D'BiOStraw (Dalandan Biodegradable Organic Straw): a Construction and Evaluation of a Biodegradable Straw using Dalandan Peel

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Over the past decades, plastics have been used all over the world for different purposes such as plastic bags, bottles, straws and other personal uses. But high plastic production harms the environment, affecting every one of us. This study aimed to develop a biodegradable straw using Dalandan (Citrusmicrocarpa) peel and to evaluate its effectiveness as a replacement for drinking straw. Furthermore, introducing D'BiOStraw will reduce plastic waste in our country.

METHODS

The researchers used a quantitative approach and an experimental research design. This study contains six phases to the construction and evaluation of D'BiOStraw. Dalandan peel and its pith water were boiled in low heat to collect the pectin present. For the construction, cornstarch, glycerin, vinegar and the extracted pectin were mixed in a low heat pan. It was molded and a day was needed to dryD'BiOStraw. The researchers determined if it was acceptable in solubility, capillarity, appearance, odor and texture test and it was found out that it was acceptable in terms of its physical appearance. Lastly, the biodegradability test was applied to find out if there is a significant difference between D'BiOStrawand commercial biodegradable straw in term of its biodegradability.

RESULTS

Results showed thatD'BiOStrawis acceptable in terms of solubility, appearance, odor and texture. Capillarity test showed significant difference in favor of commercial biodegradable straw with a t-value of 6.97 that is greater than the critical value of 2.78. Biodegradability test showed that there is a significant difference in favor ofD'BiOStrawas it degrades faster than commercial straw since the t-value of 3.873 exceeds the critical value of 3.182at 0.05 level of significance.

DISCUSSIONS

Based on the results shown above, it is proven that D'BiOStrawhas better biodegradability than commercial biodegradable straw and is acceptable in terms of solubility, appearance, odor and texture. However, D'BiO Strawfailed in the capillarity test to commercial biodegradable straw, as the latter has better structure in capillarity as a straw. On the other side, the researchers concluded that the commercial straw can be replaced by D'BiOStraw to lessen plastic waste within our country.