Misamis Occidental National High School

Oroquieta City

A Research Study entitled

Air-dried Lakatan Banana (Musa acuminata) Peels as Alternative Source of

Making Decorative Paper

Submitted for the Requirements in Research 3

John Lloyd B. Enguito

Researcher

Rea Malou C. Saren

Research Adviser

JOSEPHINE B. ENGUITO July 1, 2021

Parent Date
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

CONTENTS PAGE

Title Page i

Table of Contents ii

List of Tables iv

List of Figures v

Abstract vi

I. Introduction

Background of the Study 1

Objectives of the Study 3

Significance of the Study 3

Scope and Delimitations 4

Conceptual Framework 5

Conceptual and Operational Definition of Terms 5

Review of Related Literature 7

II. Methodology

Research Locale and Duration 11

Collection of Samples 11

Production of Decorative Paper from Banana Peels

Making the Paper Pulp 12

Molding the Paper 13

Drying and Flattening the Produced Paper 13

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Testing the Qualities of the Produced Paper

Testing the Tensile Strength of the Produced Paper 14

Testing the Folding Endurance of the Produced Paper 14

Testing the Moisture Retention Capacity of the Produced Paper 14

Waste Disposal 15

Data Analysis 15

Flow of Experimental Procedures 16

III. Results and Discussions 17

IV. Summary of Findings, Conclusions, and Recommendations 21

Acknowledgement

Researchers’ Profile

Bibliography

Appendices (Materials, Logbook, Documentation)

 iv

LIST OF TABLES

Contents Title Page

Table 1 Tensile Strength of the Banana Peel Paper 18

Table 2 Moisture Retention Capacity of the Banana 19

Peel Paper

Table 3 Folding Endurance of the Banana Peel Paper 20

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LIST OF FIGURES

Contents Title Page

Figure 1 Conceptual Framework showing the 5

Independent Variable and Dependent Variables

Figure 2 Location of Enguito’s Residence 11

Figure 3 Flow of Experimental Procedures 16

Figure 4 Calculation for the Moisture Retention Capacity 19

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ABSTRACT

This study aimed to produce a handmade decorative paper out of Air-died

Lakatan Banana (Musa acuminata) Peels. Banana peels contain up to 15% of

cellulose. As banana peels are more common part of any household’s everyday

waste as compared to other sources, utilizing its cellulose fiber content to

manufacture paper will substantially reduce human impact on the environment

(Balasubramanian & Balakrishnan, n.d.). Specifically, this aimed to determine the

qualities of the paper in terms of tensile strength, moisture retention capacity, and

folding endurance. First, using the method of Lucan (2013) as cited by (Carloman

et al., 2017; Micabanes et al., 2020), the tensile strength of the paper was tested.

The results showed that the produced decorative paper has the capacity to hold

2567.97 grams of coins. Second, following the method of Trautmann and Richard

(1996), the moisture retention capacity test indicates that the paper has 8.33%

moisture capacity. This means that it has exceeded the 6-7% quality standard for

moisture capacity set by the ISO. And lastly, using the method of Cagas et al.

(2015) as cited by Tizon et al. (2020), it was revealed that the paper has the

capability to withstand an average of 513 folds and that it is stronger compared to

the paper of Micabanes et al. (2020) and Hisula (2021). In conclusion, Air-dried

Lakatan Banana Peels can still be an alternative source of making decorative

paper and has a good quality in terms of tensile strength, moisture retention

capacity, and folding endurance.

 CHAPTER I

INTRODUCTION

Background of the Study

Paper is a mat of plant fibers that are dried and compressed. It is produced

by pressing together the pulp converted from the cellulose fibers extracted from

plants and trees, so they knit and fuse to form a strong, solid, yet flexible mat

(Woodford, 2020). Paper helps us to be more effective in our everyday routines.

At work or schools, papers help for better communication. Despite talking about

the "paperless environment" in this digital age, papers are still important for

copiers, printers, brochures, notepads, answer sheets and many other uses.

(Paper Products & Everyday Life, n.d.)

However, it also has a major impact on our environment. According to

Botanical Paperworks (2020), paper makes up 50% of the overall company waste,

and 45% of their paper imprinted ends up in the trash daily. Consequently, this

may account to over a trillion sheets of paper per year, worldwide. Based on

research, 93% of paper comes from trees (Steiner, 2018). Though it can also be

made from bamboo, cotton, hemp, jute, and a wide range of other plant materials,

most paper pulp is made from trees - mainly fast-growing or evergreen conifers

(Woodford, 2020). With that, over 60% of the roughly 17 billion cubic feet of timber

trees harvested worldwide each year is used for paper and pulp. In fact, the

Sunday edition of the New York Times alone requires 75,000 trees. (Paper Waste

- A Look at the Facts, 2020)

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In order to address the problem of deforestation, various studies about

alternative paper were created. These include the study of Micabanes et al. (2020)

entitled “Gabi (Colocasia esculenta taro) Stem and Leaves as Decorative Paper”

and “Bristol Paper from Cogon Grass (Imperata cylindrica) Spikelet” by Tizon et al.

(2020), which aimed to produce a handmade decorative paper from Gabi stem and

leaves and bristol paper out of Cogon grass spikelet respectively. Both studies

aimed to test and conclude the qualities of their produced paper in terms of tensile

strength, moisture retention, and folding endurance. After some several tests and

methods, they had found out that such alternatives can be used in making a paper.

In connection with these circumstances, the researcher came up with this

study that aimed to make a decorative paper out of air-dried lakatan banana (Musa

acuminata) peels. Banana peels contain up to 15% of cellulose. As banana peels

are more common part of any household’s everyday waste as compared to other

sources such as cloth fibers, utilizing the cellulose fiber content in banana peels to

manufacture decorative paper will substantially reduce human impact on the

environment. (Balasubramanian & Balakrishnan, n.d.)

Moreover, the banana peels underwent the air-drying process to see if this

method could still be an alternative source for making decorative paper, aside from

the other methods. Apart from this, in a practical sense, banana peels may not be

used to make paper immediately after consumption. In some situations, the peels

may just be left for several hours or even days before the consumer could have

time to utilize the peels causing them to have a somewhat similar appearance or

result to the peels that have undergone the air-drying process.

 3

Objectives of the Study

This study aimed to produce an organic decorative paper from Air-dried

Lakatan Banana (Musa acuminata) Peels. Specifically, this study aimed to:

1. determine if air-dried lakatan banana peels can still be an alternative source

of making decorative paper.

2. determine the quality of the organic decorative paper in terms of:

a. Tensile strength

b. Moisture Retention Capacity

c. Folding Endurance

Significance of the Study

Paper has been part of our everyday lives causing a large quantity of trees

being cut down to produce the demand of the consumers. That's why various

studies were created to provide solution to this problem. In connection with this,

the researcher decided to address the said problem by utilizing air-dried peels of

lakatan banana. Specifically, this study will benefit the following:

The consumers for this will serve as a cheaper alternative for expensive

existing decorative paper products and through giving them the idea of utilizing the

peels instead of throwing it away while eating its fruits.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), this

study will help them lessen the cutting down of trees for papermaking.

The paper industry because it is easy to make paper out of Lakatan

Banana peels and can also be sold by entrepreneurs for a cheap price that will

enhance the economy.

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The future and present researchers in making this as their basis in

conducting researches related to this study and to find more usage of Lakatan

Banana peels.

Scope and Delimitations

This study was conducted throughout the entire school year 2020 – 2021 at

Enguito’s Residence, Purok – 2, Mobod, Oroquieta City. It covered all the

procedures and raw materials in making the paper. In addition, this study aimed to

produce a handmade decorative paper out of air-dried peels of Lakatan Banana.

However, the determination of compact cellulose and identification of the

composition of the produced paper were not included.

Furthermore, the mold and deckle used in the production of paper was limited

to have a dimension of 20 cm by 20 cm, but the actual size of the produced paper

was not limited since sun drying may affect its sizes. The researcher also tested the

quality of the produced paper in terms of its tensile strength and moisture retention

capacity using the method adapted from Lucan (2013) and Trautmann and Richard

(1996) respectively as cited by (Carloman et al., 2017; Micabanes et al., 2020). First,

for the tensile strength, small weights (new and old one-peso coins) were put on top

of the paper one at a time to determine how much weight the paper can hold before

tearing. Second, for the moisture retention capacity, the paper was weighed before

and after dropping 5ml of water, and after leaving it for 30 minutes, which was

repeated three times. Lastly, the folding endurance was tested following the method

of Cagas et al. (2015) as cited by Tizon et al. (2020) wherein the paper was folded

in half, in a forward and backward motion, until the paper reached its tearing point.
 5

Figure 1. Conceptual Framework showing the Independent Variable and

Dependent Variables.

Dependent Variables
Tensile Strength
Independent Variable

The Fineness of the

Lakatan Banana (Musa Moisture Retention Capacity
acuminata) Peels Fiber

Folding Endurance

Conceptual and Operational Definition of Terms

The following terms were defined conceptually and operationally.

1. Banana. It is a long, curved fruit with a yellow skin and soft, sweet, white flesh

inside (Cambridge Dictionary, 2021). In this study, banana was used in producing

an organic paper wherein its peels were primarily utilized.

2. Folding Endurance. It measures the durability of paper when repeatedly folded

under constant load; determining how many times the paper can be folded until it

breaks (Smithers, n.d.). In this study, folding endurance measured how many times

the Banana Peel Paper can be folded which was tested using the method of Cagas

et al. (2015) as cited by Tizon et al. (2020).

3. Moisture retention capacity. It refers to the amount of water that a particular

thing can hold (Oxford Reference, 2021). In this study, this refers to the absorption

of water by the paper which was tested using the method of Trautmann and

Richard (1996) as cited by (Carloman et al., 2017; Micabanes et al., 2020).

 6

4. Paper. A felted sheet of usually vegetable fibers laid down on a fine screen from

a water suspension (Merriam-Webster Dictionary, 2021). In this study, this refers

to the product that was made using air-dried lakatan banana peels.

5. Tensile Strength. Refers to the maximum load that a material can support

without fracture when being stretched, divided by the original cross-sectional area

of the material (T. Editors of Encyclopaedia, 2020). In this study, tensile strength

was used to test the durability of the produced paper which was tested using the

method of Lucan (2013) as cited by (Carloman et al., 2017; Micabanes et al.,

2020).
 7

Review of Related Literature

Paper is a substance that contains a web of pulp fibers from wood or other

fibrous substances from which lignin and other non-cellulosic factors are detached

by cooking them with chemicals at high temperatures (Pahkala, n.d.). It is a

versatile material created with several uses wherein it is commonly utilized for

writing and printing purposes (Schoolwork Clutters, 2015). It is produced by

clasping the moist cellulose fiber that can be found in inner barks, leaves, and

grasses (Flores, 2015). Almost 2,000 years had passed when inventors in China

first crafted cloth sheets to record their drawings and writings. Before then, people

communicated through pictures and symbols etched on stone, bones, cave walls,

or clay tablets (The History of Paper, n.d.). Over those years, paper demands have

continuously grown, affecting the whole environment. (EPN Staff, 2014)

Since the 1960s, worldwide consumption of paper has quadrupled.

Accordingly, this became the major factor of the forestry industry: almost half of

the trees that were commercially cut around the world just resulted in paper

products. Yet, many of this paper use is wasteful or unnecessary and some of it is

associated with human rights abuses, forest destruction, pollution, and climate

change emissions. Paper use has escalated most in the digital age despite

technological advances like electronic communication, which could have offered

good alternatives. According to Environmental Paper Network (EPN, 2019), 45%

of office’s printed documents end up in the company’s wastes by the end of the

day: this is just a waste of trees, moreover, this is a huge waste of money. (Project:

Paper Saving and Efficiency, 2019)

 8

Also, Kempner (2016) stated that the process of manufacturing paper

releases nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and carbon dioxide into the air,

contributing to pollution such as acid rain and greenhouse gases. In America, for

instance, their paper industry is the 4th largest contributor to greenhouse gas

emissions which contributes 9% of the produced sector’s carbon emissions.

(Udeajah & Christian, 2013)

With these harmful impacts on our environment, several countries are

looking at other raw ingredients and methods for creating alternative paper

products. Similarly, companies across the planet are already looking at this and

taking a creative plan to address the concern (It’s paper, but not as we know it!,

2019). In connection with these circumstances, various studies about alternative

papers were also published.

A study conducted by Tizon et al. (2020) entitled “Bristol Paper from Cogon

Grass Spikelet” showed that cogon grass is a good alternative source of fiber for

papermaking. From the results of the tests and methods conducted that were

adapted from Cagas et al. (2015), the study showed that their produced paper had

the capacity to hold beyond 1430 grams, has a water holding capacity of 40%, and

was capable of withstanding utmost 380 folds.

A decorative paper was also produced by Micabanes et al. (2020) by

utilizing Gabi Stem and Leaves. Their testing which were adapted from Lucan

(2013) as cited by Carloman et al. (2017) revealed that their produced paper had

the capacity to hold up to 1140 grams, has a standard moisture retention capacity

of 8%, and was capable of withstanding an average of 438 folds.

 9

With the use of these data collected, the researcher came up with a study

that utilized Lakatan Banana peels to produce handmade decorative

paper. 'Lakatan' is a popular dessert banana in the Philippines. It was first

described as Musa paradisiaca Lacatan in the 19th century by Francesco Manuel

Blanco in his Flora de Filipinas (Vezina, Van den Bergh, & Crichton, 2020).

Lakatan appears to be the most common cultivar you’ll find all over the country. It

has a bright, highly saturated yellow hue on its just-thick-enough peel with an easy-

to-separate, relatively-flavorful inner lining the author enjoys gnawing on. Its flesh,

too, takes on a distinct yellow-to-orange color (pointing to its high levels of Vitamin

A), and carries a balanced taste that has just the right amounts of sweet, slightly

tangy, and custardy. (Baes, 2021)

Furthermore, about 5 billion bananas get thrown away each year unaware

of the minerals it contain (Gunders, 2021). Mineral content in a banana peel is

primarily consistent of potassium (78.10mg/g) and manganese (76.20mg/g). Other

minerals present are sodium, calcium and iron at 24.30, 19.20 and 0.61 mg/g

respectively. The peel’s high potassium content, if taken orally, aids in maintaining

normal blood pressure. About 91.50% of a banana peel is organic nutrient matter

consisting of lipids, proteins, crude fiber and carbohydrates. About 31.70% of total

mass is fiber with carbohydrates accounting for 59% and protein and lipids

accounting for 0.9 and 1.7 percents respectively. The high fiber content is also

useful as a natural laxative. (Martens, 2019)

Meanwhile, the researcher tested its qualities to determine if air-dried

lakatan banana peels can still be an alternative source of making decorative paper.
 10

The results, analyses, and conclusions of Micabanes et al. (2020) and Tizon et al.

(2020) were used by the researcher as the bases in analyzing and interpreting the

gathered data from these tests.

In particular, for the tensile strength, the researcher used the minimum

weight capacity specified by Lucan (2013) as cited by (Carloman et al., 2017;

Micabanes et al., 2020). According to their studies, paper is considered strong if it

can carry a minimum of 600 grams weight, this was the basis of the researcher to

determine whether or not the produced decorative paper is strong. Additionally,

the formula for calculating the moisture retention capacity of the paper was

adapted from Micabanes et al. (2020). Also, the 6-7% standard moisture retention

value set by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 287 as stated

by Tizon et al. (2020), was used to further analyze the results of the test. And lastly,

in analyzing the folding endurance of the produced decorative paper, the results

of the past and present studies were used by the researcher in order to compare

them with the results of this study in terms of folding endurance.

 CHAPTER II

METHODOLOGY

Research Locale and Duration

This study was conducted throughout the entire school year 2020-2021 at

Enguito’s Residence, Purok-2, Mobod, Oroquieta City.

Figure 2: Enguito’s Residence, Purok-2, Mobod, Oroquieta City

Collection of Samples

The Lakatan Bananas were collected at Oroquieta City Public Market. In

accordance with the existing community health standards, the researcher asked

for help from a guardian who was authorized to go outside and gather all necessary

things needed for the study. Other materials that were used in the whole study

were just gathered at Enguito’s Residence, Purok-2, Mobod, Oroquieta City (see

appendix A for the complete list of the materials and equipment used in this study).
 12

Production of Decorative Paper from Banana Peels

The researcher used a method that was adapted from Leigh (2013). After

gathering, peeling, and removing the stems and blossom ends of the bananas,

the peels were cleaned and washed properly to remove dirt, small insects, dust,

and other unnecessary and unwanted residues. These were then prepared for

the next procedure which is the air-drying process.

For the air-drying process, the researcher used a method that was

adapted from Kumar, Nagaraju, Swarajyalakshmi, Latha, and Balakrishna

(2017). The cleaned banana peels were transferred and laid to screens

containing open ventilation on both sides. These were dried for 2 days or 48

hours inside the house. After drying, the banana peels were cut into ½ – inch

bits which were then deposited into a pot of boiling water. Then it was stirred

and simmered for 20 minutes.

While boiling the banana peels, 10 grams of shredded recycled papers

were placed into a blender along with 1 cup of distilled water. The mixture was

blended until reaching the desired consistency and a slurry formed. After boiling

the banana peels, the water was removed and separated from the peels

allowing it to cool down, the researcher weighed 750 grams of the peels. Next,

250 grams of the rehydrated banana peels were added gradually to the paper

slurry that was already in the blender. The mixture was augmented with

sufficient amount of distilled water to help the blending process. The banana

peels and the slurry were then blended together to breakdown the fiber. The

blended banana peels and recycled papers were poured into a tub. And then,
 13

the whole blending process was repeated until all the banana peels were

already utilized.

The researcher then put 500 mL of zonrox into the tub. For the safety of

the researcher, proper wearing of mask and gloves were observed during this

process. And then, it was mixed thoroughly and left for 10 minutes. To make

the starch mixture, the researcher mixed ½ cup of cornstarch together with 1 ½

cup of water. Another 2 cups of water were then boiled, followed by mixing the

starch mixture that was done earlier. This was then boiled until reaching the

desired consistency. The researcher poured 100 grams of the starch mixture

together with sufficient amount of water to the tub and were mixed to serve as

a binder. It was then left for 5 minutes. After that, the researcher held the mold

and deckle firmly then it was dipped into the tub and the researcher scooped

up pulp. Frames were then lifted up to let water drain back into the tub. Next,

these were shook gently to distribute fibers evenly. The deckle was carefully

separated, followed by laying the mold upside down on the table with wet

parchment paper placed on top of it. Excess water was soaked up with sponge

and was pressed against screen surface. (The Papemelroti Guide to Handmade

Paper Making, n.d.)

Drying and Flattening the Produced Paper

The mold was then slowly removed and separated from the paper. The

resulting product was placed in a clean and safe surface and was left for at least

30 minutes to 1 hour followed by exposing it to the heat of the sun to let it dry.

And lastly, after drying the paper, it was separated from the parchment paper
 14

and was flattened by putting a pile of books on top of it and through the use of

clothing iron. Then, the paper produced was prepared for the next procedure

which is the testing of its qualities.

Testing the Quality of the Banana Peel Paper

The method that the researcher used to measure the tensile strength of the

paper was adapted from Lucan (2013) as cited by (Carloman et al., 2017;

Micabanes et al., 2020) on their study entitled “Gabi (Colocasia esculenta taro)

Stem and Leaves as Decorative Paper”. The produced paper was placed on top

of a bowl. Each side was held manually by a family member for the paper to remain

on top of the bowl. The researcher then put coins (new and old one peso coins) on

the paper until the paper reached its tearing point.

The procedure that the researcher used to determine the moisture

retention of the paper was adapted from Trautmann and Richard (1996) as cited

by (Carloman et al., 2017; Micabanes et al., 2020). Using the weighing scale, the

finished product was weighed and transferred to another container. After dropping

5mL of water in the paper, the researcher weighed it again and recorded the

gathered data. After 30 minutes, the researcher weighed it again to observe some

changes. It was repeated three times in order to get the average moisture retention

of the produced paper.

The decorative paper was tested in terms of its folding endurance by folding

it in half, in a forward and backward motion, until it reached its tearing point. This

was repeated three times to get the average folding endurance of the paper. This

method was adapted from Cagas et al. (2015) as cited by Tizon et al. (2020).
 15

Waste Disposal

The area where the researcher conducted the study was cleaned. The tools

and other materials used in the whole process were washed carefully and returned

to where it were originally put. The waste materials were thrown away in the

garbage cans properly.

Data Analysis

The tensile strength of the paper was determined and analyzed based on

the results of the testing. According to Lucan (2013) as cited by (Carloman et al.,

2017; Micabanes et al., 2020), paper is considered strong if it has the capacity to

carry a minimum weight of 600 grams. This served as a basis for determining the

tensile strength of the made product.

The following was the formula that the researcher used to test the moisture

retention of the produced paper which was adapted from the previous study of

Micabanes et al. (2020). The 6-7% standard value set by the ISO was then used

to further analyze the result.

Mn = [(Ww-Wd)/Ww] x 100
Where:
• Mn = moisture retention (%) of the material,
• Ww = wet weight of the sample,
• Wd = weight of the sample after 30 minutes of drying

The folding endurance of the banana peel paper was determined and

analyzed by determining how many times the paper can be folded until it reached

its tearing point. It was then compared to the results of some past and present

studies.
 16

Flow of Experimental Procedure

Figure 3: Flow of Experimental Procedures

Establishing of Sampling Site

Collection of Samples

Production of Decorative Paper from Banana Peels

Testing the Quality of the Paper

Tensile Strength Moisture Retention of Folding Endurance

of the paper the paper of the paper

Waste Disposal

Data Analysis
 CHAPTER III

RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS

This chapter presents the results of the data gathered, its interpretations

and analyses. This study was created with a goal to produce decorative paper from

air-dried peels of Lakatan Banana as an alternative of the commercial decorative

paper.

The presentation is divided into four parts. The first part shows the

determination if air-dried lakatan banana peels can still be an alternative source of

making decorative paper. The second part is the determination of tensile strength.

The third part is the determination of moisture retention capacity. And lastly, the

fourth part shows the result for the determination of folding endurance of the paper.

Air-drying method was used in order to determine if air-dried Lakatan

Banana Peels can still be an alternative source of making decorative paper aside

from the other methods. In some real-life situations, banana peels may not be

utilized directly for papermaking. Just leaving the peels for some time causes them

to have a similar appearance or result to the peels that have undergone the air-

drying process. Through this study, the researcher had successfully produced

decorative paper out of air-dried banana peels. That means, air-dried peels can

still be used as an alternative source of making decorative paper aside from

soaked and ripe banana peels. The next parts of the presentation describe and

further explain the possibility of air-dried lakatan banana peels for making

decorative paper in terms of the produced paper’s qualities.

 18

Tensile strength is the maximum load that a material can support without

fracture when being stretched (The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica, 2020).

The method that the researcher used was adapted in the study entitled “Gabi

(Colocasia esculenta taro) Stem and Leaves as Decorative Paper”. Table 1 shows

how much weight the handmade decorative paper can carry before any part of it

tore apart.

Table 1: Tensile strength of the air-dried Lakatan Banana Peel Paper

Number of 1 Peso Coins Weight (Grams) Remarks
1 (New Coins) 6 Retain
20 119.42 Retain
40 238.86 Retain
60 358.26 Retain
80 477.49 Retain
100 596.94 Retain
120 716.57 Retain
140 836.11 Retain
160 955.7 Retain
180 1075.63 Retain
200 1195.54 Retain
220 1314.8 Retain
240 1434.22 Retain
260 1553.71 Retain
280 1673.05 Retain
300 1792.62 Retain
320 1912.27 Retain
345 2061.5 Retain
365 (Old Coins) 2170.11 Retain
385 2279.54 Retain
405 2390.27 Retain
425 2499.29 Retain
439 2567.97 Retain
440 2573.93 Torn

This result implies that the handmade decorative paper has the capacity to

hold 439 pieces of 1-peso coins or 2567.97 grams, before any part of the paper

tore apart. Any weight above that would result to the paper tearing apart. According
 19

to Lucan (2013) as cited by (Carloman et al., 2017; Micabanes et al., 2020), paper

is considered strong if it has the capacity to carry a minimum weight of 600 grams.

Hence, the air-dried lakatan banana peel paper, which exceeded the minimum

weight capacity, has a good and strong tensile strength. The produced paper is

also much stronger than the paper made out of Gabi stem and leaves by

Micabanes et al. (2020), the soaked lakatan banana peel paper of Hisula (2021),

and the ripe lakatan banana peel paper of Inducal (2021), which can only hold up

to 1140 grams, 1748.76 grams, and 1733.69 grams of coins respectively.

Moisture retention capacity refers to the amount of water that a particular

thing can hold (Oxford Reference, 2021). Table 2 shows the weight of the paper

before and after dropping 5ml of water, and after leaving it for 30 minutes, which

reveals the moisture retention capacity of the handmade decorative paper out of

air-dried Lakatan Banana peels.

Table 2: Moisture Retention Capacity of the air-dried Lakatan Banana Peel Paper
Weight after Weight after 30
Initial Weight
Trial dropping 5ml of minutes
(Grams)
water (Grams) (Grams)
1 2.02 5.72 5.70
2 1.98 4.75 4.22
3 2.96 6.44 5.58
Mean 2.32 5.64 5.17

Figure 4: Calculation for the Moisture Retention Capacity of the Produced Paper

Mn = [(Ww-Wd)/Ww] x 100
Mn = [(5.64-5.17)/5.64] x 100
Mn = [0.47/5.64] x 100
Mn = 0.083333 x 100
Mn = 8.333333333

Mn = 8.33%
 20

The testing of the handmade decorative paper out of air-dried Lakatan

Banana peels showed that it has 8.33% moisture retention capacity. This implies

that the moisture retention (in percentage) of the handmade decorative paper has

exceeded the 6-7% quality standard of the commercial decorative paper based on

ISO 287 as stated by Tizon et al. (2020).

Folding endurance measures the durability of paper when repeatedly folded

under constant load; determining how many times the paper can be folded until it

breaks (Smithers, n.d.). Table 3 represents how many times the air-dried Lakatan

Banana Peel decorative paper can be folded.

Table 3: Folding endurance of the air-dried Lakatan Banana Peel Paper

Trial Number of Folds Description
1 558 Folding capacity
2 379 Folding capacity
3 602 Folding capacity
Mean 513

The table shows that the air-dried Lakatan Banana Peel decorative paper

can withstand an average of 513 folds, which can be folded 558, 379, and 602

times based on the trials until it reaches its tearing point. Therefore, the paper has

a strong folding endurance. The produced paper also has a much higher folding

endurance compared to the paper of Micabanes et al. (2020), which can only hold

within the range of 333-527 folds, and the soaked lakatan banana peel paper of

Hisula (2021), which can only hold an average of 369.7 folds.

 CHAPTER IV

SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS, AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Summary

This research study aimed to determine if air-dried lakatan banana peels

can still be an alternative source of making an environmentally friendly handmade

decorative paper. For the air-drying process, the researcher used a method that

was adapted from Kumar et al. (2017).

Through this study, the researcher had successfully produced handmade

decorative paper out of air-dried banana peels. That means, banana peels that

have undergone the air-drying process can still be used as an alternative source

of making decorative paper aside from soaked and ripe banana peels.

In addition, to support this, the study also aimed to determine the quality of

the produced paper in terms of its tensile strength, moisture retention capacity, and

folding endurance. First, through an experimental method adapted from Lucan

(2013) as cited by (Carloman et al., 2017; Micabanes et al., 2020), the testing

implied that the handmade decorative paper has the ability to hold 439 pieces of

1-peso coins or 2567.97 grams, before any part of the paper tore apart. Any weight

greater than that would result to the paper tearing apart.

Second, the method of Trautmann and Richard (1996) as cited by

(Carloman et al., 2017; Micabanes et al., 2020) was used in order to determine the

moisture retention capacity of the decorative paper. The result showed that it has
 22

8.33% moisture retention capacity which means that it has exceeded the 6-7%

quality standard set by the International Organization for Standardization.

And lastly, another experimental method was adapted from Cagas et al.

(2015) as cited by Tizon et al. (2020) to test the folding endurance of the produced

paper. The outcome demonstrated that the decorative paper has a strong folding

endurance and can withstand an average of 513 folds.

Conclusion

Based on the findings, the following were concluded in the study:

1. Air-dried Lakatan Banana Peels can still be an alternative source of

making decorative paper.

2. The produced handmade decorative paper can hold 2567.97 grams of

coins which means that the paper is strong. Air-dried banana peel paper

is also much stronger compared to gabi stem and leaves paper of

Micabanes et al. (2020), which can only hold up to 1140 grams of coins,

the soaked lakatan banana peel paper of Hisula (2021), which can only

hold up to 1748.76 grams of coins, and the ripe lakatan banana peel

paper of Inducal (2021), which can only hold up to 1733.69 grams of

coins.

3. The study further showed that the produced handmade decorative paper

out of air-dried lakatan banana peels has 8.33% moisture retention

capacity, which means that it has exceeded the quality standard value

for moisture retention capacity based on ISO and implies that the paper

has a good fibrillation.

 23

4. The paper has a strong folding endurance that it can withstand an

average of 513 folds, which can be folded 558, 379, and 602 times

based on the trials. The produced paper has also a much higher folding

endurance compared to the paper of Micabanes et al. (2020), which can

only hold an average of 438 folds, and the soaked lakatan banana peel

paper of Hisula (2021), which only has an average of 369.7 folds.

Recommendations:

In relation to the results and findings of the present study, the researcher would

like to recommend the following:

1. Beautify the paper by adding some colors and designs which could be

used as designing papers for any uses such as school projects and

works.

2. If the aim is a brighter color for the paper, improve the bleaching

process.

3. Improve the smell of the produced paper.

4. Use sodium hydroxide or other chemicals such as magnesium

hydroxide to help breaking down other substances from the banana

peels.

5. Use industrial machines to enhance the fineness of the paper, its

texture, and other qualities, hence, raising its potential as writing paper.
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

This research has been time consuming and a long journey for the

researcher. A lot of efforts were put to make this research study possible and the

researcher’s patience was tested during the process of making this study. A lot of

people have been part and played a big role in making this study happen. Thus,

the researcher would like to spread his warm thanks and appreciation to these

people.

First and foremost, to our Almighty Father that gave him enough

knowledge, strength, and wisdom throughout this long journey.

To the family of the researcher who had been financially, physically, and

emotionally supportive throughout the journey of making the study. They were also

the one who guided the researcher and provided him the materials that he needed.

To our dearest research adviser, Mrs. Rea Malou C. Saren who helped

him in anyways she can to make this research successful, and for the counsel and

time spent in proofreading this paper.

To the rest of the wonderful individuals who are not mentioned but took

part in the success of this paper.

The researcher extends his deepest gratitude to everyone who took part in

the completion of this study.

– Researcher –
RESEARCHER’S PROFILE

Name: John Lloyd B. Enguito

Birth Date: February 8, 2006

Age: 15 years old

Address: Purok – 2, Mobod, Oroquieta City

Interests: Watching movies and videos, Music

Contact Number: 09509714966

Email Address: johnlloydenguito8@gmail.com

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 APPENDICES

Appendix A: List of Materials and Equipment

MATERIALS EQUIPMENT
Knife and Scissors

Aluminum Screens

Stove and Pot

Blender

Spoon

Weighing Scale

Tub
750 grams of Lakatan Banana
Mask and Gloves
Water (Distilled)
Measuring Cup
Recycled Papers
Mold and Deckle
Zonrox (500 mL)
Parchment Paper
Cornstarch (1/2 cup)
Sponge

Pile of books

Clothing iron

Bowl

New and old one – peso coins

Dropper

Timer

Table A1: Complete list of the Materials and Equipment used in the Study
 Appendix B: Research Laboratory Logbook

Figure B1: Logbook Front Page Figure B2: Table of Contents

Figure B3: List of Tables Figure B4: Experimental Proposal

Figure B5: Experimental Proposal Figure B6: Experimental Proposal

Figure B7: Experimental Proposal Figure B8: Experimental Proposal

Figure B9: Experimental Proposal Figure B10: Experimental Proposal

Figure B11: Experimental Proposal Figure B12: Record of Procedures

Figure B13: Record of Procedures Figure B14: Record of Procedures

Figure B15: Record of Procedures Figure B16: Record of Correspondence

Figure B17: Record of Correspondence Figure B18: Record of Correspondence

Figure B19: Record of Correspondence Figure B20: Record of Correspondence

Figure B21: Record of Procedures Figure B22: Data Tables

Figure B23: Data Tables Figure B24: Statistical Analysis

Figure B25: Statistical Analysis Figure B26: Statistical Analysis

Figure B27: Statistical Analysis Figure B28: Conclusions

 Appendix C: Documentation

March 2, 2021 – Day 1 of Experimentation

Figure C1: Collection of Lakatan Bananas – Oroquieta City Public Market

(Graceland Farm)

Figure C2: Peeling of the Lakatan Bananas

Figure C3: Removing of stems and blossom ends of the banana peels
Figure C4: Washing/cleaning of the banana peels

Figure C5: Air – drying the Banana Peels

March 3, 2021 – Day 2 of Experimentation

Figure C6: Banana Peels after 1 day of Air – drying

 March 4, 2021 – Day 3 of Experimentation

Figure C7: Banana Peels after 2 days of Air – drying

Figure C8: Cutting the air – dried banana peels

Figure C9: Boiling the Banana Peels

Figure C10: Blending 10 grams scratch papers with 1 cup of distilled water

Figure C11: Blending 250 grams of banana peels with the paper slurry

Figure C12: Bleaching the pulp (Adding 500mL of zonrox)

Figure C13: Preparation and adding of the starch mixture to the pulp

Figure C14: Paper molding using the mold and deckle

Figure C15: Sun – drying the produced banana peel paper

 March 5, 2021 – Day 4 of Experimentation

Figure C16: Removing/separating the produced paper from the parchment paper

Figure C17: Flattening the produced decorative paper

March 8, 2021 – Day 7 of Experimentation

Figure C18: Testing the Folding Endurance of the produced banana peel
decorative paper
Figure C19: Testing the Moisture Retention Capacity of the produced banana peel
decorative paper

March 9, 2021 – Day 8 of Experimentation

Figure C20: Testing the Tensile Strength of the produced banana peel decorative
paper