Karlang (Xanthosoma sagittifolium) and Gabi (Colocasia esculenta) stem as an

Alternative Material for Making Paper Bags

GROUP 2 STEM 12A- PYTHAGORAS

Moratilla, Eduard Lian Emerson

Palacio, Ma. Bernadeth

Bantillo, Chris Gerard

Semblante, Mj Coline

Jimenez, Joriedyne

Butlig, Jessa Mae

Tumalon, Jovany

Luad, Edralyn

Ferrer, Kyle
 INTRODUCTION

Among the different pollutants that are discarded in the environment, plastics are

considered as one of the main ones (Walker, 2023). Plastics are composed of multiple

chemical components and, even though they have numerous useful applications, they take a

significant amount of time to break down (Rajmohan, 2019). Single-use plastics are

widespread in the Philippines because they are cheap, durable, and convenient. Companies

use sachets to reach low-income families who cannot afford to buy in bulk (Alegado, 2020).

Due to slow rate of degradation and inappropriate disposal mechanism there is gradual

accumulation of global mismanaged plastic waste in the environment. In this context,

researchers become interested in exploring alternative materials for making paper bags that

are more sustainable and eco-friendlier. The researchers turn their attention to gabi and

karlang to demonstrate the potential of these crops as viable alternative to commercial paper

bags made from wood pulp and to provide valuable information for promoting sustainable

development.

Gabi is scientifically known as Colocasia esculenta and is characterized by its heart-

shaped leaves and tuberous rootstock. It has fibrous stems that could be used for papermaking.

It can grow anywhere- or at least, cultivars are available for a wide range of tropical growing

conditions (Berto, 2022). Karlang also known as Xanthosoma sagittifolium, resembles taro or

gabi but is taller and more robust, with tiny cormels harvested for food (Laking, 2022). Both

plants have fibrous stems that can potentially be used for papermaking, making them

alternative sources of fiber for producing paper bags. With their potential as a sustainable and

locally sourced material, exploring the use of gabi and karlang fibers for paper bags can

contribute to the country's efforts in promoting eco-friendly alternatives.

 A study by Barlis (2018) investigated the potential of paper made from Giant taro

(Alocasia macrorrhiza) stem fibers entitled “Giant Taro (Alocasia macrorrhiza) Paper

Production as a Response to the Deforestation Issue in the Philippines. As confirmed by an

experimental study on the strength, durability, ink receptivity, and water absorbency rate of

homemade taro paper. Considering that Karlang (Xanthosoma sagittifolium) is of the same

species as Alocasia macrorrhiza, it is probable that the result will be the same (considering

the amounts/measurements adapted for its size reduction). Tensile test results indicated that

the Taro paper can hold weights ranging from 5g-85g, while ink receptivity test results

showed that 78% of the trials produced consistent print quality, 100% had no ink blots, and

94% showed quality ink absorption.

In the study entitled "Gabi (Colocasia esculenta taro) Stem and Leaves as Decorative

Paper," (Micabanes et al., 2020) aimed to create decorative paper using Gabi stem and leaves.

The Gabi stems and leaves were cut into pieces and were washed properly, the stems were

boiled and blended together with the leaves. It was then poured into a basin with glue and

water and was transferred into the mesh screen to let it dry. It was found out that the greater

the amount of stem and leaves used, the more Gabi Decorative Paper produced. The

researchers conducted various tests to evaluate the quality of the paper, including its moisture

retention, tensile strength, and folding endurance. It was found to be able to hold up to 1140

grams of coins and had 8% moisture retention. The average folds of the paper were 438

which means that it has strong folding capacity compared to the cogon grass spikelet paper of

(Tizon et al., 2019).

According to the study entitled “Production of Paper out of Taro (Colocasia

esculenta) Leaves” (Penequito et al., 2019), the researchers produced an alternative source of

paper out of Taro (Colocasia esculenta). Based on the procedure, the researchers started by

preparing the the Taro, cut into stamp-sized pieces, and were soaked in the water for 30
minutes. Pour the leaves into a basin and rinse them off with water. Blend the leaves using a

blender to turn them into a pulp. Fill the basin halfway with water and add the pulp to it.

Immerse the frame in the mixture, then lift the screen from the basin. Then, remove excess

water from the paper using a sponge or damp cloth. Gently peel the paper off the screen and

let it dry either by ironing or under the sun. Following the discussion of the results and

conclusions, it was determined that treatment 3 or 100% is superior in terms of the paper's

tensile strength, absorbency, and texture. And it was found out that there is a significant

difference between the concentration of Taro (Colocasia esculenta) leaf in developing a

paper.

The key objectives of using gabi and karlang fibers for paper bag production in this

study encompass two main goals. The researchers aim to assess the suitability of karlang and

gabi fibers for paper bag production. Moreover, the researchers intend to evaluate the paper

bags based on these key parameters, including tensile strength, load capacity and water

resistance. Through this study, it is hoped that a more sustainable and eco-friendly option for

paper bag production can be identified, leading to a more environmentally conscious

packaging industry.

The study on using gabi and karlang fibers for paper bag production is a timely and

important research topic that could generate a positive impact on the community and the

environment. This study could also help raise awareness about the importance of sustainable

and eco-friendly packaging solutions among the public, leading to a shift in consumer

behavior and preferences (Wani et al., 2021). By promoting the use of gabi and karlang fibers

for paper bag production, the study could also help preserve the cultural heritage and

traditional knowledge associated with these underutilized crops. Also, a proper consideration

of the environmental, social, and economic impacts of gabi and karlang fiber is important for

ensuring its sustainability and success. The study could inspire further research and
innovation in the field of sustainable materials and packaging, leading to the development of

new and improved products that are more environmentally friendly and socially responsible

(Patwa et al., 2020).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The entire experiment consisted of three phases. Phase 1 involved collecting and

preparing materials and treatments, phase 2 involved conducting the actual experiment and

phase 3 involved gathering and analyzing the data.

Phase I: Collection and Preparation of Materials and Treatments

Collection and Preparation of Okra

The okra was purchased at Kapalong Public Market, Kapalong, Davao del Norte.

These were washed with water then chopped into smaller pieces.

Figure 1. Okra

Preparation of treatments
Treatment 0 – Commercial Paper bag

The commercial paper bag was purchased by the researcher from the public market at

Kapalong, Davao del Norte.

 Figure 2. Commercial Paper Bag

Treatment 1 – Karlang (Xanthosoma sagittifolium)

Karlang (Xanthosoma sagittifolium) were taken in some areas in Prk. 6A Airstrip,

Magatos, Asuncion Davao del Norte. The researchers initiated the preparation by utilizing 10

kg of Gabi to be used in the entire experiment. The Karlang stem were washed carefully to

remove dirt, then proceeded to cut them into small pieces and labeled as Treatment 1.

Figure 3. Karlang Figure 4. Sliced Karlang stem

Treatment 2 – Gabi (Colocasia esculenta) stem as an alternative source of paper bag

Gabi (Colocasia esculenta) were taken in some areas that are rich in muddy soils that

are located at Prk. 6 Bunawan, Semong, Kapalong Davao del Norte. The researchers initiated

the preparation by utilizing 10 kg of Gabi. The Gabi stem were washed carefully to remove

dirt, then proceeded to cut them into small pieces and labeled as Treatment 2.
 Figure 5. Gabi Figure 6. Sliced Gabi stem

Gabi (Colocasia Karlang (Xanthosoma Cutting of

esculenta) sagittifolium) Gabi/Karlang

Pour 500g (Karlang/Gabi Blend until they formed

fiber) into a large basin or a smooth and uniform
tub with 1 liter of boiled paste
okra binding agent

Boiled for approximately

10 to 15 minutes

Strained it with a flat

Leave the paper to dry in the Cut it into the desired size
tray or container and
sun for 1-2 days/ air dry for and shape of the paper bag
spread it out.
2-3 days
 Product Use a glue stick or tape Fold it along the edges
to hold it in place to create a seam

Figure 7. The process of making the Gabi/Karlang Paper Bags

Phase II: Experimentation

There were three different treatments used, each with three replicates. Treatment 0

involved using a commercial paper bag, which served as the standard reference for

comparison. Treatment 1. In Treatment 1, 500 grams of Karlang stem fibers were used in

every paper bag to make. This was then placed in a large basin or tub containing 8 liters of

water with 1 liter of boiled okra agent. A large strainer was used to drain the water from the

mixture, and it was subsequently labeled as Treatment 1. In Treatment 2, 500 grams of Gabi

stem fibers were used in every paper bag to make. This was then placed in a large basin or

tub containing 8 liters of water with 1 liter of boiled okra agent. A large strainer was used to

drain the water from the mixture, and it was subsequently labeled as Treatment 2.

Figure 8. Commercial Figure 9. Karlang Figure 10. Gabi

Waste Disposal Procedure

 The procedure for managing waste involves the understanding that Gabi (Colocasia

escalanta) and Karlang (Xanthosoma sagittifolium) are both biodegradable materials that will

be decompose within a few weeks. Once used, these items will be discarded in the school's

compost pit.

Phase III: Data Collection and Analysis

Data Analysis

To analyze the quantitative data collected during the tests, the indicators that the

researchers used in Karlang and Gabi stem fiber into paper are the following: The load

capacity that tests the maximum weight that a paper bag can hold without breaking or tearing.

Tensile strength will test on how the ability of materials to increase its linear length under the

action of external mechanical force. The water resistance test for paper bag is a procedure

used to evaluate the paper's ability to resist the exposure to water. These indicators were

applied each treatment. The analysis of these indicators plays a crucial role in evaluating the

suitability of karlang and gabi stem fiber for paper bag production, providing insights into the

strength, durability, and performance of the resulting paper bags in real-world usage

scenarios.

Research Design

This study used a Complete Randomized Design (CRD) with two (2) treatments and

three (3) replicates for each of the indicators. This research was carried out at the Science
Laboratory of Kapalong National High School in Maniki, Kapalong Davao del Norte

September 18, 2023 – December 18, 2023.

RESULTS
 RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Table 1: The mean average of Load Capacity, Water Resistance, and Tensile Strength

Treatments

Mean amount of Load Capacity, Water Resistance, and Tensile Strength

The table shows the mean amount of the load capacity, water resistance, and tensile strength

of the commercial, Karlang, and Gabi paper bags. The table presented that all treatments used

in the study composed the characteristics of having the possibility of making paper bags. In

terms of load capacity, the Karlang paper bag has the highest value compared to the other

treatments which are average values. This means that the Karlang paper bags can hold more

weight. Gabi paper bag has the highest value of water resistance which is far more away to
commercial paper bags. Compared to Karlang paper bags which are close to the value of the

Gabi paper bag. This means that the Gabi paper bag can resist water by not allowing the

water to pass easily compared to other treatments. When it comes to tensile strength the value

of the commercial paper bag has the highest value of tensile strength. Therefore between the

two treatments Karlang paper bag is the closest value which means that the Karlang paper

bag is comparable to the commercial paper bag compared to the Gabi paper bag.