DURABILITY OF IPOMOEA AQUATICA (KANGKONG) BAG

Abstract

Plastic bags are major contributors to global plastic pollution, harming ecosystems, wildlife, and natural environments. In response, eco-friendly and reusable bags have gained popularity due to their biodegradability and use of natural materials that can decompose naturally. Ipomoea aquatica, also known as Kangkong in the Philippines, is a problematic plant due to its ability to thrive in various weather conditions, outcompeting other crops, and absorbing heavy metals from polluted water sources. This study aims to evaluate the durability of Kangkong as a material for bag production, identify the optimal formulation, and determine if significant differences exist among the different formulations. The study employed a quantitative research method and an experimental research design. A scale was utilized to measure the weight capacity of the Kangkong-based bags, while a timer was used to assess the water resistance by measuring how long the bags could withstand exposure to water. Three trials were conducted for each test across three different formulations of Kangkong bags: K1, K2, and K3. The results showed that K3 exhibited the highest mean weight capacity and water resistance, making it the optimum formulation among the three. Statistical analysis revealed a significant difference in both weight capacity and water resistance among the three formulations. In conclusion, the durability of the bags increased with the addition of more Kangkong fiber. The findings suggest that Kangkong can be a viable material for bag production. However, further research is needed to assess the long-term durability of Kangkong bags in real-world conditions and to evaluate their overall environmental impact.