"Ramboard" Utilization of Rambutan Peelings as an Alternative Material for Production of Boards

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

This study was conducted to determine whether the Rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum) peelings could be used as raw materials for making a corkboard replacement. Corkboard is widely used in offices and school for different purposes. In offices, they are used to post or tack announcements. In some establishments, they are used to advertise products. Teachers also use the corkboard to display pupils’ works and other relevant information and announcements for the learners. Due to its high cost, the researchers wished to find an alternative material to replace the corkboard.

METHODS

"Ramboard" is made from the cork-like peelings of rambutan produced by the researchers into a quality board. Three main steps in Ramboard preparation were: the boiling process for removing tannic acid and sap, increasing its elasticity and permitting it to be flattened; the forming process, adding a starch solution as a binder; and the drying process, exposing the board to sunlight. Rambutan peelings were gathered, washed and boiled until they soften. The samples were drained and ground to absorb the binding capacity of the starch solution. The starch solutions for each set-up were cooked and added to the ground rambutan peelings and mixed thoroughly, then placed into the molders and exposed under the heat of the sun to dry.

RESULTS

Three set-ups were made to find out which would be the best product. Respondents were selected for the Acceptability test and the results showed that set-up C with a mixture of 200 g. of rambutan peelings, 20 g of sawdust and 150 g. starch showed acceptability in all observable characteristics such as appearance, texture, cellular construction, and penetrability.

DISCUSSIONS

Based on the results of the investigation, the researcher concluded that the study was very important and relevant. It accomplished the purpose of making good use of waste materials into something useful and it also fostered the conservation of nature. It is very earth friendly. Doing the investigatory project developed the skills and creativity of science pupils and, at the same time, reduced the problem on waste disposal.