CHAPTER II

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

Related Literature

Ensuring the effectiveness of thermal insulation materials requires specific

physical properties, including low thermal conductivity, moisture protection, and

resistance to mold and fire (Papadopoulos, A.M., 2005). Recognizing the

negative environmental and health impacts associated with prevalent insulation

materials throughout their lifecycle, there is a growing imperative to explore

alternative options (Moh’d Yakama et al., 2011).

Inorganic insulating materials, as highlighted by Liang and Ho (2007),

have been linked to potential harm to both human health and the environment.

The production process often entails high energy consumption, and their disposal

poses significant environmental hazards (Panyakaew and Fotios, 2008).

Commonly used inorganic thermal insulators, such as fiberglass, rock wool, and

mineral wool, are known for their adverse environmental effects. Fiberglass and

glass wool insulation, for example, can release small particles that pose health

risks, including respiratory and skin irritation (OSHA, 2003). Furthermore, thermal

insulation products containing formaldehyde resin have been associated with the

development of asthma (US EPA, 2000), and cellulose insulation treated with

toxic fire-retarding chemicals, like boric acid, has been identified as having

potential health effects (OSHA, 1999).

 An innovative and environmentally friendly paradigm in material

development for green building applications is gaining global traction (Guna et

al., 2019; Liuzzi et al., 2017; Sassoni et al., 2014). This burgeoning interest

focuses on the creation of sustainable thermal insulation materials derived from

renewable resources and industrial wastes (El Hage et al., 2019; Liu et al., 2017;

Mija et al., 2017). Composites sourced from natural resources show promise due

to their low density, minimal environmental impact, and favorable thermal

properties (Eschenhagen et al., 2019; Guna et al., 2019; Muthuraj et al., 2018a,

b, c; Zach et al., 2013).

By-products from staple crops, such as rice and wheat husks, hold

potential for the development of sustainable building materials, given their

advantageous characteristics (Buratti et al., 2018; Hýsek et al., 2018; Palumbo et

al., 2015). Additionally, wood fibers, as renewable materials, are widely

embraced for their excellent mechanical properties and cost-effectiveness (La

Mantia and Morreale, 2011). Responding to sustainability demands, there is a

rising trend in the recovery and recycling of industrial wastes, particularly textile

waste. The recycling of textile fibers, including cotton waste, presents a viable

avenue for producing building panels with commendable thermal and acoustic

properties (Asdrubali et al., 2015; Binici et al., 2014, 2012, 2010; El Hage et al.,

2019; Hassanin et al., 2016; Ingrao et al., 2014; Lacoste et al., 2018)."
Related Study

"Canto et al. (2018), established that thermal insulators are often

expensive and not environmentally friendly, motivating the objective of creating a

thermal insulator from the organic residues of rice husks. Given the substantial

annual rice production in Panama, resulting in significant organic waste in

landfills, the researchers aimed to develop a compound that reduces the volatility

of rice husk material without compromising its thermal conductivity. The key

requirement was that the compound should be flexible and resistant even after

drying. In the insulator's development, mixed organic compounds, such as pita

palm and cassava starch, were utilized, and various laboratory tests were

conducted.

In a study conducted by Gutiérrez et al. (2014), starches were employed

with rice husk to create a material with adequate physical stability without

compromising its insulating capacity. The researchers developed a process that

integrated saccharomyces cerevisiae, brewer's yeast, as an element that

produced porosities in the samples. They subsequently conducted tests to

evaluate the mechanical and physical properties of the natural insulator, including

thermal conductivity, following the guidelines of the ASTM C177 standard

procedure. The results indicated that the agglomerate did not produce a flame

when exposed to direct fire (fireproof) and exhibited a resistance of between 80

and 120 kPa when subjected to temperatures of 150 to 200 °C. The thermal
conductivity of the agglomerate was approximately 0.09 W/m K. This led to the

conclusion that rice-husk-based agglomerates serve as efficient thermal

insulators for industrial applications, where the chemical stability was analyzed

according to its fungal resistance and its high biodegradability when dissolved in

the water; this allowed them to conclude that rice-husk-based agglomerates are

efficient thermal insulators for industrial applications.

In summary, the studies by Canto et al. (2018) and Gutiérrez et al. (2014)

demonstrate the viability of utilizing rice hulls in the development of thermal

insulation materials, addressing both environmental concerns and the need for

cost-effective alternatives in the field. The comprehensive characterization using

advanced techniques further supports the potential application of rice hull-based

materials in sustainable building practices.

 CHAPTER III

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODOLOGY

Research Design

The methods of the research that the researchers will use is classified

under experimental research. The researcher wanted to measure the if the rice

hull and terracotta clay can reduce the production of Styrofoam in making ice

cooler.

Materials

In this study, the researchers will use the following materials to

make the ice cooler with the rice hull and terracotta clay mixture: Terracotta clay,

rice hulls, water, mixing bowl, sculpting tools, and plastic sheet or mold.

Procedure

A. Gathering of Materials

The researchers gathered the materials needed such as terracotta

clay, rice hulls, water, mixing bowl, shovel, sculpting tools, and plastic sheet or

mold. In the mixing bowl, combine the terracotta clay and rice hulls.
B. Measuring

The researchers will measure the essential materials for making ice

cooler. The rice hulls will act as insulating material, helping to regulate the

temperature inside the storage unit. The researchers start with the ratio of about

70% terracotta clay to 30% rice hulls. Adjust the ratio based on the availability of

materials and desired insulation properties. All the materials will be measured

through weighing scale.

C. Mixing

The given amount of terracotta clay, rice hull, and water will be mixed

using a shovel. The researcher intends to make a 28 cm (length) x 18cm (width)

x 20cm (height) x 2 in or 5.08cm (thickness) ice cooler. The researcher proposes

a three (3) samples of ice cooler. First sample consist of 70% of rice hull and

30% of terracotta clay, the second sample consist of 60% of rice hull and 40% of

terracotta clay and the third sample consist of 50% rice hull and 50% terracotta

clay.

C. Molding and Solidifying of Ice Cooler

Using sculpting tools, the researchers shape the clay mixture into the

desired form of the ice cooler. The researchers smoothening the surface of the

clay and refine the shape of the storage. Expose the clay structure to air-dry for a

few days. This drying period is essential for the clay to set and harden. Bake the

clay in a kiln to further strengthen the structure. Firing will also enhance the

insulation properties of the clay. Line the interior of the storage unit with a plastic
sheet or mold to create a barrier between the clay and the contents. This will help

prevent moisture from reaching the stored items. Once the ice cooler is

completely dry and ready, the researchers test the effectiveness by placing items

inside and monitoring the temperature over time.

Testing

The researchers create three samples of thermochest with different

percentage of materials: Rice hull and terracotta Clay. The first sample consist of

70% of rice hull and 30% of terracotta clay, the second sample consist of 60% of

rice hull and 40% of terracotta clay and the third sample consist of 50% rice hull

and 50% terracotta clay. For the test of effectiveness, the researchers will test

how long the isolation of each sample by putting each a block of ice and

measuring how long they can keep it in its state.

Affordability test

To determine the product’s affordability, the researchers will calculate the

total cost thermochest is more affordable than commercially available

thermochest since it is primarily made from rice hull and terracotta clay, which

are readily available and free our community. Furthermore, you can create a rice

hull thermochest at home, unlike commercially available thermochest that you

must locate and purchase from the market.

Durability test

To ensure the product’s resilience and ability to withstand exposure to

flames, the researchers will conduct a comprehensive fire resistance test. This

accurate evaluation will involve subjecting the product to controlled flames of

varying intensities and durations. Throughout the testing process, the

researchers will monitor the product’s structural integrity, material composition,

and overall performance under extreme heat conditions. By carefully analyzing

the test results, the researchers will gain valuable insights into the product’s fire

resistance capabilities and identify any areas for potential improvement. This

approach will ultimately contribute to the development of a durable and fire-

resistant product that meets the highest safety standards.

Thermochest with rice hull insulation is a reliable way to keep the

temperature of an object inside stable. Rice hull insulation is important because it

has an excellent ability to insulate, preventing heat from escaping. The

combination of smart design and the natural thermal properties of rice hulls

makes this solution practical and environmentally friendly for keeping the

temperature of items stable.

Trial 70% of rice hull of 60% of rice hull 50% rice hull and

and 30% of and 40% of 50% terracotta

terracotta clay terracotta clay clay.

1
 2

Figure 1. Durability of Ice Cooler

Trial The Output Commercially Available

Ice Cooler

Figure 2. Comparison of Durability

Data Analysis

For the recording of data, tables will be used by the researchers to clearly

showcase and explain the results. This approach will display information

regarding the effectiveness, durability, and affordability of varying proportions of

rice hull and terracotta clay as components in making an Ice Cooler. Additionally,

the presented table will highlight distinctions between the produced Ice Cooler

and those commercially available.