Statement of the Problem

The pressing issue under consideration pertains to the growing ecological

repercussions of non-biodegradable disposable plastic plates are substantial

contributors to plastic pollution, resulting in deleterious effects on ecosystems:

The objective of our research is to cultivate a sustainable and economically

viable substitute by formulating a biodegradable plate that uphold requisite structural

robustness, safety criteria, and cost effectiveness all the while reducing it’s

environmental impact.
Introduction

Expanding ecological awareness over the last few decades has inspired a

number of professionals and researchers to work on environmentally responsible and

sustainable materials that could partially or completely substitute synthetic, non-

biodegradable polymeric materials in a variety of applications. There is currently a great

deal of interest in the creation of biodegradable products made from non-food materials

for use in a variety of industries. Nayak, S., Barik, S., and Jena, P.K. (2021).

Single use plastic packaging and utensils led to growing environmental concerns

which resulted in higher demand for eco-friendly and sustainable substitutes. Dr. A.

Shaji George, and A. S. Hovan George. (2023).

According to K.V. Alvarez., R.M. Bulaong., E.N. Hipolito., et. Al (2019).

Biodegradable plastics are viewed as one of the most promising solutions to plastic

waste dilemma due to its natural degradative properties. Biobased additives, such as

starch, have been incorporated with fossil fuel-based plastics to create biodegradable

plastic goods, like bags and tableware.

Starch is a common organic substance that functions as a natural binder. D-

glucose in polysaccharides makes up starch, which is extracted from plants and used

as a store of energy. The modifies starch is an environmentally beneficial binder

because of its slightly rough surface.

The purpose of this study is to use the excess grasses to develop a new and

ecofriendly plate to avoid plastic pollution.

Moreover, this study is significant as it will benefit the following:

Foundation University. Foundation university can promote sustainable

practices, innovation, and community development by incorporating carabao grass

plates into its dining facilities and events. This will demonstrate a commitment to eco-

friendly practices and serve as a model for students, faculty, and the wider community.

The plates can provide educational opportunities for students across various disciplines,

allowing them to research, develop, and promote sustainable entrepreneurship. The

university can also benefit from research and development opportunities focused on

enhancing the quality, usability, and marketability of carabao grass plates. This will also

support local communities and promote sustainable economic opportunities. The use of

carabao grass plates can also inspire entrepreneurial initiatives within the university,

attracting environmentally conscious stakeholders.

Students. Through the result of this study students will be guided for their future

exploration for it will enlighten them on what to do in the near future.

Business industry. The study of carabao grass plates presents opportunities for

entrepreneurs and companies to diversify their product offerings. The production and

marketing of eco-friendly tableware made from natural materials can cater to the

growing demand for sustainable and biodegradable products in the food and hospitality

sectors. It can also lead to the development of niche markets, appealing to

sustainability credentials.

Future researchers. The study of carabao grass as a raw material for plate

production can open avenues for further research and innovation. It can lead to the

development of new techniques for processing and treating natural fibers, contributing

to the field of biomaterials and green technology. This can also pave the way for

collaborations between researchers, engineers, and entrepreneurs to explore the

commercial potential of similar natural materials in various industries beyond tableware,

such as packaging, construction, and textiles.

Null Hypothesis

The production of plates made from carabao grass (paspalum conjugatum) does not

have a significant impact on the environment compared to traditional plate materials.

Alternative Hypothesis

The production of plates made from carabao grass (paspalum conjugatum) has a

significant positive impact on the environment compared to traditional plate materials.

A Science Investigatory Project

In Partial Fulfillment
of the Requirements
in Chemistry for Engineers

By

Jimenez, Julie Henriette. Bagundol, Mary Lorraine. Melon, Kharyme

[Link], Theresa Mae. Gargoles, Albert Jr. Paez, Marc Antony. Nagar, Jhon

Lloyd. Napigkit, Jamica. Malones, Dave. Galapati, Jade. Lamis, Aaron

December 2023
Scope and limitations

Scope

This science investigatory project aims to develop a biodegradable plate using

environmentally friendly materials. It focuses on finding the most suitable materials yet

ecofriendly alternative to conventional plastic plates.

Limitations

Material constraints. Limited availability and accessibility of certain biomaterials

might present challenges in achieving an optimal design. Cost and scalability. The cost

effectiveness and scalability of producing these plates on a large scale could pose

limitations, particularly in comparison to conventional plastic plates. Testing timeframe.

Time constraints might limit the depth and duration of testing the biodegradability and

performance of the developed plate.

[Link]

[Link]
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[Link]
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 Chapter 3

Methodology

Materials

Carabao grass

C-clamp (heavy and light tool)

Plywood molded into a round shape

Starch (used as binder)

Procedure

To begin, thoroughly combine starch and water in a container to create a

uniform solution. After that, add the carabao grass to the mixture and soak it for a

specified period of time to ensure that the grass is evenly distributed. After soaking,

place the mixture in direct sunlight to accelerate drying. When the mixture has

sufficiently dried, place it in a molder and form it into the desired plate shape. Finally,

carefully form the mixture into the appropriate shape before placing it in the

biodegradable plate to cure and solidify.

Results and Discussions

The results of this study provide evidence of the feasibility of utilizing carabao

grass as a sustainable material for plate production. The physical properties of the

carabao grass plates compared favorably with conventional disposable plates,

indicating their potential as a practical alternative. The biodegradability of the plates

further underscores their environmental advantage, as they offer a solution to the

persistent issue of non-biodegradable waste generated by plastic and Styrofoam

products.

The use of carabao grass as a plate material also aligns with the principles of

sustainable and eco-friendly practices. Its abundance in the local environment makes it

a readily available and renewable resource, reducing the reliance on non-renewable

materials for plate production. Additionally, the low-impact processing and fabrication

methods contribute to minimizing the carbon footprint associated with plate

manufacturing.

Moreover, the potential economic benefits of utilizing carabao grass for plate production

should not be overlooked. This locally available material can provide income

opportunities for communities involved in its collection and processing. Furthermore, the

demand for sustainable and biodegradable tableware presents an opportunity for the

commercialization of carabao grass plates, contributing to the growth of environmentally

necessary to optimize the production processes and enhance the overall quality of

carabao grass plates. Refinements in the fiber extraction, treatment methods, and plate

fabrication techniques could lead to improvements in durability, water resistance, and

aesthetic appeal. Additionally, comprehensive life cycle assessments should be

conducted to evaluate the environmental impact of carabao grass plate production and

compare it with existing disposable plate materials.

In conclusion, the findings of this study support the potential of carabao grass

(Paspalum Conjugatum) as a viable and sustainable material for plate production. The

environmentally friendly attributes, coupled with promising physical properties, position

carabao grass plates as an attractive alternative to conventional disposable tableware.

Further research and investment in this area could pave the way for the widespread

adoption of eco-friendly and biodegradable tableware, contributing to the global effort to

mitigate plastic pollution and promote sustainable practices.