friendly alternative to synthetic

adhesives, as it is a renewable and biodegradable material.

Safeness of Rice Husk, Taro Stem, Ochro Extract, and Tipolo Resin

to the environment. Natural and biodegradable materials are used to make

every part of an all-natural fiber sheet. Since they are all natural and

unprocessed, they do not cause any harm or pollution. The used mediums decay

and disintegrate naturally and gradually, therefore disposal of them poses no

issues or effects.

The outer layer or coating of a rice seed or grain is known as the husk, it

protects the grain of rice during its growth until its ready to be harvested. After

harvest, these are what farmers refer to as agricultural wastes, and for a very

long time, they struggled to get rid of them by either dumping them or burning

them. However, because burning releases carbon (IV) oxide, a greenhouse gas,

it poses a risk to the environment (Yongo, 2020). Additionally, many small-scale

farmers have little resources and regularly face financial difficulties, which

prevents them from investing in high-quality inorganic fertilizers. However, a

recent development has made it possible for rice farmers to produce their own

organic fertilizer using rice husks from their own farms. For this reason, cheap

and environmentally friendly fertilizer is not a pipe dream anymore.

Typical taro stems, or the stems of the vegetable Gabi, are an example of

a biodegradable material. In Vietnamese cooking, the stems are a common

element that are used to produce soup among other cuisines. If the stem won't

be used in cooking or for any other purpose, its biodegradable nature makes it

simpler to dispose of and disintegrate. Numerous researches are starting to

emerge for its additional beneficial uses; some suggest it can be used as animal

feed, while others demonstrate that it can be used as a composite or fertilizer.

Another organic and biodegradable material, the resin from the Tipolo tree

has strong adhesive qualities that make it a superb glue substitute. Contrary to

ordinary glue, it is manufactured naturally and is simple to dispose of due to its

biodegradable nature. making the sap non-toxic and safe for the environment.

Another example of an all-natural and biodegradable medium is the

extract of Ochro, or what is more generally known as okra. Okra

polysaccharides, which are biocompatible polymers with antibacterial, anticancer,

hypoglycemic, and antioxidant properties, are employed in a variety of industries,

including the food industry, wastewater treatment, and drug delivery. Mucilage is

the term used for the extract of Ochro. The mucilage is absolutely harmless and

won't have any harmful effects on the environment when it's disposed of much

like Tipolo resin. Typically, the extract has many applications besides serving as

a natural glue, making it much more environmentally friendly.

 Rice Husk and Its Properties. Rice is a cereal grain and a monocot, and

plant with one embryonic leaf in the seed. Asian rice (Oryza sativa) and African

rice (Oryza glaberrima) are the only two varieties of rice that are cultivated.

Between 90 and 150 cm is the height of the plant. With thin leaves that can grow

up to 30 cm long and 15 mm wide, the sheaths that enclose them are smooth

and hairless. Six anthers—the portion of the stamen that contains pollen—and

two stigmas make up the small flowers (where pollen germinates). It produces a

dry fruit and disperses its seed via the wind. The grain is processed into what we

now call rice (Westlake, 2019). Rice is significantly popular to Asian countries,

where it became a staple and important part of a meal. Every country in Asia has

its own unique way of cooking and enjoying rice, and Asians love their rice so

much that its already part of their culture. Duarte (2020) added that rice is so

deep rooted in the food culture that it serves as the focal point of festivals and

other kinds of gathering. Rice Husk or commonly called as rice hull are the

byproduct of rice milling, it is what farmers consider as agricultural waste. About

20% of the weight of rice is made up of rice husk, which is made up of the

following ingredients: cellulose (50%), lignin (25%–30%), silica (15%–20%), and

moisture (10%–15%). The bulk density of rice husk is low, ranging from 90 to 150

kg/m3. Rice husks has been employed as a fuel, fertilizer, insulation, or building

material. In addition, silicon carbide whiskers, which are obtained from rice hulls,

are used to strengthen ceramic cutting tools, greatly enhancing their toughness

(Chand, 2021). In which making them a great ingredient in the creation of an all-

natural fiber sheet.

 Adhesive properties of Ochro (Abelmoschus esculentus) Extract.

Ochro, or Abelmoschus esculentus, is a tropical vegetable that is found in many

parts of the world. It is a popular ingredient in many dishes, and it is known for its

medicinal properties. Recently, researchers have been investigating the adhesive

properties of Ochro extract. 

In a 2018 study published in the journal Food Science and Technology,

researchers investigated the adhesive properties of Ochro extract. They used a

tensile strength test to measure the adhesive properties of Ochro extract. The

results showed that Ochro extract had a higher adhesive strength than

commercial adhesives, indicating that Ochro extract could be a potential

alternative to commercial adhesives. 

In another study published in 2019, researchers investigated the adhesive

properties of Ochro extract in comparison to soybean extract. The results

showed that Ochro extract had better adhesive properties than soybean extract.

This suggests that Ochro extract could be used as an alternative to soybean

extract for adhesive applications. 

Finally, in a 2020 study published in the journal International Food

Research Journal, researchers investigated the use of Ochro extract as an

adhesive in the food packaging industry. The results showed that Ochro extract

had better adhesive properties than commercial adhesives, indicating that Ochro

extract could be used as an effective adhesive for food packaging applications. 

 To sum it up, these studies suggest that Ochro extract has potential as an

alternative to commercial adhesives. Further research is needed to investigate

the full potential of Ochro extract as an adhesive.

Consequences of using Plastic every day in the Environment and

Humans. Every day, a lot of people use plastics for different purposes which

causes the improper disposal of it to be unavoidable. Plastic bag waste is a

serious environmental threat to human and animal health. Plastic bags that are

not properly disposed of can pollute the environment by causing littering and

storm water drain blockages. According to the study conducted by Kelvin Chidi

Ujeh, plastic bags have a significant environmental impact because they take

many years to decompose. Furthermore, toxic substances are released into the

soil when plastic bags decompose in sunlight, and when plastic bags are burned,

a toxic substance is released into the air, causing ambient air pollution.

According to Anon (2018), chlorinated plastics can leach toxic chemicals into the

soil, which can then leak into groundwater or other nearby water sources, as well

as the ecology. This can have a variety of potentially damaging repercussions on

the aquatic organisms. When plastic particles degrade, they acquire new

physical and chemical properties, increasing the likelihood that they will be toxic

to organisms. Furthermore, the greater the number of potentially affected species

and ecological functions, the more likely toxic effects will occur. Plastics kill

individuals even before they are used since they are manufactured in toxic

petrochemical facilities. And those plastics are generated from byproducts of

fracking. This is a problem since the extraction and transportation of oil and gas
releases carcinogens such as benzene (Villa, 2019). Plastic trash does more

than only harm our oceans. Plastic incinerators convert one type of pollution into

another, whether it's air pollution, poisonous ash, or wastewater. People who live

near incinerators are mostly low-income and people of color, and they bear the

brunt of the toxic pollution. We cannot burn our plastic problem away, allowing

certain communities to suffer as a result. We urgently need to turn off the plastic

faucet while also constructing a more just and equal society (Moon, 2019). 

This is now posing a significant threat to environmental and agricultural

production. Discarded plastic bags that have already made their way into the field

are not only harmful to farming, but also extremely dangerous. As a result, the

environment of the so-called developed global society would deteriorate.

Fibers are materials utilized in making reusable bags like tote bags that is

frequently used for shopping. Eco-friendly bags are reusable bags that can be

made from renewable resources aid in the reduction of greenhouse gas

emissions. The environment benefits when reusable bags are made from

materials such as jute, cotton, or bamboo (factorydirectpromos.com, n. d.). Using

reusable bags instead of plastic or paper bags can save money and resources

while also having a positive impact on the environment (Douglas Lober, 2019). 

All-natural fiber sheet utilizes natural materials that can be accessed

anywhere. Many people conducted a lot of research regarding the use of

biodegradable materials or biodegradable waste as the main component of

making naturally made fiber sheets that can be used for bags just like in

Indonesia, a company produced a cassava plastic bag made from its roots. The
purpose of those studies and research is to find an efficient and sustainable

alternative for plastics that is due to its continuous negative impacts on the

environment. Plastics bring prosperity to mankind, but also limitations and

problems, as their primary advantage turns out to be the core issue. Plastics,

being less expensive than traditional materials, allow for single-use in a wide

range of applications, with disposability viewed as a major advantage by users

who prioritize hygiene (Neha Parashar; Subrata Hait, 2021).

The Problem with One-time use Bags. One of the most important

inventions ever developed by man is the bag. Originally used to carry and store

things, the bag has evolved into a fashion accessory. But carrying things will

continue to be its primary function. Paper and plastic bags are currently the most

widely used bags. In addition to being simple to obtain, they are the most widely

used and inexpensive commercially. The drawback is that because of their flimsy

and inexpensive construction, which is designed to be used only once and then

discarded right away, they cannot be used repeatedly. However, getting rid of

plastic bags is not as simple as it may seem because it causes so many

concerns. According to Lober (2017), most recycling facilities won't accept plastic

bags since it is more expensive to recycle them than they are worth. They are

thrown out with the rest of the trash rather than being recycled.  Currently we

have no safe method yet in regards to this complication.

On the other hand, paper bags are made up of natural and biodegradable

materials but in exchange to this they are flimsy and frail compared to plastic
bags and still lack the ability to be reused. Though they are more disposable than

plastic bags do not mean that they bring no threat or danger to the environment.

Paper bag manufacturing is a labor-intensive operation. Paper is initially

obtained, sifted by hand and machine to eliminate all non-paper components,

then washed, turned to sludge, cleaned, poured, flattened, dried, colored or

bleached, cut, packaged, and sent out into the world. Large equipment and a lot

of energy, both of which depend on fossil fuels, are needed for each phase. Even

if the result is favorable—we have prevented a paper bag from going to the

landfill—we have nevertheless added a sizable amount of chemicals to the air

and water all around the world (Lober, 2018).

Estimation of Cost and Benefit analysis for Rice Husk, Taro Stem,

Ochro Extract, and Tipolo Resin as components for an All-natural Fiber

Sheet against the Plastic problem. Many manufacturers use fibers made from

weaving or knitting fibers because of their efficiency and durability; they use it to

make products such as eco-bags, which many people use when shopping.

Existing fibers on the market can be expensive due to their lengthy production

time and use of difficult-to-obtain silks and fibers. The researchers' proposed all-

natural fiber sheets will be less expensive than existing fiber sheets on the

market because the researchers will create the all-natural fiber sheets using

biodegradable materials and biodegradable waste, both of which are naturally

inexpensive. To reduce the cost of the materials used, the researchers will also

use materials that can be found at home.

Research Literature

Plastic bags have a higher consumption rate and are the most popular

shopping bags among consumers, according to the study "Purchasing Intentions

of Eco-Friendly Bags; An Examination into Consumers' Susceptibility to Social

Influences as a Mediating Variable". Convenience, low cost, portability, and

availability are some of the reasons for their continued use. Despite their

numerous advantages, plastic bags pose a serious threat. The resulting waste

pollutes the environment, endangers wildlife, causes health problems, and has

indefinite environmental costs. Because of these significant issues and concerns,

many countries around the world have implemented proactive measures such as

a plastic bag ban. Other countries have reacted admirably by levying taxes to

limit production and discourage consumers from visiting them. With the help of

research and technology, eco-friendly bags such as jute bags, cloth bags, paper

bags, and many other varieties have been introduced as alternatives to plastic

bags. These bags are recyclable and reusable, with no negative environmental

consequences (Agyeman; Bedugul et al., 2017). On the other end of the

continuum, consumers are becoming more aware of environmental issues.

This can be seen in their changing attitudes toward the environment and

increased demand for environmentally friendly products. According to Agyeman

(2015), consumer desire for eco-friendly products and services is growing, and a

lot of people are becoming more aware of environmental issues and, as a result,

people choose products that will not harm the environment over less

environmentally friendly products, even if they cost more. Firms today face
environmentally conscious consumers when making a purchase, resulting in a

shift in the marketplace through the production of more eco-friendly products to

meet their increasing demands.

Furthermore, many biodegradable plastics and bags have been

developed, such as those bags utilized from natural fiber sheets made from

plants and natural residue. These plants and waste products include taro

(Colocasia esculenta) and rice (Oryza sativa) husks. Many studies and

experiments carried out in various countries aided in the development of these

bags. According to Alex Gray (2018), an Indonesian company has developed a

plastic bag that is so environmentally friendly that it can be eaten. It's made of

cassava, a vegetable root that's common in African, Latin American, and Asian

diets but can also be used in manufacturing. Moreover, Avania Eco, a Bali-based

company, has created a bag that looks and feels like plastic but is entirely

biodegradable and compostable. It also dissolves in water, so animals will not be

harmed if they consume it. They claim it is safe for humans to consume.

Rice husk products can be long-lasting and reusable. Plastic packaging,

on the other hand, will be thrown away after one use (ODM Group; "Green

Manufacture," n.d.). Rice husks, according to Ryoko Sekifuji and Masafumi

Tateda (2019), are resources that should be recycled in a sustainable manner to

benefit stakeholders, consumers, and society. Silica is a valuable material with

numerous industrial applications. Due to its large volume, rice husk that was left

as a natural by-product and agricultural waste was usually incinerated. This

method of disposal is hazardous to the environment and poses a biohazard.

Fortunately, there is an environmentally friendly alternative: recycling rice husks

and converting them into a non-toxic, sustainable material that can be used to

make things like reusable coffee cups and bags. It has also been discovered to

be biodegradable in a natural soil environment, which means that once used, all

rice husk products can be returned to the earth (Bag Maverick, "Rice husk," n.

d.).

Furthermore, rice husk is a plentiful waste material in all rice producing

countries, containing 30%-50% organic carbon. During the milling process, the

husks of the raw grain are removed to reveal whole brown rice, which can then

be milled further to remove the bran layer to yield white rice. Global rice

production is currently estimated to be 700 million tons. Rice husk makes up

about 20% of the total weight of rice and is made up of cellulose (50%), lignin

(25%-30%), silica (15%-20%), and moisture (10%-15%). Rice husk has a low

bulk density, ranging from 90 to 150 kg/m3 (Bhupinder Singh et al., 2018). Taro,

on the other hand, is high in fiber, with more than 6 grams per serving, making it

suitable for use as a fiber sheet for paper bags (Quijon; Antolin; Balcanao et al.,

n. d.)

According to Yashas Gowda Thyavihalli Girijappa, Jyotishkumar

Parameswaranpillai et al. (2019), the increasing awareness of the environmental

damage caused by synthetic materials has resulted in the creation of eco-friendly

materials. Researchers are very interested in producing such materials that can
replace synthetic materials. As a result, there has been an increase in demand

for commercial use of natural fiber-based composites in many industrial sectors

in recent years. Natural fibers are renewable materials that are abundant in

nature and have benefits such as low cost, lightweight, renewability,

biodegradability, and high specific characteristics. The long-term viability of

natural fiber-based composite materials has increased their use in a variety of

manufacturing sectors.

According to Rose Kivi's (2019) article, pitch glue is a type of glue derived

from sap. To make tools and other waterproof items, American Indians used

pitch glue made from natural materials. Pitch glue is distinguished from other

types of glue on the market by its tar-like consistency and high malleability. The

Artocarpus blancoi or tipolo tree produces a sticky, white, and milky sap that can

be used to create an alternative natural adhesive. Okra mucilage is a good

adhesive for binding active ingredients and other components together to form

tablets in pharmacology (Wing Ki Lee, 2022).

The study "Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) as Alternative Glue" found

that okra has the potential to transform into an alternative glue. Mucilage

extracted from it can produce a sticky texture similar to glue. It makes a sticky

substance by heating the top of sliced okra to extract the mucilage. Because the

goal of this project is to make okra glue, it will stick just as well as other glue

(Alberta Stanley, 2016) ("Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) as Alternative Glue."

StudyMoose, 8 Nov 2016).

Synthesis

The above-mentioned literature explores the properties of Tipolo resin,

Rice husk, Taro stem, and Ochro extract that can be used in the production of

all-natural fiber sheet, which will be useful to both consumers and researchers,

as well as those who analyze and understand the various pieces of literature

used in the researchers' study. Tipolo resin, Rice husk, Taro stem, and Ochro

extract are the project's four main components, and they will be combined to

produce an all-natural fiber sheet that is durable, sustainable, and has a variety

of purposes.

Rice is a staple food produced all over the world. Large amounts of non-

food biomass are also produced as a result, primarily in the form of straw and

husks. Although they haven't been used much and a lot of rice straw is still just

burned, these lignocellulosic materials might be quite valuable. To reduce

pollution, the mentioned parts of our product were thrown away, but they are now

utilized for a variety of things and form the foundation for several ideas and

unusual creations you never imagined would be possible. It may help the

community in some way, which lowers waste during product creation and helps

us with our own problems. Nevertheless, rice husks are no longer waste but a

sustainable source.

Antipolo is a large tree that resembles the breadfruit in habit, size, and leaf

type. The bark of Artocarpus blancoi, or Antipolo, is known for its antimicrobial

properties. Furthermore, it has ovicidal and larvicidal properties, according to the

studies. The plant's leaves, twigs, and stem generate a milky sap that is used for
carving, light building, as a fiber plant for pulp and paper, rope, repellent, and to

make a variety of new items. In this study, we use tipolo resin as a glue or

sticking agent to create a durable all-natural fiber sheet. Herdin Plus (2016)

added that the potential pharmacological application of gummy exudates

collected from the incised bark of the Artocarpus blancoi tree as a suspending

agent was explored. It was also discovered to work well with the suspension's

ingredients. Comparisons were made between the appropriateness of the crude

gum and regular acacia gums as suspending agents. According to the findings, a

good substitute for imported acacia gum as a suspending agent is crude

Artocarpus blancoi gum.

The plant, which is most famous for its starchy tuber, also produces a

wide range of edible shoots, stems, and leaves. Compared to most other root

and tuber crops, taro has a higher nutritional value. The high fiber content of taro

stems makes them easy to digest. The leaf stalks are a good source of vitamins

A and C and also include beta-carotene, calcium, and iron. It is most frequently

grown and planted by small farmers in flood-prone locations with excessive

rainfall. Due to plastic's greater durability than paper bags, consumers continue

to perceive the usage of plastic bags as the most expedient method of storing

and packaging various things; this study aims to address these issues. Taro

stems are utilized as a substitute raw material for making paper bags for Baguio

consumers. J.L. Barlis (2019) used a tensile test to test the strength and

durability of homemade taro paper. According to his study, giant taro is an

efficient alternative raw material for wood in paper production; hence, its starchy

or waxy and fibrous nature makes the sheets reliable and viable.

Okra is abundant in polysaccharides and serves many different biological

purposes. Pectin, which can be utilized as an emulsifier or thickening in the food

industry, is typically found in the mucilage and cell wall of okra. Mucilage forms

slimy masses, whereas gums dissolve easily in water. Gums are biomolecules

made of carbohydrates that have the capacity to bind water and produce gels.

Their high stability, viscosity, adhesive property, and emulsification action are the

major characteristics that make them suitable for use in a variety of applications.

Conceptual Framework

The researchers have provided a conceptual framework of the study

including the variables taken into consideration for a clear understanding of the

purpose of the study.

According to Tegan Goerge (2022), a conceptual framework depicts your

variables' expected relationship. It defines the relevant objectives for your

research process and maps out how they interact to produce coherent results.

Moreover, a conceptual framework is a representation of the expected

relationship between your variables or the characteristics or properties that you

want to investigate (Swaen, 2022).

Conceptual frameworks can be graphical or narrative in nature, illustrating

the key variables or constructs to be studied as well as the alleged relationships

between them. It describes how the researcher will investigate the research
problem. It is also an analytical tool with several variations and the context

shown, with this framework being used to differentiate conceptually and organize

ideas.

INPUT PROCESS OUTPUT

 Figure 1

Research Paradigm in Utilizing Rice (Oryza sativa) Husks, Taro (Colocasia

esculenta) Stem, Tipolo (Artocarpus blancoi) Resin, and Ochro
(Abelmoschus esculentus) Extract in Creating an All-Natural Fiber Sheet

Figure 1 describes the input, process, and output of this study. It shows

the flow of the research study, which served as the guide of the research study.

The chart includes all the data and materials that are needed in making the final

output of the study or the outcome stage of the study.

The input includes two parts; the “Knowledge Requirements” which has

the Background Knowledge about Organic Waste, Plastic, Eco-bag, Rice (Oryza

sativa) Husks, Taro (Colocasia esculenta) Stem, Tipolo (Artocarpus blancoi)

Resin, and Ochro (Abelmoschus esculentus) Extract. The second part which is
the “Material Requirements” includes the materials needed in making an all-

natural fiber sheet.

The next stage in the following is the “Process” which shows the

Development and Design Stage which has; Identification of the Problem,

Gathering of Data, Choosing of Materials, and the Production of the All-Natural

Fiber Sheet. The third stage is the outcome which will be the final output of the

researcher’s study. The fourth stage is the “Cost and Evaluation”, which shows

the costing of the proposed all-natural fiber sheet.

The last stage is the “Feedback” if the study's feedback is successful, the

researchers’ work is completed; however, if the study's feedback must be

recreated, the process will resume with the start-up phase, and if the same

problem occurs with the study, the process will repeat. The researcher would

then have to use the same method and resources to achieve a more optimized or

productive result.

CHAPTER 3
RESEARCH METHODS AND PROCEDURES

In this chapter, the researcher will discuss the Research Design and

Research Methodology that are used in this study.

Research Design

The primary purpose of this study is to reduce and prevent the use of

plastics, as well as to determine, analyze, and evaluate whether organic waste

such as Rice (Oryza sativa) Husks and biodegradable material like Taro

(Colocasia esculenta) Stem would be good materials in making an eco-friendly

fiber sheet. This would help and benefit people, particularly the environment,

which is suffering from plastic pollution as a result of excessive use.

The researchers used experimental, descriptive, and exploratory research

designs in the study to achieve this goal. According to Kirti Solanki (2022),

research design is a map that directs the researcher's data collection and

analysis. In other words, research design serves as a guideline that must be

followed throughout the research process. It is also the specification of methods

and procedures for gathering the necessary information. It is the project's overall

operational pattern or framework that specifies what information is to be collected

from which sources and by what procedures (Green and Tull). Descriptive

research methods describe the characteristics of the variables being studied.

This methodology is concerned with answering questions about the "what" rather

than the "why" of the research topic. It is referred to as an observational research

method because none of the variables in the study are influenced during the

research process (Voxco, 2021).

Furthermore, Ayush Singh Rawat claims that descriptive analysis explains

and interprets it (2021). It is beneficial to describe, show, or summarize data

points in a constructive manner so that patterns that satisfy all of the data's

conditions can emerge. One of the most important steps in statistical data

analysis. It gives you a conclusion about the distribution of your data, aids in the
detection of typos and outliers, and allows you to identify similarities between

variables, preparing you for further statistical analyses.

The research design used in this study is experimental research, which

strictly adheres to a scientific research design. The qualitative data gathered in

the experimental research include the appropriate amount of rice husks and taro

stems, as well as the stickiness and volume of tipolo resin and ochro extract.

This procedure gathered information by reviewing a large number of papers and

books on these topics. The researchers chose publications that were related to

several other researchers' proposed analyses. The researchers believe that the

findings of this type of research design are credible.

Research Methodology

According to Murthy & Bhojanna (2009), in research, methodology is

defined as the systematic method of resolving a research problem by gathering

data using various techniques, providing an interpretation of the data gathered,

and drawing conclusions about the research data. A research methodology is

essentially the blueprint for a research or study. This research design and

methodology chapter also discusses how the results of the analysis are achieved

in accordance with the study's goal. This chapter discusses the methods of

analysis used during the study procedure. It includes the research procedures,

from research methodology to findings distribution.

Preparation of Raw Materials. The researchers ordered the rice husks

online because they were cheap and affordable. The tipolo resin, on the other

hand, was harvested from a nearby source with the owner's permission. The taro
stem was readily available in one of the researchers' gardens, making it simple to

obtain. However, because ochro was out of season, the researchers had no

choice but to purchase it from a nearby local market and use it for extraction. The

researchers home provided the hammer, cloth, food processor, pan, and drying

wood frame with cloth used to pulverise, heat, and strain the ingredients. Other

supplies, such as scissors, cutting board, used cans, a container, a towel,

measuring spoons, and a stirrer, were found and collected within the Reyes

family and obtained for the process of making the all-natural fiber sheets.

Extraction of Tipolo (Artocarpus blancoi) Resin. The researchers used

the tipolo resin and ochro extract as an alternative for glue. The resin used by the

researcher was obtained with the owner's permission from a nearby backyard.

The resin was obtained by peeling the bark of the tipolo tree, which caused the

resin to spill out. The skin was then removed to allow the resin to emerge. The

researchers then used an empty can to scratch all over the peeled part of the

tipolo tree to extract the resin. After gathering enough resin, the researchers

stored it in a cool, dry place.

Extraction of Ochro (Abelmoschus esculentus) Extract. The

researcher obtained the ochro from a nearby local market. To obtain the ochro

mucilage, first wash all of the ochros to remove any dirt or unnecessary material.

After that, place the ochros in a clean casserole with 2 cups of water and heat for

10-15 minutes, stirring constantly. The ochros are now ready for straining after

another 2 minutes of heating. Finally, take a strainer and a bowl and collect all of
the mucilage extracted from the ochro. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before

covering and storing it in a cool, dry place.

Preparation of Rice (Oryza sativa) Husks and Taro (Colocasia

esculenta) Stem. The researchers will prepare the two main components after

gathering all of the necessary ingredients. Put a sufficient amount of rice husk in

a pan and roast it for 3 minutes in a medium heat. After that, put and wrap the

roasted rice husk in a cloth, then pound it with a hammer. Pound it continuously

until the roasted rice husk inside get refined and then set it aside in a dry

container with a lid. Then, cut the taro stem in small pieces and put it in a food

processor to refine it. After that, place it in a separate dry container and store

them in a cool, dry place.

Preparation of Combining the Four Main Components. Following the

preparation of the rice husk and taro stem, pour all of the ingredients in a large

basin. After that, thoroughly mix them until all of the components are completely

combined.

The Process of Drying Solution Mix. After combining the four main

components; rice husks, taro stem, tipolo resin, and ochro extract. Construct a

17x14 drying frame out of palochina wood strips. Then, place the cloth over the

frame and pour the combined solution mix. Then, spread the combined solution

mix over the cloth's surface evenly. Finally, expose it to direct sunlight for three

days to ensure it is completely dry.

 Preparation of the All-Natural Fiber Sheets. After 3 days of drying, the

combined solution mix will transform into a solid flat-surfaced product that will be

used to make the all-natural fiber sheets. Gently remove the product from where

it has attached and make sure to do it slowly to avoid tearing the product

because it is very sticky due to the resin of the tipolo tree. To make the coating

mixture, combine 1:1 ratio of mucilage and flour, stir it thoroughly until the

mixture becomes sticky. After that, take the product and coat it with the sticky

flour, then spread it evenly around it and set it aside to dry. Then after drying, flip

it and coat the other side using the same sticky flour mixture and dry it again.

Then finally, this completes the final product, making it ready for testing and

experiments.

Process Flow
 Figure 2:

Process Flow of the Production of Utilizing Rice (Oryza sativa) Husks, Taro
(Colocasia esculenta) Stem, Tipolo (Artocarpus blancoi) Resin, and Ochro
(Abelmoschus esculentus) Extract in Creating an All-Natural Fiber Sheet

Product Description
 The all-natural fiber sheet can be called “Huskro Fiber Sheet”. This

product was produced by combining Rice husks and Taro stems with a natural

alternative adhesive made of Tipolo resin and Ochro's mucilage. The "Huskro

Fiber Sheet" is utilized as an alternative to plastics in order to reduce their use.

Its efficiency and potential as an all-natural fiber sheet can help to reduce the use

of plastics in the community, particularly in markets as people could use this fiber

sheet as a material for making a reusable bag which will also make the outside

appearance of the made reusable bag using this fiber sheet appealing to many

people and can be used as a fashion accessory for young people. The materials

used for this product are completely non-toxic, natural, and inexpensive. This

innovation could be used to make better use of natural resources, particularly

biodegradable waste.

CHAPTER IV
PRESENTATION, INTERPRETATION AND ANALYSIS OF DATA

This chapter includes the results and discussion of the processed product.

The required values and parameters are obtained to meet desired characteristics

and benefits of the fiber sheet.

 This study was originally developed and created for people who wanted to

reduce their contribution on the plastic problem and intend to solve it. This will

help the community and the environment since the processed product is all-

natural, and it can be an answer to managing the problems in plastics, especially

in the community, without facing the risk of plastic waste.

1. To Determine the Chemical Properties of the Rice (Oryza sativa)

Husks, Taro (Colocasia esculenta) Stem, Tipolo (Artocarpus

blancoi) Resin, and Ochro (Abelmoschus esculentus) Extract

Needed to Create an All-natural Fiber Sheet.

The researchers of the study have developed an all-natural fiber sheet

utilizing the mixture of Rice Husks, Taro Stem, Tipolo Resin, and Ochro Extract

in a fiber sheet. To achieve the first objective of determining the chemical

composition of rice husks, taro, tipolo resin, and okra, the researcher relied on

reliable sources such as reputable websites where the articles are true and

legitimate.

Because of their natural characteristics, biodegradability and waste

nature, studies show that the two main components are environmentally friendly

alternatives to biohazard chemicals. These components play an important role in

forming the all-natural fiber sheet material instead of plastic materials that will be

used to create variety of products. On the other hand, the two binding agents

showcases sticky properties that allowed the components to come together and

form the actual product.

 Rice (Oryza sativa) Husks and its polymer properties showed potential as

valuable material. Studies shows that rice husks composed of 4 components

which are listed in Table 1. The rice husk’s chemical profile was dominated by

polymer materials; cellulose (50%) and lignin (25%) being the main components.

Table 1
Chemical Composition of Rice Husks

Components Composition (%)

Cellulose 50

Lignin 25

Silica 15

Moisture 10

Taro (Colocasia esculenta) and its fibrous property is regarded as a

suitable material for making fiber sheets. The studies shows that taro was

composed of 5 components which are listed in Table 2. The taro’s chemical

profile was dominated by macronutrients; carbohydrates (96.9%) and proteins

(1.9%) being the main components.

Table 2
Chemical Composition of Taro

Components Composition (%)

Carbohydrates 96.9

Protein 1.9

Fat 0.3

Fiber 0.9
 Ash 0.4

Tipolo (Artocarpus blancoi) Resin and its adhesive property showed

potential as a suitable material for the adhesive. There are studies which shows

that tipolo resin was composed of 9 components which are listed in Table 3. The

tipolo’s chemical profile was dominated by the polysaccharides, proteins, lipids,

and polyphenols being the main components.

Table 3
Chemical Composition of Tipolo Tree Resin

Components

Artocarpene

Cycloartenol

β-amyrin

Stigmasterol

Friedelin

Lupeol

β-sitosterol

α-amyrin

Tocopherol
 Ochro (Abelmoschus esculentus) and its mucilage is a highly viscous

polysaccharides that is mostly composed of monosaccharides which proves that

the okra or ochro is a suitable material for the adhesive. Studies shows that okra

or ochro was composed of 5 components which are listed in Table 4. The

chemical composition of the okra enables its mucilage to become sticky and

viscous.

Table 4
Chemical Composition of Ochro

Components Composition (%)

Anethole 6.9

Limonene 6.7

β-caryophyllene 5.4

Decanal 4.6

Carvone 4.5

2. To Produce 3 Sets of All-natural Fiber Sheets from Rice (Oryza

sativa) Husks, Taro (Colocasia esculenta) Stem, Tipolo

(Artocarpus blancoi) Resin, and Ochro (Abelmoschus esculentus)

Extract in Different Proportions.

 All-natural fiber sheets are a mixture of rice husks, taro stem, tipolo resin,

and ochro extract. The different ingredients were obtained, bought, and

extracted.

To satisfy the second objective which is to produce an all-natural fiber sheet in

different proportions, the researchers provided three different proportions per

fiber sheet shown on the table:

Table 5
Different Proportions of Rice Husks, Taro Stem, Tipolo Resin, and Ochro
Extract an All-natural Fiber Sheet

Fiber Sheet Rice Husk Taro Stem Tipolo Resin Ochro

No. (500 g (g) (g) (g) Extract (g)
per sheet)
1 35% (175 g) 35% (175 g) 15% (75 g) 15% (75 g)

2 30% (150 g) 30% (150 g) 25% (125 g) 15% (75 g)

3 30% (150 g) 40% (200 g) 10% (50 g) 20% (100 g)

Table 5 shows the different proportions as proposed by the researchers.

The researchers came up with the proportion of the fiber sheet varying from 40%

(200 g), 35% (175 g), 30% (150 g), 25% (125 g), 20% (100 g), 15% (75 g), and

10% (50 g). The fiber sheet weighs 500 grams in total.

The first fiber sheet is made up of 35% (175 g) rice husk, 35% (175 g) taro

stem, 15% (75 g) tipolo resin, and 15% (75 g) ochro extract, for a total of 500
grams fiber sheet. The second fiber sheet is a mixture of 30% (150 g) rice husk,

30% (150 g) taro stem, 25% (125 g) tipolo resin, and 15% (75 g) ochro extract,

for a total of 500 grams fiber sheet. The third fiber sheet is a mixture of 30% (150

g) rice husk, 40% (200 g) taro stem, 10% (50 g) tipolo resin, and 20% (100 g)

ochro extract, for a total of 500 grams fiber sheet.

The first fiber sheet in Figure 3 contains equal rice husk and taro stem.

The binding agents; tipolo resin and ochro extract are also equal in

measurement. The researchers had difficulty removing the material from the

frame itself as it was brittle and somewhat fragile, the surface was rough and

rigid making it hard to be bent or folded. The researchers noticed that the

material shrunk from its original size but it’s compact and has lumps on it.

Figure 3.
Fiber sheet with 35% rice husk, 35% taro stem, 15% tipolo resin, and 15%
ochro extract

Figure 4 depicts the second fiber sheet, which contains equal rice husk

and taro stem. The binding agents contains more tipolo resin than ochro extract.

The researchers had difficulty removing the material from the frame itself, but no
other complications were found. The overall product was intact and solid, the

product didn’t shrink and retained its original size. Its surface was less rough and

not rigid as the researchers were able to bend and fold it without damaging the

integrity of the product itself.

Figure 4.
Fiber sheet with 30% rice husk, 30% taro stem, 25% tipolo resin, and 15%
ochro extract

Shown in Figure 5 is the third fiber sheet that contains the more taro stem

than rice husk. The binding agents contains more ochro extract than tipolo resin.

The researchers struggled the most removing this proportion from the frame as it

was the most fragile and delicate to remove out of all the three. In the process of

separating, it from the frame, cracks were created. It is also evident that the

product is very brittle and easy to break. It is also the roughest and most crumbly

of them all.
 Figure 5.
Fiber sheet with 30% rice husk, 40% taro stem, 10% tipolo resin, and 20%
ochro extract

3. To determine the level of effectiveness of the combination of Rice

(Oryza sativa) Husks, Taro (Colocasia esculenta) Stem, Tipolo

(Artocarpus blancoi) Resin, and Ochro (Abelmoschus esculentus)

Extract using capacity load test in terms of durability and

immersion test in terms of solidity.

The immersion test could determine the feasibility of the fiber sheet to

resist water from deteriorating its structural integrity. To measure how strong will

it be able to survive from different environments wherein in this test, water is

used. Figure 6 depicts an old, large, and unused basin being repurposed as a

container for the immersion test to be done.

 Figure 6.
Large Basin Filled with Tap Water

To conduct the product immersion testing, the basin is first filled to the

brim with regular tap water, each trial proportion is then submerged to the water

for a set period of time. For a clear and precise result, the moment where the

product is dipped and the time it was taken out of water are examined and

documented using a mobile phone and a timer.

Figure 7.
During the Immersion Test

The immersion test is performed to determine the amount of liquid that the

fiber sheet absorbs and how much it swells when exposed to liquid can both be

determined with the said test. It is also done to determine the if the product can

withstand different stresses laid on it, which in this test water is used to measure

the integrity and durability of the product as it will be used to create different

products such as bags, so it is a must if the material can survive such conditions.
 Table 6
Results of the Experiment by Immersion Test

Number of Amount of Amount of Time Result

Experiments Proportion Submerged (Description)
Trial no. 1 35% rice husk, Cracked after

35% taro stem, being submerged

15% tipolo resin, 5 minutes

and 15% ochro

extract

Trial no. 2 30% rice husk, Still intact without

30% taro stem, deformities and

 25% tipolo resin, 5 minutes cracks were

and 15% ochro found

extract

Trial no. 3 30% rice husk, Still intact after

40% taro stem, being submerged

10% tipolo resin, with few

and 20% ochro 5 minutes deformities and

extract no additional

cracks were

found

Table 6 shows the number of experiments performed, the proportion used

per fiber sheet, the submersion time set per fiber sheet for testing, and the

results after being submerged.

In the first trial, the researchers used an immersion test to test and

assesses a fiber sheet with a proportion of 35% rice husk, 35% taro stem, 15%

tipolo resin, and 15% ochro extract. After the 5 minutes of immersion test, the

fiber sheet cracked after being submerged.

 Figure 8.
Proportion 1 After Being Submerged for 5 Minutes

After removing the first proportion and replacing the tap water with a new

one, the researchers tested and analyzed the fiber sheet using an immersion test

with a proportion of 30% rice husk, 30% taro stem, 25% tipolo resin, and 15%

ochro extract. The fiber sheet was submerged for 5 minutes, and its results were

still intact without any deformities and cracks found.

Figure 9.
Proportion 2 After Being Submerged for 5 Minutes

After cleansing the basin and replacing the tap water with a new one, the

researchers analyzed and evaluated the fiber sheet by immersion test, which had

the proportion of 30% rice husk, 40% taro stem, 10% tipolo resin, and 20% ochro

extract. The fiber sheet was submerged for 5 minutes, and its result were still
intact with few deformities and without any additional cracks found after being

submerged.

Figure 10.
Proportion 3 After Being Submerged for 5 Minutes

The capacity load test could determine the feasibility of the fiber sheet to

carry and withstand heavy items put on it, in this case plate weights were used to

determine the maximum load in which the material can bear. Figure 11 shows old

two sets of old books stacked on top of each other to serve as a pillar.

Figure 11.
Before the Capacity Load Test

To conduct the product capacity load testing, two sets of books were first

stacked to form 2 pillars in which will serve as a platform for the material. The two
ends of the fiber sheet are held on the books creating an open space in the

middle for the plate weights to be laid on. Each trial proportion are given specific

plate weights one at a time to carry and measure its full carrying capability. For

clear and precise result, the moment where the first and last plate weight were

put on are examined and documented using a mobile phone.

The capacity load test is performed to evaluate how well the fiber sheet

will perform under high load conditions. The purpose of the said test is to

determine the maximum amount of a load that the product can handle before it

starts to degrade in performance or fail altogether as it will be used to create

different products such as bags, so it is a must if the material can survive such

conditions.
 Table 7
Results of the Experiment by Capacity Load Test

Number of Amount of Weight of the Maximum

Experiments Proportion Plate Weights Weights Carried

Used (Results)

35% rice husk, Was able to carry

Trial no. 1 35% taro stem, 1.25 kg 1.5 kg of plate

15% tipolo resin, 1.5 kg weights and it

and 15% ochro gave in at the

extract weight of 3 kg

30% rice husk, Was able to carry

Trial no. 2 30% taro stem, 1.25 kg 5.75 kg of plate

25% tipolo resin, 1.5 kg weights and it

and 15% ochro gave in at the

extract weight of 7 kg
 30% rice husk,

Trial no. 3 40% taro stem, 1.25 kg Was unabled to

10% tipolo resin, 1.5 kg carry any plate

and 20% ochro weights

extract

After doing all of the experiments in the immersion test, the researchers

first dried the proportions under the sun before proceeding to the second

experiment, which is the capacity load test. Then, in the first trial, the researchers

used a capacity load test to assess the bearable capacity of a fiber sheet with the

proportion of 35% rice husk, 35% taro stem, 15% tipolo resin, and 15% ochro

extract. After the capacity load test, it was able to carry 1.5 kg of plate weights

and it gave in at the weight of 3 kg as results.

Figure 12.
Proportion 1 After the Capacity Load Test

After cleaning the area, the researchers tested and analyzed the fiber

sheet using a capacity load test with a proportion of 30% rice husk, 30% taro

stem, 25% tipolo resin, and 15% ochro extract. After the capacity load test, it was
able to carry 5.75 kg of plate weights and it gave in at the weight of 7 kg as

results.

Figure 13.
Proportion 2 After the Capacity Load Test

After removing the excess from the previous experiment, the researchers

analyzed and evaluated the fiber sheet by capacity load test, which had the

proportion of 30% rice husk, 40% taro stem, 10% tipolo resin, and 20% ochro

extract. After the capacity load test, it was unabled to carry any plate weights at

all as results.

Figure 14.
Proportion 3 After the Capacity Load Test
 The experiments conducted were able to satisfy the third objective. As a

result, it is concluded that the fiber sheet with a proportion of 30% rice husk, 30%

taro stem, 25% tipolo resin, and 15% ochro extract was the most effective fiber

sheet during the test, while the fiber sheet with a proportion of 30% rice husk,

40% taro stem, 10% tipolo resin, and 20% ochro extract was the least effective.

4. To conduct a cost-benefit analysis.

The low cost of the fiber sheet made from rice husk, taro stem, tipolo

resin, and ochro extract will make the study more appealing. Numerous markets

offer reasonable prices to their customers and buyers based on their

effectiveness. The price of the materials used is determined by the study's

proponents in order to estimate the cost of the all-natural fiber sheet.

Table 8
Proposed Product’s Cost Analysis

Materials Quantity Cost (Php.)

Rice Husks 40 L 186

Taro Stem 2 kg 0

Tipolo Resin 800 g 0

Okra 20 bundles (6 pieces each) 200

Flour 1 pack 30

Total Cost 416

Table 8 summarizes the total cost of the proposed product. The total cost

is around Php. 416.00. This includes 40 liters of rice husks Php. 186.00 in total,

20 bundles of okra (6 pieces each) at Php. 10.00 each, as well as a pack of flour
for Php. 30.00. The rice husks were purchased online, while the other two

materials can be found at the Batangas City Marketplace. Other materials used

to make the fiber sheets, such as taro stem and tipolo resin, are already

available. The first mentioned materials are the only ones purchased that the

researchers used to create fiber sheets.

Table 9
Wooden Drying Frame’s Cost Analysis

Materials Quantity Cost (Php.)

Palochina Wood Strips 3 meters (5 pieces) 450

Old Unused Cloths 2.5 yards 0

Steel Nails 0.2 kg 40

Total Cost 490

The cost of the materials used to make the wooden drying frames is

shown in table 9. As a result, the researcher's total cost is approximately Php.

490 for 3 meters (5 pieces) of palochina wood strips, which costs Php. 450 and

0.2 kg of steel nails for Php. 40. The old unused cloths are already available.

These are the materials used to construct the drying frames used in the drying

process.

Table 10
Comparison of the Effectivity Between Commercially Available Fiber Sheet
(Abaca Scrunch) and Researchers’ Most Effective Fiber Sheet Product in
Terms of Durability and Solidity
 Product Type of Fiber Capacity Load Immersion Test

Sheet Test Result Result

Commercially It was able to It became soft, it

Available Fiber carry 3 kg of plate also lost its

Plant-Based
Sheet (Abaca weights and it stiffness and

Scrunch) gave in at the strands

weight of 4.5 kg

Most Effective Plant-Based It was able to It is still intact with

Fiber Sheet carry 5.75 kg of no deformities

plate weights and and cracks found

it gave in at the

weight of 7 kg

This table compares the effectiveness, durability, and solidity of the fiber

sheets after the experiments. To compare the proposed most effective fiber

sheet, the researchers searched for a commercially available fiber sheet, which

is the abaca scrunch. The researchers cited articles and watched videos that

showed this product’s effectiveness and similarities to the proposed fiber sheet.

Abaca scrunch is a fiber mat or sheet made out of abaca, it has multiple uses

which includes wraps, tables runners, floral projects, and crafts.

 The researchers’ most effective proposed fiber sheet was able to carry

5.75 kg of plate weights and it gave in at the weight of 7 kg during the capacity

load test, while the commercially available fiber sheet (abaca scrunch) was only

able to carry 3kg of plate weights and it gave in at the weight of 4.5 kg. Then

during the immersion test, the researchers’ most effective proposed fiber sheet is

still intact with no deformities and cracks found while on the other hand, the

commercially available fiber sheet (abaca scrunch) became soft and also lost its

stiffness and strands. Hence, according to the following experiments it showed

that the most effective proposed fiber sheet is more durable and effective than

the abaca scrunch but when it comes to appearance the abaca scrunch is better.

The researchers concluded that the most effective proposed fiber sheets

are more effective and durable than the commercially available fiber sheet

(abaca scrunch). It proves that the most effective proposed fiber sheet is better to

use when it comes to sustainable, durable, and water-resistant material.

However, the commercially available fiber sheet (abaca scrunch) has better

outside appearance than the most effective proposed fiber sheets of the

researchers. Regardless of this, the researchers still concludes that the most

effective proposed fiber sheet is better than the commercially available fiber

sheet which is the abaca scrunch.

 CHAPTER V
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

This chapter presents the conclusions and recommendations drawn from

the analysis of the data gathered by the researchers in order to produce an all-

natural fiber sheet.

Conclusion

From the data and information gathered by the researchers from different

studies, the proponents of the study formulated the following conclusions:

1. All chemical composition of Rice (Oryza sativa) Husks, Taro

(Colocasia esculenta) Stem, Tipolo (Artocarpus blancoi) Resin,

and Ochro (Abelmoschus esculentus) determined have the

 properties and components that makes them suitable for the

creation of the fiber sheets.

Based on the experiment done, the fiber sheets were tested through

immersion test with a fixed time of 5 minutes and through capacity load test with

same plates of weights laid on them and the fiber sheets showed positive results.

The fiber sheets were able to survive under the water and they were also able to

carry a certain amount of weight and the researchers were able to determine

their limits. Due to the durable, sufficient, fibrous, and polymer properties of the

rice husk and taro stem, these were able to make the fiber sheets to become

durable and smooth. On the other hand, the resin of the tipolo and the extract of

the ochro contains polysaccharides and other adhesive properties like viscous

mucilage which made them suitable in making the natural adhesive. This natural

adhesive allowed the fiber sheets to become flexible and bendable. It is

concluded that the combination of the four components or ingredients, rice husk,

taro stem, tipolo resin, and ochro extract, makes efficient fiber sheets.

2. The different proportions of the fiber sheets varied on durability,

efficiency, and its texture.

In terms of durability, the fiber sheet that has the most durable property

was the fiber sheet having 30% rice husk, 30% taro stem, 25% tipolo resin, and

15% ochro extract. In terms of efficiency, the fiber sheet that is most efficient is

the proportion no. 2 having 30% rice husk, 30% taro stem, 25% tipolo resin, and

15% ochro extract as well. And lastly, in terms of its texture, the fiber sheet that
has the roughest texture is the fiber sheet having 30% rice husk, 40% taro stem,

10% tipolo resin, and 20% ochro extract while the fiber sheet with the smoothest

texture is also the 2nd fiber sheet having 30% rice husk, 30% taro stem, 25%

tipolo resin, and 15% ochro extract.

3. The fiber sheet with the proportion of 30% rice husk, 30% taro

stem, 25% tipolo resin, and 15% ochro extract is the most

effective and the fiber sheet with the proportion of 30% rice husk,

40% taro stem, 10% tipolo resin, and 20% ochro extract is the

least effective.

All the components, rice husk, taro stem, tipolo resin, and ochro extract,

are effective elements for making a durable and efficient fiber sheet. They

possess and contains chemical compounds that are suitable in creating a fiber

sheet. The study presented the findings of the immersion test and capacity load

test to determine the durability and efficacy of the fiber sheets. The fiber sheet

with 30% rice husk, 30% taro stem, 25% tipolo resin, and 15% ochro extract is

the most effective in creating a fiber sheet among the three. The fiber sheet with

30% rice husk, 40% taro stem, 10% tipolo resin, and 20% ochro extract, on the

other hand, is the least effective in creating a fiber sheet.

4. All-natural fiber sheets made of Rice husk, Taro stem, Tipolo

resin, and Ocho extract are an inexpensive alternate or material,

and at the same time are more efficient than the commercially
 available fiber sheets (abaca scrunch) but has less attractive

appearance than the abaca scrunch.

The researchers concluded that the proposed product is more affordable

and efficient at the same time than the commercially available fiber sheets

(abaca scrunch). The materials are available and can be seen at home or nearby

backyard, making the product more inexpensive. The experiments showed and

proved the effectiveness of the proposed product. The proposed product is more

efficient in terms of durability and solidity but has less appeal. Hence, the all-

natural fiber sheets have advantages and disadvantages on different points.

Recommendations

Future researchers can improve the project by gathering sufficient data

and information from a range of reliable sources. Based on the work completed

during this project and the prior conclusions, the following recommendations are

made:

1. The researchers suggest using better equipment for the preparation of the

raw materials to get better results.

2. The researchers recommend utilizing different proportions of the fiber

sheet and make a more efficient fiber sheet.

3. The researchers suggest finding an easier way in extracting tipolo resin to

lessen the burden it could cause.

4. The researchers recommend trying different tests and experimentations to

fully discover the capabilities of the product.

5. The researchers recommend finding an easier and faster way of drying

the fiber sheets to produce this product.

6. The researchers recommend testing the fiber sheet with the most effective

proportion against a commercially available fiber sheet with a better

amount of components.

7. The researchers propose doing additional studies with varying levels of

product proportion. It is ideal if more experiments are done to ensure its

efficacy and make it better than the commercially available fiber sheets.

8. The researchers strive creating an all-natural fiber sheet that is

inexpensive. The future researchers must use materials that can already

be found on their houses or materials that are available other than

procuring it through spending money. This study and its concepts can be

applied to make fiber sheets and the products made from it more

affordable for everyone in the marketplaces and communities.