CHAPTER I

THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND

Introduction

Correction fluid is a liquid that hides faults in printed or handwritten texts

(Britannica, 2024). It is often applied with a brush or pen-like applicator and dries

quickly, creating an opaque surface that may be written or typed on. It is commonly

used to correct typographical or ink problems, allowing users to keep their papers

clean and professional. Daniel (2022) states that Bette Nesmith Graham invented

correction fluid in the 1950s. Originally, she designed it to remedy typing errors

while working as a secretary. Her product grew in popularity, prompting the

formation of the Liquid Paper Corporation. Cornstarch. According to Choulis

(2014), it is a tasteless, white, odorless powder that is used in papermaking, food

processing, and the creation of industrial adhesives. It is also a component of

numerous moral medicinal and cosmetic goods. maize flour is a carbohydrate

obtained from the endosperm of maize. This white powder is used in a wide range

of residential, culinary, and industrial applications.

Cornstarch was created in New Jersey in 1844 and is currently

manufactured in corn-growing countries like the United States, China, Brazil, and

India. Cornstarch is used to thicken marinades such as sauces, gravies, a glaze for

stews, casseroles, pies, and other sweets. It may be found in a wide range of

cuisines across the world, with North America and Asia producing and eating the

most. The extensive use of correction fluids in academic, professional, and creative

1
settings highlights their significance in preserving the precision and clarity of

written communication. Traditional correction fluids, which are often composed of

solvents, pigments, and binders, have long been criticized for their environmental

impact and potential health hazards. These goods include volatile organic

compounds (VOCs), which contribute to indoor air pollution and pose dangers

when breathed, especially in poorly ventilated areas. Furthermore, the disposal of

such chemical-laden items creates issues of environmental sustainability and waste

management.

Cornstarch has a high potential as an alternative correction fluid because to

its safety, environmental advantages, and convenience of use. However, there are

significant limits, notably in terms of durability and drying time. With the proper

components, cornstarch-based correction fluid can be a practical, non-toxic, and

environmentally friendly alternative to existing treatments. It is a natural,

biodegradable substance that is non-toxic and safe to use, making it a superior

alternative to typical correction fluids containing hazardous chemicals such as

solvents and volatile organic compounds (Recycle Track System, Incorporation,

2022). Cornstarch, as a plant-based product, has a lower environmental impact than

correction fluid manufacture and disposal.

Cornstarch naturally thickens when combined with water or other liquids,

resulting in a paste-like consistency that may be applied with a brush or applicator

(Chin, 2022). This consistency is comparable to that of typical correction fluid,

making it efficient in covering written mistakes. Cornstarch, when coupled with

other materials such as a white pigment and a small quantity of adhesive, adheres

2
effectively to paper and other surfaces, making it an effective solution for

concealing mistakes. Cornstarch can be combined with white pigments like

titanium dioxide to form a white, opaque mixture that successfully masks ink or

printed text. The amount of pigment used can be varied to reach the appropriate

level of coverage.

However, cornstarch-based correction fluid may not dry as quickly as

traditional fluids, adding a small amount of alcohol or another fast-evaporating

solvent can help speed up the drying process. According to Reichardt (1990),

alcohols like isopropanol or ethanol are known to evaporate quickly due to their

low boiling points, which is why they are commonly added to formulations to

speed up drying. Developing eco-friendly office supplies, particularly paper and

ink, has been slow, with limited research on sustainable alternatives like

cornstarch.

While cornstarch has potential as a thickening agent, its specific application

in correction fluid formulations remains underexplored, highlighting the need for

more sustainable alternatives. This study addresses the key research gap by

providing complete data on the performance and usability of cornstarch-based

corrective fluids. Furthermore, the impact of additions like as colors and alcohol in

improving the qualities of cornstarch-based corrective fluids has not been well

investigated. This research aims to examine the effectiveness of cornstarch as an

alternative correction fluid. The study will explore various formulations,

incorporating additional ingredients such as white pigments for opacity and alcohol

for enhanced drying times. By examining factors such as coverage, drying speed,

3
durability, and ease of use, this research will provide insights into the feasibility of

cornstarch as a sustainable alternative in the correction fluid market.

This research not only contributes to the development of a specific product

but also aligns with the global shift towards sustainability in everyday consumer

goods. By exploring the potential of cornstarch-based correction fluids, this study

seeks to offer a viable alternative that balances performance, safety, and

environmental responsibility, thereby paving the way for more sustainable office

supplies in the future.

In conclusion, cornstarch has the potential to be a safer and more eco-

friendly alternative to traditional correction fluid. While there are some drawbacks

such as durability and drying time, the right mix of ingredients could make

cornstarch-based correction fluid practical and non-toxic. More research is needed

to explore its specific use in correction fluid. This study provides data on the

performance and usability of cornstarch-based correction fluids. The study will test

different formulations, including additional ingredients like white pigments for

opacity and alcohol for faster drying. By considering factors such as coverage,

drying speed, durability, and ease of use, this research will shed light on the

possibility of cornstarch as a sustainable alternative in the correction fluid markets.

4
 Objectives of the Study

The researchers investigate the Performance and Usability of Alternative

Correction Fluid using Cornstarch. The specified objectives are:

1. To develop a cornstarch-based correction fluid

2. To determine the significant difference between each treatment with regards

to:

i. Coverage: determine the ability of the correction fluid to conceal the

errors in the paper effectively

ii. Opacity: determine the correct thickness and density to which the fluid

can obscure the errors underneath the paper.

iii. Consistency: determine the right consistency that will flow easily,

allowing for a uniform application that covers mistakes effectively

iv. Adhesion: determine the correct formulation that ensures that the

correction fluid stays firmly in place without peeling, flaking, or rubbing

off over time.

v. Appearance: enhance the visual quality and finish of the fluid once it

has been applied and dried on the paper.

vi. Ease of Use: enhance the convenience in relevance to the application

and usage of the product.

vii. Drying Time: enhance the time of drying the correction fluid

5
 Hypothesis of the Study

The study aims to study the following hypothesis:

H01: There is no significant difference in the coverage between the cornstarch-

based correction fluid and traditional correction fluids.

H02: There is no significant difference in transparency, consistency, or adhesion

between the cornstarch-based correction fluid and traditional correction fluids.

H03: There is no significant difference in drying time or smoothness of use

between the cornstarch-based correction fluid and traditional correction fluids.

H04: There is no significant difference between each treatment in terms of

appearance between the prototype and the commercialized correction fluids.

Significance of the Study

The study will benefit the following:

Consumers. This study has the potential to greatly impact consumers by

simplifying their administrative tasks and improving the quality of their academic

papers.

6
 Environment. The research conducted can help make our environment eco-

friendlier regarding the products used and prevent health risks.

Society. This study can lead to the development of new products and

practices that promote sustainability and healthier living environments. We can

prevent health problems and other social problems by developing new products that

are nonchemical.

Other researchers. Other researchers will find value in the study since it

establishes a foundation for additional investigation into the use of cornstarch as

correction fluid and may inspire the creation of new products.

Scope and Limitations

This study aims to assess how cornstarch will be utilized as the main

component in producing an alternative correction fluid. It will investigate the

cornstarch’s usability and effectiveness, look at its characteristics, contrast it with

traditional correction fluids, and consider possible benefits such as rapid drying

time and coverage. This includes the process of testing the liquid formula to

different types of paper that differ in color and texture.

7
 CHAPTER 2

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

This chapter contains the reviews of literature and studies on using

cornstarch as an alternative material in correction fluids. The conceptual framework

and the definition of terms are also presented in this section.

Titanium Dioxide

According to Sheikh (2023), one naturally occurring metal element in the

environment is titanium. Many minerals, soils, sands, and dust particles consist of

titanium oxides, which are formed by exposure to airborne oxygen. Besides being

chemically inert and semiconducting, titanium dioxide shows photocatalytic

activity in response to light energy greater than or equal to its band-gap energy.

Several applications are possible because of these characteristics. TiO2 has been

classified as physiologically inert in humans and animals is often categorized as a

“natural” substance, which contributes to its general approval it the public’s eye

(Oncol, 2011). The majority of TiO2 has been produced by the mineral ilmenite,

FeTiO3, utilizing the “sulfate” or “chloride” technique for over a century.

According to the Chemical Safety Facts Organization (2024), titanium dioxide has

been used for over a century in a wide range of industrial and consumer products,

8
including coatings, paper, paints, adhesives, plastics, and printing ink. Two types of

titanium dioxide are created, which is ultrafine or nanomaterial products and

pigment-grade titanium dioxide. the pigmentary form of pigment-grade titanium

dioxide utilizes material’s potent light-scattering properties in situations where

white opacity and brightness are necessary. An ultrafine or nanomaterial product is

produced when specific properties are needed, including maximal UV light

absorption and transparency, like in cosmetic sunscreens.

Titanium Dioxide as a White Pigment

According to Romanowski (2024), titanium dioxide is frequently used as an

opacifying agent. The pigment grade is the brightest and whitest known pigment

and because of that, it is sometimes referred to as titanium white. It is the most

appropriate white pigment because it has a high refractive index and is incapable of

absorbing visible light. According to Beetsma (2018), TiO2 grades are available in

all sorts of particles size and can undergo different processing methods. By altering

the processing method and combining titanium dioxide with other substances, a

variety of colors may be produced. These substances are utilized to create the

different colored correction fluids, with the opacifying agent making up between 40

to 60 percent of the mixture.

Correction Fluid

According to Romanowski (2024), Even if the opacifying agent hides the

fault, a polymeric substance is utilized to secure it to the paper. When this

polymeric substance dries completely, it forms a layer that adheres firmly to the

9
paper fibers. The film is designed to be robust enough to stay in place while yet

being flexible enough to not crack, flake, or fall off under typical conditions.

Correction fluids are designed differently depending on the type of paper they are

intended to cover. On white typing paper, the formula is normally white and

intended to dry rapidly. Correction fluid formulae are created for bonded paper that

dry with a different texture, enabling the correction less apparent. For repairs on

non-white paper, numerous colored correction fluids are available. Products for

photocopying are also available; these recipes have particular additives that limit

light reflection off the film, allowing it to merge seamlessly with the color and

texture of the paper.

Food Thickeners

In a review by Imeson (2009), the consumption of processed foods began to

increase as the world became modernized and the demand for texturizing agents

continually increased. Food thickeners are from various natural and raw materials,

including animal-derived, plants, and tree exudates, which are some of the main

sources of food-thickening agents (Imeson, 1992). Thickening agents are

significantly a demand in modern usage as it is used in various materials and

objects such as food, things, etc.

Thickening agents are a major food ingredient that controls the textual

properties of varieties of food products (Clegg, 1995).

According to Imeson (2009), thickening agents also control moisture and

provide structure, flow, and stability to food products. In line with this study,

10
starch-based or gum-based thickening powders are available in commercial markets

for the medical management of such patients (Hadde and Chen, 2019).

Ethanol as a fast-drying Component

According to Chou and Chua (2001), drying is a process in which it is

widely used and applied to extend the shelf life and to gather new forms of

consumption. In the study of Braga (2009), the use of alternative materials and use

of process accelerators to enhance the drying process is still unexplored wherein it

is degradable and harmless to humans. In addition to the recent study, agents that

form an azeotrope with water such as ethanol, acetic acid, etc. were used in

accelerating the drying process and preserving the products’ properties and

compounds. Ethanol was used to test the drying process on pumpkins. In effect, the

use of ethanol as a pre-treatment to hot-air convective drying of pumpkin cylinders.

In the study of Chou (2001), the diversity of food products drying depends on the

types of dryers the food industry has introduced and the selection of an appropriate

dryer is based on the drying characteristics of the product.

Vinegar as a Preservative

Vinegar is commonly defined as a liquid containing a specified amount of

acetic acid and water, it is especially fit for human consumption. (Perilla, 2017)

According to Britannica (2024), vinegar is a sour liquid that is made by

11
fermentation of countless dilute alcoholic liquids into a liquid that contains acetic

acid. Vinegar is one of the oldest fermented products and its history dates back to

around 2000 BC. According to Tesfaye et al. (2002), it is produced from different

raw materials from several agricultural origin which contains starch and sugars.

According to Wilson (2020), vinegar is an essential component in food

preservation, and it is utilized in several canning recipes beyond pickling. The

reason behind using vinegar for preservation is straightforward. The vinegars'

acetic acid raises the acidity of the vegetables or substances, killing any microbes

and effectively preserving it by preventing rotting. Vinegars' acetic acid lessens the

pH level of foods, wherein it inhabits the instant growth of microorganisms in food

preventing from easy spoilage and slows down the decomposition processes.

According to the University of Missouri (2023), white and cider vinegars are best

in terms of preservation as they are standardized to 5%. Although majority of

people use purified white vinegar since it won't discolor the vegetables, one can

also use apple cider vinegar, which has a stronger effect in terms of flavors.

Conceptual Framework

Shown below is the schematic diagram conveying the relationship between

variables. The independent variable is the cornstarch and the dependent variable is

the Titanium Dioxide and Glycerin.

Input Process Output

Cornstarch Mixing cornstarch Cornstarch-based 12

and water along correction fluid
with titanium
dioxide and ethanol
 Figure 1. A schematic diagram illustrating the flow of the study.

The input is cornstarch, which is the main component of the study and will be

used as a thickening agent in producing a cornstarch-based correction fluid. In this

case, the researchers will use different kinds of commercialized cornstarch to

determine the exact amount of cornstarch used as a thickener. Moreover, the

process involves the application of methods that the cornstarch will undergo,

wherein the researchers will mix the cornstarch, water, titanium dioxide, and

ethanol. Overall, the expected output of this study is to produce a cornstarch-based

as an alternative correction fluid.

Definition of Terms

Alternative. will be commonly used in the description of the product for

cornstarch-based correction fluid has some differences from traditional correction

fluids.

Cornstarch. will be the specific type of thickening agent that will be used in

developing correction fluid, primary component, or base material.

13
 Correction Fluid. refers to the output of a correction fluid based on

cornstarch

Ethanol (Isopropyl Alcohol). refers to the flammable, colorless, chemical

compound that will be utilized as a component used to rapid the drying time of the

correction fluid.

Titanium dioxide. refers to the inorganic compound, commonly in powder

form, which will be utilized as white pigment in producing the correction fluid.

14
 CHAPTER 3

MATERIALS AND METHOD

The detailed methodology utilized to conduct the research is described in

this chapter. It covers the following topics: raw materials preparation, material and

ingredient lists, research instrument, study area, respondents, research design, and

study treatment. It also outlines the methodology that will be applied to address the

study’s issues.

Research Design

This study will utilize a true experimental research design. This will help to

investigate variables in terms of their effects on effectiveness, performance, and

usability. The research design for this study would likely involve conducting

experiments to evaluate the performance and usability of cornstarch as an

alternative correction fluid.

Subject of the Study

The subject of this study is cornstarch which can be found anywhere in the

Philippines since it is made of normal corn and 25% amylose and 75%

15
amylopectin. Making correction fluid using cornstarch where it will be tested based

on coverage, and rapid drying time. The cornstarch-based correction fluid will be

estimated time of 10 seconds before proceeding to the next step.

Locale of the Study

The researchers’ study will be conducted in Southern Christian College

Midsayap, North Cotabato, which will be observed and under supervision. With

this facility, the researchers will be able properly conduct the experimental study.

This will assist the researchers in determining issues, crafting a hypothesis,

identifying variables, and more.

Research Instrument

The study will utilize an observation sheet to gather the data in the

determining the effectiveness of the cornstarch as an alternative correction fluid.

List of Materials

 Container with a Sealable Lid: For storing the correction fluid. A small

bottle with an applicator brush (like a nail polish bottle) works well.

 Mixing Bowl: Will serve as a container and where the substances will be

mixed in.

 Stirring rod: For mixing liquid substances

 Funnel: Used to transfer liquid substances into small-mouthed receptacles.

16
  Measuring cup: will be used to measuring liquid substances

 Measuring spoon: will be used in measuring solid or/and liquid substances.

Ingredients

 15 grams of Cornstarch

 2 ml of Tap Water

 10 grams of Titanium dioxide powder

 1 ml Ethanol (Isopropyl alcohol)

 1 ml White vinegar

 10 ml of Pure liquid glycerin

Treatments of the Study

Ingredients Treatment 1 Treatment 2

Treatment 3

Cornstarch 16 g 12 g 15 g

Tap Water 15 ml 10 ml 2 ml

Titanium 2g 5g 10 g

Dioxide

Ethanol 5 ml 7 ml 1 ml

Vinegar 2 ml 2 ml 1 ml

Glycerin 2 ml 5 ml 10 ml

Table 1.1 Treatment Plans of Cornstarch-based Correction Fluid

17
 General Procedure

Step 1: Gathering and Preparation of Materials. The researchers will be

gathering:

1.1. The 15 grams of cornstarch, using a 1 ½ measuring spoon.

1.2. 2 ml of water using a 1 cup measuring cup.

1.3. 10 grams of titanium dioxide using a 1 ½ measuring spoon.

1.4. 1 ml ethanol using ¼ measuring spoon.

1.5. 1 ml of vinegar using a ¼ measuring cups

1.6. Gather the mixing bowls

1.7. Stirring utensils

1.8. An empty container where the cornstarch-based will be placed.

Step 2: Executing the first experimental group. The researcher will then start the

procedure by:

1.1. Get the mixing bowl and separate the dry and wet ingredients.

1.2. Put the 15 grams of cornstarch along with the 10 grams of titanium dioxide

1.3. Carefully put the 2 ml water to slowly dissolve the dry mixture.

1.4. After putting the water, put the 1 ml ethanol, 1 ml white vinegar, and;

1.5. Lastly put the 10 ml pure glycerin.

1.6. Continuously mix the solvent to get the right consistency.

18
Step 3: Executing the second experimental group. The researcher will start and

observe the first treatment. After the mixture was created, the researchers will then;

1.1. Apply the first treatment mixture in a paper.

1.2. Observe the small amount of solvent in terms of time in a paper.

1.3. Observe then the mixture in the paper according to its consistency.

1.4. And after observing the mixture, observe its dryness.

Step 4: Executing the third experimental group. After executing the second

experimental group, the researchers will execute the third treatment and observe the

same process.

Step 5: Adding optional additives. The researchers will observe if there are any

more conflicts regarding the mixture and add additional ingredients to perfectly

formulate the solvent.

Step 6: Transfer the cornstarch-based to an empty container. The researchers

will carefully pour the final mixture into a sealable container. Ensure the container

is airtight to maintain quality and avoid contamination.

Step 7: Observe the cornstarch-based. The researchers will evaluate the

effectiveness of each experimental group based on the color and consistency of the

cornstarch-based mixtures. The researchers will focus on observations of the

quality of the mixture after it is transferred to a container.

19
 Data Gathering

Seeking of permission to conduct the data gathering process

Gathering the data

Interpret and analyze the data gathered

Write the conclusion of the study

Figure 2. Flow chart of the Data Gathering Procedure

Step 1: Seeking Of Permission to Conduct the Data Gathering Process

Before the researchers do the data gathering, the researchers will send a permission letter

to Mr. Roque G. Ciasico, MMath, the senior high school principal, for approval to allow

us to conduct the study.

Step 2: Gather the data

20
After the letter is approved by the principal, the researchers will proceed to gather the

data through various tests to achieve the objective of the study. The researchers will

record every finding in an observation sheet throughout the data-gathering procedure.

Step 3: Interpret and analyze the data gathered

After conducting various tests, the researchers will organize the data gathered. The data

collected will be analyzed through Inferential Statistics Analysis. This step will be further

explained at the next part.

Step 4: Write the conclusion of the Study

After the researchers analyze the data gathered, researchers will craft a conclusion based

on the analyzed data.

Data Analysis

The data will be gathered, computed, and will be summarize by the researchers

that will be obtained by using statistical method, specifically, One Way ANOVA and

descriptive statistic process. One way ANOVA will be utilized to seize if there are any

differences in the mean number in cornstarch-based precision: performance and usability

of correction fluids in one day observation in a three experimental group. The analyzing,

summarization, and systematize will be using descriptive analysis, where it includes the

calculation of the mean, media, standard deviation, and the uses of charts and graphs to

visualize the result wherein the study will effectively be summarizing the characteristics

of the data set.

21
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