ISOLATING HYDROPHOBICITY POTENTIAL OF Jatropha podagrica

(BUDDHA BELLY) LEAF: DEVELOPMENT OF BIOWAX AS WATER

REPELLANT COATING FOR LEATHER-BASED PRODUCTS

A Research

Presented to
Calbayog City National High School
Calbayog City

In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements

For Basic Education Curriculum, Senior High School Program

Abaigar, Jessa Gabing, Janniel Rose

Algordo, Demarco Sagala, Nico
Arriesgado, Rainne Salomon, Jeff
Cortado, Klyde Joseph Tarrayo, Samuel

March 2020
 ` Republic of the Philippines
Department of Education
Region VIII – Eastern Visayas
Schools Division of Calbayog City
CALBAYOG CITY NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL
SCHOOL ID: 313801
P2 Bgy.Hamorawon, Calbayog City, Western Samar 6710 .Tel Nos. PLDT-(055) 209-1535
Email: calbayogcitynhs@yahoo.com, calbayogcitynhs@gmail.com

APPROVAL SHEET
This research titled: “Isolating Hydrophobicity Potentials of Jatropha
podagrica (Buddha Belly) Leaf: Development of Biowax as Water Repellant coating
for leather-based products,” prepared and submitted by Jessa Abaigar, Demarco
Algordo, Rainne Arriesgado, Klyde Cortado, Janniel Gabing, Nico Sagala, Jeff
Salomon, and Samuel Tarrayo in partial fulfillment for the completion of the Basic
Education Curriculum, Senior High School Program, Science, Technology, Engineering,
Mathematics (STEM) strand has been examined and is recommended for ACCEPTANCE
and APPROVAL.
CALICK D. ARRIETA, Ph.D.
Chairman

ENGR. LAZARO R. BINAY JR. ENGR. FRANCIS P. DIOCTON

Member Member

ELIZABETH B. LUMOD ETHELYN J. ORTEGA

Member Member

ROBERT ANTHONY F. YGRUBAY

Research Teacher/Research Adviser

PANEL OF EXAMINERS
Approved by the committee on oral examination with the grade of ______.

ENGR. LAZARO R. BINAY JR. ENGR. FRANCIS P. DIOCTON

Member Member

ELIZABETH B. LUMOD ETHELYN J. ORTEGA

Member Member

ROBERT ANTHONY F. YGRUBAY

Research Teacher

CALICK D. ARRIETA, Ph.D.

Chairman

Accepted and approved in partial fulfillment of the requirements for Basic

Education Curriculum, Senior High School Program, Science, Technology, Engineering,
Mathematics strand.

CALICK D. ARRIETA, Ph. D.

School Principal III

ii
 Acknowledgement

This research includes maximum effort and crucial tasks during the whole

duration of the study and this will not be made possible without the help of various

individuals. The researchers would like to show their appreciation and sincere

gratitude to the following person who contributed to the completion of the study:

To Dr. Calick D. Arrieta, the school principal, for his continuous support

which helped the researchers in completing their paper.

To Mrs. Elizabeth B. Lumod, Research adviser, for guiding the

researchers all throughout the study and sharing his knowledge in doing research,

finishing the manuscript and for giving proficient advice in the completion of the

study.

To Mr. Brinell C. Valenciano, for supervising us during the experimentation

and sharing us his expertise when it comes to laboratory chemicals, techniques

and laboratory safety in where the researchers followed for safety precaution.

To Mrs. Karina Milagros R. Cui-Lim, RCh, PhD, Dean College of Science

in the University of Eastern Philippines, for letting the researchers purchase the

chemical which is necessary for wax extraction.

To Ms. Rosa Jean T. Gonzaga, research statistician for guiding the

researchers the proper statistical treatment to be utilized in the study.

To Mr. Regean Doropan, for read-through the whole manuscript and

making significant corrections towards the proper usage of words and grammar

used.

iii
 To Mr. Robert Anthony F. Ygrubay, for overlooking and checking the

research paper and for her guidance in finishing the study.

To the Panel of Evaluators, for scrutinizing and giving important inputs for

the betterment of the study

To the researchers’ parents, for their holistic and non-stop support, for

inspiring the researchers to continue the study and for financial aid.

And above all, we give thanks to our Almighty God, for his spiritual

guidance and wisdom to be able to complete this research study.

iv
 Table of Contents

Contents Page

Cover Page i

Approval Sheet ii

Acknowledgement iii

Table of Contents v

List of Tables vii

List of Figures viii

List of Appendices x

Abstract xi

Chapter

1 The Problem and Its Setting

Introduction 1

Theoretical Framework 3

Conceptual Framework 4

Statement of the Problem 6

Statement of Hypothesis 6

Scope and Limitation 7

Significance of the Study 7

Definition of Terms 8

v
2 Review of Related Literature and Studies 9

3 Methodology

Research Design 12

Research Environment 13

Research Instrumentation 13

Data Gathering Procedure 14

Schematic Diagram 19

Statistical Treatment 21

4 Presentation, Analysis, and Interpretation of Data 22

5 Summary of Findings, Conclusions and Recommendations

Summary of Findings 27

Conclusions 28

Recommendations 28

References 29

Appendices 31

vi
 List of Tables

Table Page

1 Average weight of wax per gram 24

2 Characteristics of the biowax extracted 25

from the Buddha Belly Leaf

3 Comparative table of the contact angle from 26

the experimental and controlled set-up

4 Wettability of the Surface 27

5 Maximum temperature before 28

disintegration of biowax

vii
 List of Figures

Figure Page

1 Conceptual Framework 6

2 Preparing all the materials 22

3 Cutting the leaves into fragments 22

4 Weighing the leaf fragments 22

5 Preparing the samples 22

6 Measuring Chloroform 22

7 Mixing the solvent and leaf samples 22

8 Immersing the leaves using glass rod 22

9 Removing leaf after 3 minutes of immersing 22

10 Evaporation of wax for 1 hour 23

11 Weighing the leaf with chloroform treatment 23

12 Adding 3ml of chloroform to the extracted wax 23

13 Concentrated wax for leather coating 23

14 Preparation of setups 23

15 Getting the contact Angle 23

16 Testing the wettability of the surface 23

viii
17 Maximum Temperature of wax before Disintegration 23

18 Trial 1 Wax-Coated Leather 25

19 Trial 2 Wax-Coated Leather 25

20 Trial 3 Wax-Coated Leather 25

21 Trial 1 Non-Coated Leather 25

22 Trial 2 Non-Coated Leather 25

23 Trial 3 Non-Coated Leather 25

ix
 Appendices

Appendix Page

A Research Plan/Project Summary 33

B Observation Guide 37

C Photo Documentation 40

D Letter of Approval 41

E Authentication Certificate 42

F Research Forms 43

x
 Abstract

Leather-based products are widely accepted by people all around the world

because of its unique qualities. However leather products cannot withstand water,

destroying its physical aspects. Because of this, the researchers developed a

water repellant coating extracted from Jatropha podagrica (Buddha Belly) leaf to

protect leather against water contact. This study used experimental design

specifically two-group group design to compare the results between the

experimental and controlled set-up. The leaves were cut into fragments which

measures 1.5g, 2.5g, and 3.5g. The leaf fragments were mixed with the chloroform

measuring 15ml, 20ml, and 25ml respectively. The solution was evaporated and

3ml of chloroform was added again to get a pure concentration. The effectiveness

of the biowax was tested by dropping a water using a micropipette and by

measuring the contact angle and the wettability of the surface of the wax-coated

leather compared to the non-coated leather. In getting the contact angle, the

researchers carefully took a photo of the water droplet and measured its angle

from the surface of the leather using a protractor. In determining of the wettability

of the surface, the researchers measured the time it took before the water has

completely immersed in the surface of both of the set-ups. The procedure was

repeated for three trials. The result showed an increase of contact angle by 93.67°

and reducing the wettability of the surface of the wax coated leather by 1 hour 17

min and 10 sec in the experimental set-up. Because of this, the researchers

concluded that the biowax extracted from the Buddha Belly leaf can be used as a

water repellant coating for leather based products.

xi
 Chapter 1

The Problem and Its Setting

Introduction

Leather-based products are widely accepted by people all around the

world because of their different aspects such as style, naturalness, leather

breathes or the fabric that allows good circulation and flexibility. In fact, according

to the World Statistical Compendium for Raw Hides and Skin, leather production

volume in 2011 is about 463,000 tons or a billion square meters and leather is

made in an estimated 9,000 tanneries worldwide (Attire Club, 2014). According to

the leather industry (2005), the leather industry was worth about 45 billion US

dollars, of which only 25.6 billion dollars were spent on finished leather articles

(55% shoes, 15% gloves and clothing, 20% cars and furniture).

In the Philippines, leather goods are the most popular luxury items bought

by one-fifth of millennial and 18 percent intends to buy more. The average

budget of Filipino consumers on leather products is about $1,000 or about P46,

000. The survey also disclosed that 75 percent of Filipino millennial spend on

leather goods for fashion, clothing, footwear, handbags, furniture, tools, and

sports equipment (The Philippine Star, 2015).

However one weakness that consumers encounter is that leathers cannot

withstand contact with water. According to MAHI Leather Company (2019), the

leather is not well mixed with water. It has some water resistance, but too much

contact with water will cause the leather to become wet due to the material’s

1
permeable nature. As the leather dries, it can be stiff and hard, losing that

wonderful supply texture. If the leather doesn’t dry quickly enough, it could even

start to rot. This makes users hesitant to use leather products especially leather

shoes on rainy seasons. Worse is that some are forced to use it which leads

them sacrificing their product. In fact, according to Leather and Leather Products

Industry Panel (2000), that compilation of all wastes generated by the leather and

leather products sector due to water contact have a total of 2,485,082 tons

worldwide. This includes common house hold type which contributes 3.4% of

waste and leather scraps produces 751 209 tons which includes footwear,

garments, gloves and etc. Because of this, some products were made to protect

most of leather-based products in getting contact to water and destroying its

quality. However, some of these products are unavailable to the local market and

some leather users cannot afford to purchase these.

With the situation cited, the researchers opted to conduct a study on

making water repellant coating for leather-based products using resources that

can be found in the local. One source of this are waxes that can be extracted

from plants. The researchers tried to research a plant which has a hydrophobic

property to be used in the study. A hydrophobic plant was found at Brgy. Malajog

Calbayog City which is the Jatropha podagrica (Buddha Belly) plant specifically

on its abaxial surface of the leaf. Because of this, the researchers isolated the

hydrophobic property of Buddha Belly leaf for developing a water repellant

coating in leather materials.

2
Theoretical Framework

This chapter presents the theories relevant to the concept of the present

study. It also analyses some studies and materials from different sources such as

the Internet to provide sufficient background and information essential for the

accomplishment of this study. It sought to collect claims of previous studies about

hydrophobicity potentials.

The Theory of Repellency stated by Choudhury in 2017 states that the

repellency of a textile fabric depends upon the resistance to wetting and

penetration by a liquid. The resistance of a fabric to wetting can be determined

by a parameter which states that the chemical nature of the surfaces due to the

presence of various polar or non-polar. In the study, wax extracted from the

Buddha Belly leaf is non-polar which will repel the water which is polar in nature.

Thus, this theory supports the possibility of the water repellant coating to work

when applied to leather based products.

The Theory of Extraction stated by Petrusha in 2016 states that waxes

can be removed by studying the nature of the solvent and solute. A popular

aphorism known by all chemistry students used for predicting solubility is “likes

dissolves like” in where a solute will best dissolve best in a solvent that has a

similar molecular chemical structure to itself. The chemical bonds can be ionic or

covalent. Non-polar (covalent) solutes dissolve best in non-polar solvents.

Waxes are non-polar in nature, so in order to dissolve the wax, a non-

polar solvent must be used. The researchers used a low-polar solvent which is

3
the chloroform in order for the wax to not get completely dissolve, hence, it can

be used in the study.

Conceptual Framework

The study focused on the isolation of the hydrophobicity potential of

Jatropha podagrica (Buddha Belly) leaf for the development of biowax as water

repellant coating for leather-based products. The study started from the

extraction of the wax from the leaves measuring 1.5g, 2.5g, and 3.5g immersing

it with the use of chloroform that measures 15ml, 20ml, and 25ml respectively.

The characteristics of the extracted wax from Buddha Belly leaf was

identified by the researchers and listed it using observation guide.

After the isolation of the wax, the biowax was tested to determine its

effectiveness in terms of contact angle of water, wettability of the surface, and

maximum temperature before disintegration by following an experimental

research design specifically two-group group design in where the

experimentation included the wax coated leather as experimental set-up and the

non-coated leather as the controlled set up that was repeated three times to

establish credibility.

4
 Extraction of biowax from

Buddha Belly leaf measuring

1.5g, 2.5g, and 3.5g. The effectiveness of biowax

in terms of:

• Contact angle of water;

• Wettability of surface; and
• Maximum temperature before
disintegration.
Characteristics of the biowax

extracted from Buddha Belly leaf

Fig. 1 Conceptual Framework of the study titled “Isolating Hydrophobicity Potential of Jatropha podagrica (Buddha
Belly) Plant: Development of Biowax as Water Repellent Coating for Leather-based Products”.

5
Statement of the Problem

This study sought to create a biowax from isolating the hydrophobicity

potential of Jatropha podagrica (Buddha Belly) leaf as water repellant coating for

leather-based products.

Specifically, this study sought to answer the following questions:

1. What is the average amount of biowax that can be extracted per 1gram of

Buddha Belly leaf?

2. What are the characteristics of the biowax extracted from the Buddha Belly

leaf?

3. How effective is the biowax extracted from Buddha Belly leaf in terms of:

3.1 Contact angle between water and biowax coated surface;

3.2 Wettability of the surface; and

3.3 Maximum temperature before disintegration?

Statement of Hypothesis

Based from the statement of the problem formulated, the following

hypothesis has been tested:

Ho: There is no significant difference between the experimental and controlled

set-up in terms of contact angle of water and the wettability of the surface.

6
Scope and Limitation of the Study

The study had focused on isolating hydrophobicity potential of Jatropha

podagrica (Buddha Belly) leaf for the development of biowax as water repellant

coating for leather-based products. This study is limited in determining the

feasibility of the biowax as a water repellent coating and is not yet ready for

actual application to be sold in the market.

The study focused on determining the effectiveness of biowax through the

contact angle of water in a wax coated leather compared to a non-coated leather

and determining the ability of the biowax to reduce the wettability of surface of

leather based products in terms of the number of hours it took before the water

has completely immersed in the surface. The researchers also tested the wax

integrity via heating the biowax in a petri dish and exposing it to varying

temperature measured in degree Celsius.

The study was conducted in the school laboratory of Calbayog City

National High School, 2019-2020.

Significance of the Study

The study in isolating hydrophobicity potential of Jatropha podagrica

(Buddha Belly) leaf is significant in developing biowax as water repellant coating

for leather-based products. With this study, it will benefit the following:

Business. This study is beneficial to different business that deals with the

production and usage of leather based products to reduce the loss of money

spent upon the decaying and degrading leathers upon having contact with water.

7
 Community. Given its benefit, the community has less leather wastes

which ends up as untreated garbage and might cause environmental problems.

Leather Consumers. With its water repellent property, the biowax can

save the leather consumers in having their leather based products get ruined

upon the contact of water, maintaining its good quality and saving money spent

on leather products.

Other Researchers. They will have a greater knowledge about the study

and they can use the information in developing a biowax which can compete on

the different commercially sold products in the market.

Definition of Terms

The following terms were used in the study and the following definitions

are researchers’ definition based on how it was used in the study to provide

clarification.

Hydrophobicity. The ability of a material or substance to repel water. In

the study, the hydrophobicity potential of the Buddha Belly leaf is the wax.

Biowax. The wax that was extracted from the Buddha Belly leaf. The

biowax was tested through experimentation to determine its effectiveness.

Contact angle. The angle formed between the water droplet and the

surface of the leather. The contact angle was measured and was determined

whether it is hydrophobic or hydrophilic basing from the researchers’ literature.

Wettability. The amount of time it took before the water has completely

soaked or immersed in the surface of the leather.

8
 Chapter 2

Review of Related Literature and Studies

This chapter presents the different related literature and studies that was

used in the study.

According to Salgado (2018), Jatropha podagrica (Buddha Belly) leaf have

components such as different peptidoglycans, various peptides, polysaccharides,

fatty acids, and other organic compounds may be active. The presence of sugar

moieties reduces the hydrophilic character of the compounds and decrease their

permeability to cell membranes, where it increases the hydrophobic character.

In quantifying hydrophobicity, it is necessary to define the relationship

between contact angle and hydrophobic character of a surface. According to

Lewarchik (2015), hydrophobic surface has a contact angle of ≥120° and

hydrophilic surface has a contact angle of ≤ 30° and ≥150° contact angle for it to

be considered as super hydrophobic surface.

One most notable surface is the lotus leaf. The contact angle of water on

the surface of a lotus leaf is greater than 150°. The cause of self-cleaning

properties of the lotus lead is the hydrophobic water-repellent double structure of

the surface. This enables the contact area and the adhesion force between

surface and droplet to be significantly reduced and results in a self-cleaning

process allowing water to readily roll off the leaf and collect dust deposits on the

way, called as the Lotus Effect. These nanostructures are coated with

hydrophobic wax crystals approximately 1nm in diameter creates a need-like

9
projections which results to a rough surface; since rough surface is more

hydrophobic than smooth surface.

The same Lotus effect was observed in Buddha Belly leaf. However, only

one side of the leaf is hydrophobic and it is the abaxial side of the leaf that is why

this fact is not popularly known to many compared to taro plant unless people

have tried to see its lotus effect. The waxes in the plants must be extracted or

removed to be utilized as biowax in the study.

Waxes from plants can be extracted both physically and chemically. The

following related studies proves the feasibility of wax extraction from the leaves

of plants. A study conducted by Huat, J. (2013) about extraction of wax from

plants for possible commercial application used physical extraction. The

researcher used a sharp knife to carefully scrap the visible wax layer from the

stem and also the abaxial surface of the leaves and stored under -20°C. The wax

samples were dissolved in n-hexane. The amount of n-hexane used was just

enough to cover all the wax. The study shows the possibility of wax extraction

through using physical extraction and the creation of biowax using the mentioned

chemicals. This study used physical extraction of wax which is different from the

chemical extraction the researchers used.

Another study conducted by Kitagami, J. et. al. (2012) used chloroform to

extract the wax from the cultivated species and varieties of coffee. The waxes

were extracted by three consecutive immersions in chloroform following 30s, 20s

and 15s respectively. The pooled extracts were evaporated to dryness in a

rotatory evaporator. The waxes were dissolved in a small volume of chloroform;

10
the solvent was evaporated on a steam bath and the flasks maintained in

desiccator until mass. The study used a different species of plant in extracting

the wax of the leaves compared to the researchers’ study which the Buddha

Belly leaf was utilized. The extraction of wax was made possible using a

chemical called chloroform.

Chloroform was also used during a study conducted by Ganeva et al.

(2015). The researchers extracted the wax by immersing the whole leaves for 3

minutes at a room temperature approximately 22-24°C in organic solvents-

chloroform. The epicuticular waxes were mechanically isolated from the upper

and lower surfaces of the leaves following the freezing-embedding method.

The researchers used a different plant species in the development of

biowax in where it is the Buddha Belly plant. Extracting the wax from its abaxial

surface, the researchers produced a biowax and use it in the experimentation.

Based from the previous literature and studies, the researchers confirm

the feasibility of the experiment in terms of extracting the wax from the Buddha

Belly leaf and the production of biowax. The researchers used chloroform in the

study because of its effectiveness and it has been used a lot of times by previous

researchers. After collecting the sufficient amount of Buddha Belly leaf and the

necessary chemicals such as chloroform, the researchers conducted the study

and expected to have conclusive results.

11
 Chapter 3

Methodology

This chapter presents the methods and procedures that were used in the

conduct of the study. This chapter includes the research design, research

environment, instrumentation, validation of instrument, data gathering procedure,

statistical treatment.

Research Design

This study utilized an experimental research design. Petidar (2013),

defined experimental research that is concerned with examination of the effects

of independent variable on the dependent variable, where the independent

variable is manipulated through treatments or intervention, and the effects of

those interventions is observed on the dependent variable. Specifically, this study

used a two-group group design: a type of research design that involves two

comparable groups that are employed as experimental and control groups or two

comparable groups are both experimental group. (Calmorin & Calmorin, 2010).

In the study, the researchers used the two-group group design in

comparing the wax coated leather as the experimental set-up and the non-coated

leather as the controlled set-up in terms of contact angle of water and wettability

of the surface.

12
Research Environment

The researchers performed the experiment solely inside the school

laboratory which included the extraction of wax from Buddha Belly leaf and the

test for hydrophobicity. The leaves used in the experiment were collected at

Brgy. Malajog Calbayog City and the chemical were purchased in the University

of Eastern Philippines under the supervision of the research coordinator.

Research Instrumentation

The study utilized a research instrument to help gather the data necessary

for interpretation. The researchers made use of observation guide adopted in

the study of study of Kalita, A. and Talakudar, N. (2018). The observation guide

was relevant in determining the hydrophobicity of the biowax in terms of contact

angle and wettability; weight of wax extracted; and maximum temperature the

biowax can absorb before disintegration.

According to Gorman and Clayton (2005), observation guide is defined as

observation studies as those that involve the systematic recording of observable

phenomena or behavior in a natural setting. In this study, the observation guide

was used in a laboratory setting.

The observation guides were filled up to gather data in terms of the

average amount of biowax that can be extracted per 1gram of Buddha Belly leaf,

contact angle of water, wettability of the surface and maximum temperature of

the biowax can take before disintegrating.

13
 Using the observation guide as data collection instrument is an effective

method to collect necessary data in the experiment which helped the researcher

distinguish the Biowax as a water repellant coating for leather-based products.

Data Gathering Procedure

Upon the completion of the study, the researchers had underwent series

of procedure including the formulation of the problem, the researcher title,

experimentation and conclusion.

The researchers brainstormed upon the different possible research

problem that can be solved through experimental research. The researchers

observed the environment and one of the researchers’ observation is the

weakness of leather products in having contact with water resulting for the

product to degrade and causing excessive financial expenditures on buying

leather products. The researchers consulted the research adviser and asked

expertise upon the chosen topics. After title consultation, the study underwent

series revisions including panel consultation to polish the chapters included in the

manuscript. After the approval of the first three chapters, the study immediately

underwent series of experimentation until the researchers were able to arrive at

its feasibility in developing a biowax as a water repellant coating for leather

based products.

In this study, the observation guide was used to help the researchers

gather necessary data. The experimental and controlled set-up each has three

trials. The observation guide was filled by the researchers in getting the

14
hydrophobicity of water in terms of contact angle and wettability; amount of wax

extracted; and maximum heat temperature the biowax can hold before

disintegration. The data in the observation guide was then encoded for the

tabulation and was interpreted with the help of statistical treatment used in the

study.

Data were gathered and the results were interpreted by the researchers

themselves. After series of revisions and editing, the study was successfully

finished. The following procedure were carefully followed for the completion of

the study.

Collection of Buddha Belly leaf

The researchers inquired an authentication certificate form the Calbayog

City of Agriculture to identify and verify the leaf that was used in the study. Fresh

leaves of Buddha Belly were collected at Brgy. Malajog Calbayog City. The

leaves were exposed to water droplets to determine if it does possess the lotus

effect phenomenon. The researchers figured out that the water quickly immersed

in the adaxial surface of the leaf. In contrast, its abaxial surface completely

shows the lotus effect.

Collection of the chemical

Due to the lack of chemical in the school laboratory, the researchers made

a letter of approval to purchase chloroform from the University of Eastern

Philippines, Northern Samar under the supervision of the school’s research

coordinator.

15
Preparation for the product development

The researchers ensured the safety before conducting the experiment

where in chemical was involved. The researchers were under the supervision of

licensed personnel in conducting the study. Following the safety protocol in

conducting the experiment, the researchers prepared safety goggles, laboratory

gowns, gloves, and N-95 masks to prevent the inhalation of the chemical and

getting contact to the body. Before experimentation, people were escorted away

from the laboratory room to prevent casualties.

Extraction of wax from Buddha Belly leaf

Leaves were cut into fragments using dissecting scissors. The leaf

fragments were weighed, using a digital weighing scale and a watch glass, to

achieve three (3) set-ups; 1.5g, 2.5g and 3.5g respectively. To get the accurate

mass of the leaf fragments, the researchers used the formula: total weight of the

materials–the weight of the watch glass = weight of the leaf fragment. The

fragments were placed in separate petri dishes and the wax were extracted using

the chloroform that measures 15 ml, 20 ml, and 25ml. Glass rod was used to

completely immerse the leaves in the chloroform for 3 minutes (Talakudar, N.

and Kalita, A. 2018). The leaves were separated from the solution using forceps.

The chloroform containing wax was left air dried for 1 hour to completely

evaporate the solvent.

16
Wax Confirmatory Test

Observation was used in confirming the wax after solvent extraction

method. A cloudy layer was seen floating in the petri dish that contains

chloroform solution.

Measuring the wax content of the leaves

The leaves treated with chloroform was left air dried to let the solvent

evaporate. The leaves were measured again and was recorded in getting the

wax content of the leaves. The following formula was used: weight of leaf

fragments before chloroform treatment-weight of leaf fragments after chloroform

treatment = amount of wax in grams.

Determining the characteristics of extracted wax

Using an observation guide, the researchers carefully observed the wax

extracted from the Buddha Belly leaf after chloroform treatment and list down its

characteristics and descriptions. In terms of color, the extracted wax is colorless

and transparent. Its texture is smooth. The wax is also odorless. It has a low

viscosity and is insoluble in water. Because of the following characteristics, the

researchers concluded that the substance that was extracted from the Buddha

Belly leaf was wax.

Test for the effectiveness of the biowax in terms of hydrophobicity

The wax extracted from the solvent extraction method was immersed with

3 ml of chloroform to get a pure concentration. The researchers coated a piece of

17
leather with 5 drops of the solution as the experimental set-up and the controlled

set-up remained uncoated. The researchers waited for 10 minutes for the

chloroform to evaporate. The researchers repeated the test into three trials to get

the mean of the results. The test for hydrophobicity was determined in two ways:

A. Contact angle of the water from the surface of leather

The hydrophobicity was tested by dropping a water using a micropipette

on the experimental and controlled set-up. In measuring the contact angle of

water on a surface, an instrument called goniometer is used. Due to the scarcity

of instrument in the school laboratory, the researchers thought of an

improvisation in measuring the contact angle of water and the surface by taking a

photo of the droplet on both set-ups using a high-quality camera and a protractor.

In classifying the hydrophobicity via contact angle, the researchers followed a

standard measurement. According to Lewarchik (2015), hydrophobic surface has

a contact angle of ≥120° and hydrophilic surface has a contact angle of ≤ 30°

and ≥150° contact angle for it to be considered as super hydrophobic surface.

B. Wettability of the surface

The researchers measured the time it took for the water before it

completely immersed on the leather in the experimental and controlled set-ups.

Using a timer on each trial, the researchers were able to record the time it took

for the water to completely immerse in both set-ups.

18
Maximum Temperature of the Biowax before Disintegration

The researchers prepared the biowax in the petri dish. The researchers

placed the petri dish on the heating plate to heat up the samples with the

corresponding temperatures with an interval of 10°C. The researchers stopped at

the temperature in where the wax will disintegrate. The results were evaluated

through observation and by describing whether from temperature the wax started

to disintegrate.

SCHEMATIC DIAGRAM

A. Product Development

Preparation for the materials and leaf samples

Fig.2 Preparing all the Fig.3 Cutting the leaves into

materials fragments

Fig.5 Preparing the samples Fig.4 Weighing the leaf

fragments

19
Extraction of wax from Buddha Belly Leaf
E

Fig.6 Measuring Fig.7 Mixing the solvent

Chloroform and leaf samples

Fig.9 Removing leaf after 3 Fig.8 Immersing the leaves

minutes of immersing using glass rod

Fig.10 Evaporation of wax Fig.11 Weighing the leaf

for 1 hour with chloroform treatment

Fig.12 Adding 3ml of

Fig.13 Concentrated wax for
chloroform to the extracted wax
leather coating

20
 B. Product Testing

Fig.15 Getting the contact angle

Fig.14 Preparation of setups

Fig.17 Maximum temperature Fig.16 Testing the wettability of

of wax before disintegration the surface

Statistical Treatment

To interpret the data effectively, the researchers employed the statistical

treatment below.

1. Mean

This was used to determine the value of the average weight, average

angle, average time and average temperature of biowax to establish

credibility of the result.

21
 Chapter 4
Presentation, Analysis, and Interpretation of Data

This chapter presents the results, interpretations and discussions of the

data that were collected during the research methodology.

Table 1. Average weight of wax per gram

Extracted
Buddha Belly Leaves
Wax

Before Chloroform After Chloroform Amount

Trial Treatment (in Treatment (in (In
Grams) Grams) Grams)

1 1.5 1.18 0.32

2 2.5 1.95 0.55

3 3.5 2.74 0.76

Total Weight 7.5 5.87 1.63

Average Weight of Wax per gram 0.22

This table shows the average wax that can be extracted per gram of

Buddha Belly leaf. It can be concluded that the amount of wax that was extracted

is directly proportional to the increase of leaf weight in the three samples by

adding the same ratio of solvent. The statistical treatment shows that 1 gram of

Buddha Belly leaf contains an approximate value of 0.22 grams of wax.

22
Table 2. Characteristics of the biowax extracted from the Buddha Belly leaf

Characteristics Description

Color Clear/Transparent

Texture Smooth

Odor Odorless

Viscosity Low viscosity

This table shows the characteristics of the biowax extracted from the

Buddha Belly leaf in terms of color, texture, odor, viscosity and solubility. The

wax is clear and transparent. It has a smooth texture. It is odor less and has a

low viscosity. Based from the characteristics, the researchers concluded that the

substance that was extracted from the Buddha Belly leaf possesses the

characteristics of wax.

Fig.18 Trial 1 Wax- Fig.19 Trial 2 Wax- Fig.20 Trial 3 Wax-

Coated Leather Coated Leather Coated Leather

Fig.21 Trial 1 Non- Fig.22 Trial 2 Non- Fig.23 Trial 3 Non-

Coated Leather Coated Leather Coated Leather

23
 Figures 13, 14, and 15 are wax-coated leathers while figures 16, 17, and 18

are the non-coated leather. The water droplet has a greater contact angle in the

experimental set-up due to the presence of biowax which makes the leather

more hydrophobic compared to the water droplet in the controlled set-up which

is non-coated leather.

Table 3. Comparative table of the contact angle from the experimental and
controlled set-up

Biowax Coated Leather (experimental set-up)

Trial Contact Angle Property

1 127° Hydrophobic

2 124° Hydrophobic

3 115° Hydrophilic

Average Contact
Angle 122° Hydrophobic

Non-coated Leather (controlled set-up)

Trial Contact Angle Property

1 31° Hydrophilic

2 23° Hydrophilic

3 31° Hydrophilic

Average Contact
Angle
28.33° Hydrophilic

This table shows the comparison of angles between the wax-coated

leather and the non-coated leather as the experimental and controlled set-up

respectively. The contact angle of the wax coated-leather measures an average

24
of 122° and non-coated leather which measures 28.33° with a contact angle

difference of 93.67°. According to Lewarchik (2015), hydrophobic surface has a

contact angle of ≥120° and hydrophilic surface has a contact angle of ≤ 30° and

≥150° contact angle for it to be considered as super hydrophobic surface., thus it

is Hydrophobic and water repelling. The researchers concluded that the leather-

coated with biowax has hydrophobic property.

Table 4. Wettability of the Surface

Trial Time it takes before water immersion

Wax Coated Leather Non Coated Leather

1 1 hour 45 min and 14 sec 33 min and 30 sec

2 1 hour 50 min and 40 sec 31 min and 17 sec

3 1 hour 53 min and 31 sec 35 min and 50 sec

Average time 1 hour 50 min and 31 sec 33 min and 21 sec

This table shows the average time it took before the water has completely

immersed on the leather surface with the wax coated leather and non-coated

leather. The non-coated leather took 33 minutes and 21 seconds before water

has completely immersed on the leather while the wax coated leather has an

improved time up to 1 hour 50 minutes and 31 seconds in where it shows a large

difference. The longer the time it takes for the water to immerse, the more

hydrophobic the surface is. Thus the biowax reduces the wettability of leather

products.

25
Table 5. Maximum temperature before disintegration of biowax

Temperature (in °C) Wax Integrity

10 Intact

20 Intact

30 Intact

40 Intact

50 Intact

60 Intact

70 Starts to disintegrate

This table shows the maximum heat that the biowax can absorb before

disintegrating. The wax can absorb a maximum temperature of 70°C which is

ideal for leather coating when exposed outdoors.

26
 Chapter 5
Summary of Findings, Conclusions and Recommendations

This chapter presents the summary of findings, conclusions and

recommendations from the interpreted data during the experimentation.

Summary of Findings

The study revealed the following findings:

An average amount of 0.22grams of biowax was extracted using 1.5g,

2.5g, 3.5g of Buddha leaf immersing it in the chloroform using 15ml, 20ml, and

25ml.

The biowax extracted from the Buddha Belly Leaf was transparent in

terms of color, has a smooth texture, it was odorless and has a low viscosity.

The average contact angle of water measured in a coated leather was

classified as hydrophobic measuring 122° while the average contact angle of

water measured in the non-coated leather was classified as hydrophilic which

only measured 28.33°. The contact angle of the wax coated leather and the non-

coated leather has a difference of 93.67°. The water droplet took a longer time to

immerse in the coated leather compared to the non-coated leather which has an

improved time of 1 hour 17 minutes and 10 second and the maximum

temperature that the biowax can absorb before disintegration after exposing it to

the heater up to 70°C.

27
Conclusions

Based from the findings gathered, the researchers concluded the following

statements:

The amount of biowax extracted will increase by 0.22grams per 1 gram of

Buddha Belly leaf.

The substance extracted from the Buddha Belly leaf possess the

characteristics of a wax.

Based from the angle measured from the experimental and controlled set-

up, the biowax is effective as a water repellent coating for leather based

products. The biowax is effective in repelling water based from the maximum

time it took before the water has completely immersed in both set-ups. The

biowax is suitable for outdoor since it can absorb temperature not exceeding than

70°C.

Recommendations

Based from the results obtained, the researchers strongly recommend the

following for further improvement of the study. For more accurate measurement,

the researchers recommend to use a standard measuring equipment in order to

ensure accuracy on the contact angle. The researchers recommend for the future

researchers to determine the other uses of biowax extracted from Buddha Belly

leaf aside from its effectiveness in repelling water in leather-based products.

Finally, the researchers recommend to compare other hydrophobic plant found in

the local to see which among of them are the most effective in repelling water.

28
 References

AttireClub (2014). 10 Advantages of Leather. Retrieved on July 17, 2019, from

https://attireclub.org/2014/04/05/10-advantages-leather/
Baldo, J. (2013). Mimicking nature’s waterproof technology. Retrieved on July 18,
2019, from
www.science.ph/full_story.php?type=News&key=10379:mimicking-
natures-waterproof-technology
Choudhury, A. (2017). Principles of Textile Finishing. Retrieved on July 18, 2019,
from https://www.sciencedirect.com/topic/engineering/repellency.
Ganeva et al. (2015). Leaf epidermis structure in Cydonia oblonga (Rosaceae),
Biotechnol. Isolation and recrystallization of epicuticular waxes from
Sorbus and Cotoneaster leaves. Retrieved from August 19, 2019,
from https://cyberleninka.org
Gorman & Clayton (2005). Roles of the Researcher pp. 240. Observation: A
Complex Research Method. Retrieved from September 30, 2019
Huat, J. (2013) Extraction of Wax from Plants for Possible Commercial
Application. Retrieved on July 19, 2019, from
https://ir.unimas.my/Extraction-of-Wax
Kalita, A. and Talukdar. N, (2018). International Journal of Pharmacy and
Biological Sciences. Colocasia Esculenta (L.) Leaf Bio-Wax as a
hydrophobic Surface Coating Substance for Leather for Plastic
Preparing Hydrophobic Leather Bags, 8(2), pp. 583-589
Kitagami, et. al, (2012). Foliar cuticular waxes of cultivated species and varities
of Coffea. Biochemical Systematics and Ecology. Retreived from
www.elsevier.com/locate/biochemsyseco
Leather and Leather Products Industry Panel (2003). Wastes Generated in the
Leather Products Industry. Retrieved on September 12, 2019, from
https://leatherpanel.org/leather_waste_recycling
Leather Industry, (2005). Loving Leather. Retrieved on September 16, 2019 from
https://www.leather-dictionary.com/index.php/Leather_industry
Lewarchik, R. (2015). Hydrophobic Coatings Explained. Retrieved on September
12, 2019, from https://knowledge.ulprospector.com/2530/pc-
hydrophobic-coatings
Mahi Leather Company (2019). Is Leather Waterproof or Repellant? Retrieve on
July 18, 2019, from https://mahileather.com/blogs/news/is-leather-
waterproof-or-water-resistant

29
Nasri, N. et al. (2014). Hydrophobicity characterization of bio-wax derived from
taro leaf for surface coating applications. Retrieved on July 17, 2019,
fromhttps://www.researchgate.net/publication/266970535_Hydrophobicity
_Cha rateriz ation_of_Bio
Wax_Derive_from_Taro_Leaf_for_Surface_coating_Applications
Petidar, L. (2012). Experimental Research-Definition, type of designs and
advantages. Retrieved on September 14, 2019 from
https://www.questionpro.com/blog/experimental-research/
Philippine Star (2015). 75% of Pinoy millennial spends on luxury goods.
Retrieved from September 19, 2019, from
https://www.pressreader.com/
Ritchie, H (2018). FAQs on Plastics. Retrieved on July 15, 2019, from
https://ourworldindata.org/fag-on-plastics
Rodriguez, F. (2019). Plastic chemical compound. Retrieved on July 15, 2019,
from https://www.Britannica.com/science/plastic
Salgado, A. (2018). Jatropha podagrica leaf-stem: bioactive constituents and
pharmacological functions. Retrieved on September 13, 2019 from
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2770043/

30
 APPENDIX A
RESEARCH PLAN/PROJECT SUMMARY
A.

Leather-based products are widely accepted by people all around the

world because of their different aspects such as style, naturalness, leather

breathes or the fabric that allows good circulation and flexibility. However one

weakness that consumers encounter is that leathers cannot take into account

having contact with water. So the researchers conducted a study on making

water repellant coating for leather-based products using resources that can be

easily found in the local. One source of this are waxes that can be extracted from

plants. A hydrophobic plant was found at Brgy. Malajog Calbayog City which is

the Jatropha podagrica (Buddha Belly) plant specifically on its abaxial surface of

the leaf. Because of this, the researchers isolated the hydrophobic property of

Buddha Belly leaf for water repellant coating in leather materials. The

researchers measured the effectiveness of the biowax in terms of the contact

angle of water from the surface of the wax-coated leather and the non-coated

wax leather and its reduction to the wettability of the surface. Therefore, the

researchers are opted to create a biowax that is effective in repelling water to

benefit the leather users and leather products which are commonly exposed to

watery environment such as footwear to maintain its quality.

The Research Design, Research Instrument, and Research Procedure are

done with the help of the recommendations coming from the researchers’

research adviser and from consulting personnel who are research inclined.

31
B.

This study sought to create a biowax from isolating the hydrophobicity

potential of Jatropha podagrica (Buddha Belly) leaf as water repellant coating.

Specifically, this study sought to answer the following questions:

1. What is the average amount of biowax that can be extracted per 1gram of

Buddha Belly leaf?

2. What are the characteristics of the biowax extracted from the Buddha

Belly leaf?

3. How effective is the biowax extracted from Buddha Belly leaf in terms of:

3.1. Contact angle between water and biowax coated surface;

3.2. Wettability of the surface; and

3.3. Maximum temperature before disintegration?

C.

Research Procedure

Collection of Buddha Belly leaf

The researchers inquired an authentication certificate form the Calbayog

City of Agriculture to identify and verify the leaf that was used in the study. Fresh

leaves of Buddha Belly were collected at Brgy. Malajog Calbayog City. The

leaves were exposed to water droplets to determine if it does possess the lotus

effect phenomenon. The researchers figured out that the water quickly immersed

in the adaxial surface of the leaf. In contrast, its abaxial surface completely

shows the lotus effect.

32
Collection of the chemical

Due to the lack of chemical in the school laboratory, the researchers made

a letter of approval to purchase chloroform from the University of Eastern

Philippines, Northern Samar under the supervision of the school’s research

Extraction of wax from Buddha Belly leaf

Leaves were cut into fragments using dissecting scissors. The leaf

fragments were weighed, using a digital weighing scale and a watch glass, to

achieve three (3) set-ups; 1.5g, 2.5g and 3.5g respectively. To get the accurate

mass of the leaf fragments, the researchers used the formula: total weight of the

materials–the weight of the watch glass = weight of the leaf fragment. The

fragments were placed in separate petri dishes and the wax were extracted using

the chloroform that measures 15 ml, 20 ml, and 25ml. Glass rod was used to

completely immerse the leaves in the chloroform for 3 minutes (Talakudar, N.

and Kalita, A. 2018). The leaves were separated from the solution using forceps.

The chloroform containing wax was left air dried for 1 hour to completely

evaporate the solvent.

Risk and Safety

The researchers ensured the safety before conducting the experiment in

where chemical was involved. The researchers were under the supervision of

licensed personnel in conducting the study. Following the safety protocol in

conducting the experiment, the researchers prepared safety goggles, laboratory

gowns, gloves, and N-95 masks to prevent the inhalation of the chemical and

33
getting contact to the body. Before experimentation, people were escorted away

from the laboratory room to prevent casualties.

Data Analysis

The researchers used observation guide to help collect the data necessary for

the interpretation. The researchers used statistical treatment to help in

interpreting the gathered data. The statistical treatment that was utilized was

finding the Mean (average) in determine the value of the average weight,

average angle, average time and average temperature of biowax to establish

credibility of the result.

34
 APPENDIX B

Observation Guide

Table 1. Weight of Buddha Belly Leaves

Location: _____________________________ Start time: _______________
Date: _________________________________Stop time: _______________

Trial
SETUP
1 2 3

Setup 1
(Before Treatment)

Setup 2
(After Treatment)

Difference

Table 2. Characteristics of the biowax extracted from the Buddha Belly leaf
Location: _____________________________ Start time: _______________
Date: _________________________________Stop time: _______________

Characteristics Description

35
 Table 3. Contact Angle of Water on the Wax Coated Leather
Location: _____________________________ Start time: _______________
Date: _________________________________Stop time: _______________

Trial
(Angle)
SETUP
Trial 1 Trial 2 Trial 3

Setup 1
(Biowax surface)

Setup 2
(Untreated Surface)

Table 4. Time it takes before water immersed on the surface

Location: _____________________________ Start time: _______________
Date: _________________________________Stop time: _______________

Trial
(Time it takes before water immersion)
SETUP
Trial 1 Trial 2 Trial 3

Setup 1
(Biowax surface)

Setup 2
(Untreated Surface)

36
Table 5. Maximum temperature before disintegration of biowax
Location: _____________________________ Start time: _______________
Date: _________________________________Stop time: _______________

Temperature (in °C) Wax Integrity

37
 APPENDIX C
Photo documentation during the experiment

38
 APPENDIX D
Letter of Approval
September 02, 2019

KARINA MILAGROS R. CUI-LIM, RCh, PhD

Dean, College of Science
University of Eastern Philippines
Catarman, Northern Samar

Madam:

Greetings.

I am Jeff Manuel M. Salomon, a student from Calbayog City National High

School under the Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics Strand,
currently conducting an experimental research titled “Isolating Hydrophobicity
Potentials of Jatropha podagrica (Buddha Belly) Leaf: Development of biowax
as water repellant coating for leather-based products” in partial fulfillment for the
requirements in Practical Research II for the School Year 2019-2020.
In view hereof, the researcher is in deep need of the chemical chloroform as
basic chemical requirement in the extraction of waxes for the aforementioned study.
Having known of your institution as a front liner in Science Education, the
undersigned humbly requests permission from your good office in purchasing 240ml
of chloroform. Rest assured that your consideration will solely be utilized for
research purposes only.

Your favorable response on the request at hand is earnestly sought.

Thank you.

Respectfully Yours,

(SGD) JEFF MANUEL M. SALOMON

Researcher
Noted:

(SGD) ROBERT ANTHONY F. YGRUBAY

Research Coordinator

Approved:

(SGD) CALICK D. ARRIETA, PhD

School Principal II

39