The ability of Lemon Grass (Cymbopogon citratus) Extract to Degrade Polystyrene Foam

Abstract

Polystyrene foam is a widely-used, petroleum-based plastic. It is considered to be non-biodegradable and is resistant to photolysis. Due to its lightweight, large amounts of Polystyrene foam float and accumulate along coastlines and canals. This study aimed to degrade Polystyrene with the use of Lemon Grass (Cymbopogon citratus) extract. Previous studies have already proved the degrading factor of a monoterpene called d-limonene on Polystyrene foam. This research has experimented on the ability of Lemon Grass to produce the said monoterpene through steam distillation. As the distilling process ended, Polystyrene foam samples measuring 1 x 1 x 1 cm were set in amber bottles containing the extracts obtained. The samples fizzed and later on were completely degraded. The researchers then tested the different extraneous factors that may hinder the degrading ability of the extracts and the results of the said tests showed that the health and state of Lemon Grass interfered with its ability to degrade Polystyrene foam. Results of the statistical analysis (independent t-test) support the research hypothesis that the extracts acquired from the stalks of the Lemon Grass will degrade the Polystyrene foam samples in a faster rate as compared to the extracts acquired from the leaves as the stalks contain more of the active constituent, d-limonene. The results presented in this study offer knowledge about the sole purpose of Lemon Grass itself, regarding adding to possible solutions to the waste management of Polystyrene foam.