POMELO PEEL EXTRACT AND ACTIVATED CARBON INSECT REPELLENT AIR DEODORIZER

Abstract

Insects can cause allergic reactions, skin irritations, and serious illnesses through their bites or stings. Traditional chemical repellents, while effective, often contain substances harmful to human health and the environment. To address this issue, researchers are exploring natural alternatives, such as combining pomelo extract with activated carbon to create an air deodorizer that also repels insects. This study employed a quantitative-experimental research design, utilizing a purposive sampling technique to select participants. A t-test was applied to determine significant differences between two respondent groups regarding the acceptability of pomelo extract and activated carbon as an alternative insect repellent air deodorizer. The evaluated aspects included ingredients, procedural methodology, cost-effectiveness, fragrance, and presentation. Data were collected using a questionnaire administered to two groups: five chemical engineers and fifteen housewives. The study aimed to evaluate the acceptability of a pomelo extract and activated carbon-based air deodorizer among two groups: chemical engineers and housewives. The assessment focused on five aspects: ingredients, procedural methodology, cost-effectiveness, fragrance, and presentation.​  Chemical Engineers:  Mean Score: 3.35​ Variance: 0.07​ t-Computed Value: 1.521​ Degrees of Freedom: 18​ t-Critical Value: 2.101​ Since the t-computed value (1.521) is less than the t-critical value (2.101), we fail to reject the null hypothesis, indicating no significant difference between the assessments of chemical engineers and housewives. Therefore, the chemical engineers' assessment is considered acceptable.​  Housewives:  Mean Score: 3.15​ Variance: 0.012​ t-Computed Value: 1.521​  Degrees of Freedom: 18​ t-Critical Value: 2.101​ Similarly, the t-computed value (1.521) is less than the t-critical value (2.101), leading to the same conclusion. The housewives' assessment is also deemed acceptable.​  Statistical Considerations:  The small sample sizes—five chemical engineers and fifteen housewives—are below the recommended minimum of 16 participants per group to achieve adequate statistical power. This limitation suggests that the study may not have sufficient power to detect significant differences, and the results should be interpreted with caution. To enhance the pomelo extract and activated carbon air deodorizer, respondents provided several recommendations:​ Remove Activated Carbon: Eliminating activated carbon could improve the product's appearance and presentation.​  Use Additional Molds: Employing various molds can create different shapes, making the product more visually appealing.​ Find Alternative Solidifying Agents: Identifying other chemicals to solidify the deodorizer may improve its quality and performance.​ Source Pomelo Peels from Local Vendors: Collecting pomelo peels from wet markets or food vendors, rather than purchasing whole fruits, could be more cost-effective.​  Innovate as Scented Products: Developing scented patches or candles using pomelo extract can diversify product offerings.​ Supporting Research and Ideas: Pomelo Peel Utilization: Pomelo peels contain bioactive compounds, including aroma-active volatiles, flavonoids, and phenolic acids, making them suitable for value-added products like scented candles. ​Citrus Peel Candles: Using citrus peels, such as oranges, as natural candle holders is a common practice. By extracting the fruit's flesh and filling the hollowed peel with wax, one can create eco-friendly candles with a pleasant aroma.​  Pomelo Peel Essential Oil: Pomelo peel essential oil has demonstrated antioxidant and anti-melanogenic properties, indicating its potential in cosmetic and therapeutic applications.  Pomelo Peel Activated Carbon: Pomelo peel-derived activated carbon has shown promise in wastewater treatment due to its high adsorption capacity, suggesting potential in environmental applications.