TALISAY (Terminalia catappa) LEAF FIBERS AS

A WOOD-FREE PAPER SUBSTITUTE

A Thesis Presented to the

Faculty of College of Teacher Education
Senior High School Department
Ramon Magsaysay Technological University
Iba, Zambales

In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements of Research in Daily Life 2

by:
Angelo E. Plandano
Divina N. Fogata
Gerimy Cantillo
Lyca Mae Soliven
Rachel Joy D. Bajado
Robin Jay B. Battad
Roieanne Mae C. Ong
Trixie A. Anajao
Wencie Y. Feliciano

March 2018
 Republic of the Philippines
Ramon Magsaysay Technological University
Iba, Zambales

COLLEGE OF TEACHER EDUCATION

SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL DEPARTMENT

The study hereto attached entitled

Leaf Fibers of Talisay (Terminalia catappa) Component

for Paper Production

has been prepared and submitted by Angelo E. Plandano, Divina N. Fogata, Gerimy
Cantillo, Lyca Mae Soliven, Rachel Joy D. Bajado, Robin Jay B. Battad, Roieanne
Mae C. Ong, Trixie A. Anajao, and Wencie Y. Feliciano

who are hereby recommended for oral examination.

Anne Rose L. Calimlim, RN, MAN

Adviser

Approved by the Committee of Oral Examiners

Arra Q. Abaniel, MS Phy

Chairperson

Katherine B. Parangat, Ed. D. Rosa D. Devera, RN, MAN

Member Member

Accepted and approved as a requirement for the Academic Track

SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING, and MATHEMATICS (STEM)

APPROVED:

March 13, 2018 HELEN A. MAGNO, MaEd.

Date of Oral Defense Principal, Senior High School

ii
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The researchers want to express their sincerest gratitude and appreciation for all

those who generously and willingly shared their time, support, and presence in the

preparation and completion of this study:

Mrs. Arra Q. Abaniel, the chairperson of the Research advisory committee, Dr.

Katherine B. Parangat, Ms. Rosa D. Devera, the members of the advisory committee,

thank you for the corrections and recommendations to further enhance this study. Thank

you for the patience, motivation, and immense knowledge that you generously shared to us.

Mrs. Cecile M. Charcos, our first half Research adviser, for the support,

guidance, and encouragement in making this study.

Ms. Anne Rose L. Calimlim, our second half Research adviser, for the long

patience and being with us throughout the study, who strongly believed in our

competitiveness, and provided insight and expertise that greatly assisted this research.

Also our deepest appreciation to our families and guardians, who gave support

financially and emotionally, our inspiration to keep on striving, our source of strength

and will to continue, thank you very much.

And to our classmates and friends who undyingly motivated us through hard

times and downfalls.

We cannot stress enough how thankful we are to have you, for it would not be this

fulfilling without your help.

iii
 DEDICATION

We dedicate this research study

First of all, to GOD ALMIGHTY OUR CREATOR

for providing us all the knowledge and spiritual assistance,

that lead to the fulfilment of this work,

who never ceases to love us and for giving us continuous guidance and support.

To our families,

Who have been our light through darkness,

Our constant source of strength, motivation, and reason to strive

The masters behind our success,

In you we found the love we will always long to feel.

To our community

The very reason we aim to make this research successful

Whom, in the near future, we wish to celebrate with the fulfillment of this study.

And to our friends,

Thank you for the all the comfort, hard times are almost over.

Brace yourselves for more in the upcoming years.

Thanks to all of you for always reminding us that:

When nothing is certain, everything is possible.

Group 1

iv
 ABSTRACT

Even when the world has ascended to digital world, people still find a written

document more official than the files stored in the computer. However, the cost of the

production in order to match such demand is destruction of our environment - losing

60,000 square kilometers of trees globally in one year. This prompted the researchers to

assess the possibility of producing writing paper substitute from freshly fallen Talisay

trees. Talisay paper was compared to commercially available Manila paper in terms of its

microscopic fibers and tensile strength. As a result, in microscopic fibers under

compound light microscope, Talisay paper did not match the Manila paper’s trait but

shows enough compactness to be a paper substitute. Meanwhile in tensile strength,

tearing force of three samples with varying thickness of 0.13mm, 0.5mm, and 1mm are

tested respectively. Sample 1, Manila paper got the lowest tearing force of 9.43 N,

sample 2 with 11.37 N, and sample 3 with 13.93 N. Using a force sensor, Talisay paper

surpassed the typical tearing force of Manila Paper, thus, making the Talisay leaf fibers

effective as wood-free paper substitute. Findings suggest that Talisay leaf fibers are

effective as wood-free paper substitute. It is also recommended by the researchers to

improve the procedure of production, upgrade the color of paper, use different binding

agent, and explore other leaves in order to identify the underlying mechanisms and

further tests and enhance the paper quality.

Keywords: Talisay Leaf fibers, Paper, Wood-free paper substitute

v
 TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
TITLE PAGE i
APPROVAL SHEET ii
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT iii
DEDICATION iv
ABSTRACT v
TABLE OF CONTENTS vi
LIST OF TABLES AND FIGURES vii
LIST OF APPENDICES ix
CHAPTER
I. INTRODUCTION

Background of the study 1

Statement of the Problem 3
Significance of the study 4
Scope and Limitations 4
Definition of Terms 5

II. REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDY

Related Literature 6
Related Studies 9

III. METHODOLOGY AND PROCEDURES

Research Design 16
Research Instrument 16
Materials 17
Procedure 18
Statistical Treatment 25

vi
IV. PRESENTATION, INTERPRETATION AND
ANALYSIS OF DATA

Microscopic Fibers 26
Tensile Strength 29

V. SUMMARY OF FINDINGS, CONCLUSION, AND

RECOMMENDATION

Summary of the Findings 34

Conclusions 35
Recommendations 36

REFERENCES 37

LIST OF TABLES

Table Title Page

1 Materials 17

2 Thickness of papers and the required Tearing-Force 32

LIST OF FIGURES

Figure Title Page

1 Collected Talisay Leaves 18

2 Shredded Talisay Leaves 19

3 Boiling of Talisay Leaves 19

4 Blending Talisay Leaves 20

vii
5 Boiling of Corn starch 21

6 Blending Talisay Leaves with boiled corn starch 22

7 Molding the pulp 23

8 Let the Sheet Dry 24

9 Microscopic Fibers of Manila Paper 27

10 Microscopic Fibers of Talisay Paper 28

11 Tensile Strength Sampe 1 Manila Paper 29

12 Tensile Strength Sample 2 Talisay made from 30

5tbsp of corn-starch and 750mL of Talisay pulp

13 Tensile Strength Sample 3 Talisay made from 31

10tbsp of corn-starch and 750mL of Talisay

14 Microscopic Fibers of Manila Paper 41

15 Microscopic Fibers of Talisay Paper 41

16 Tensile Strength of Sample 1 42

17 Tensile Strength of Sample 2 42

18 Tensile Strength of Sample 3 43

19 Writing Appropriateness of Sample 1 43

20 Writing Appropriateness of Sample 2 44

21 Writing Appropriateness of Sample 3 44

viii
 List of Appendices

Appendix Title Page No.

1 Documentation 41

2 Curriculum Vitae 45

ix
 CHAPTER 1

INTRODUCTION

In this chapter the further research on the topic, problem, beneficiary, objective

and significance of the study are shown and stated.

Background of the Study

Of all the writing materials mankind has employed down through the ages, paper

has become the most widely used around the world. Paper, according to Parsons (2005) is

a matted or felted sheet of fibers, deriving its name from a marsh plant papyrus (Cyperus

papyrus). Its history can be traced from 3D millennium B.C. through the extensive use of

papyrus as a writing material in the ancient world. Besides the primary use for writing

and printing purposes or as a medium for the communication of the printed word, paper

can be readily engineered to perform a great variety of jobs, especially in the packaging

and industrial fields, the ones highly responsible for the high consumption of paper in the

leading industrial countries of the world (Uses and Grades, 2005 p. 382).

The most widely known paper production is the use of wood. According to

Conley (2015), China has maintained the top spot for both demand and production of

total paper and board since 2009, accounting for 25% of world demand and 26% of

global production of total paper and board in 2014, with United States even though has

fewer than five percent of the world’s population, remains in second place, devising 48.4

million tons in 2014 in terms of pulp production. At present, the Philippines has twenty-
 2

four (24) non-integrated paper mills with a total production capacity of 1.3 million tons

of paper and paperboard per year (The Philippine paper industry, 2011).

With partial contribution to the unwavering cutting down of trees, this resulted to

a statistic which shows that the world consumption of paper has grown 400 percent in the

last 40 years. Now nearly 4 billion trees or 35 percent of the total trees cut around the

world are used in paper industries on every continent. Approximately 80,000 to 160,000

trees are cut down daily worldwide. This estimate is based on the Global Forest Resource

Assessment, most recently conducted in 2015, which also estimates that Earth lost around

60,000 square kilometers of trees globally in one year.

Moreover, it also includes consumption of large amount of energy. The lignin

contained by woods is responsible for the load of works included in the process, thus

accounting for greater energy consumption. Unlike through the use of leaves, it is

concluded to be more energy-saving and eco-friendly. Furthermore, leaves need shorter

span of time to mature while trees take an average of 3 to 5 years to grow back and

mature. Due to this, finding non-wood row materials in papermaking industry has been

given more attention. Non-wood plants are one of the alternatives for pulp and paper

utilizing. Several researches used mango leaves, banana leaves, and other fibrous tree

leaves.

Nowadays our lives revolve around papers with a dazzling array of paper products

available to todays’ consumers. Even when the world has ascended to digital world,

people still find a written document more official than the files stored in the computer.

This led the researchers to the idea of tree-less paper, specifically the leaf fibers of

Talisay as component for paper production. Since several conducted studies had been
 3

confused on parallel venation leaves or monocots, this research aimed to prove the

effectiveness of leaf fibers of Talisay as component for paper production despite having

the characteristics of dicot and hard fibres. Although never it has been scrutinized for the

parameters of paper quality, the abundance of freshly fallen leaves of Talisay in the

campus of Ramon Magsaysay Technological University has also been the very reason

why the researchers chose this topic with an aim to further expand the wonder of

Terminalia catappa.

Statement of the Problem

The purpose of this study is to develop an alternative resource on paper

production by using freshly fallen leaves of Talisay. The researchers used leaves instead

of the usual raw materials in making paper in order to reduce the amount of trees that are

being cut down to use in paper making.

Specifically, the study was conducted to answer the following questions:

 How effective is the paper made out of Talisay as writing material

compared to Low Price Manila Paper in terms of:

a. Microscopic Fibers of Talisay Paper and Manila Paper; and

b. Tensile Strength considering the varying thickness of two Talisay

Paper due to corn-starch proportion to grams of leaf pulp and Manila paper?
 4

Significance of the Study

In this study, the researchers conducted an experimental study wherein they used

Talisay leaves as the major component in the usual paper making process instead of trees.

It is important to conserve the environment, as well as make a product that is competent

and cost-effective. Specifically, this study will be helpful and significant to the following:

Teachers – they can benefit in this study because they can use it for making visual aids

in the class.

Students – they can benefit in this study because buying paper from the stores is quite

expensive compared to these experimental sheets.

Community – they can also benefit from this study because the utilization of waste

leaves will reduce the amount of solid waste in the campus and save the immediate

communities from danger of flooding during heavy rains.

Entrepreneurs – they can benefit from this study because they can use this study and

produce their own paper and sell it to the community.

Future Researchers – they can benefit in this study because this can serve as an

additional supplement to their future studies. While the study focuses on a single type of

leaf, future researches can develop further improvements.

Scope and Limitations

This research study assessed the possibility of producing writing paper

alternatives from freshly fallen leaves of Talisay trees available in the campus of Ramon

Magsaysay Technological University, Iba, Zambales.

 5

This study only explored the efficiency of Talisay leaf fibres as substitutions of

paper production. The researchers used only one kind of tree called Talisay (Terminalia

catappa) for the sample of leaf fibres. There were no other bonding agents used as

additives aside from the corn starch. The places where the leaves are taken, the other

process of pulping the leaves, other factors that are not mentioned above are not part of

the research.

Definition of Terms

Leaf Fibre – the fibre obtained from leaves and is used mainly for paper production as

wood pulp alternatives.

Leaf Pulp – a soft, wet substance made by blending the Talisay leaves.

Paper – a thin sheet made from the wood pulp or other fibrous substances that is

commonly used for writing, drawing, or printing on, or as wrapping material.

Paper Alternative – it refers to a substitute to typical paper made out of wood pulp.

Pulping – refers to the process of turning the Terminalia catappa leaf fibers into a soft,

wet substance.

Talisay – refers to a large tropical tree (Terminalia Catappa) that is commonly found in

the Philippines.

Talisay Paper – the term coined by the researcher as the name of their product.

Wood Pulp – refers to a wood that has been changed into a soft mass that can be used for

making paper.
 6

CHAPTER 2

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES

This chapter includes the researcher’s exploration of related literature and studies

on the effectiveness of Acacia, Terminalia, and other leaf fibers in non-existing and

existing researches.

Related Literature

Approximately one out of every three trees harvested today ends up as pulp for

paper products. Unfortunately trees from old growth forests are still often felled to meet

the demand. According to Conley (2015), the United States has fewer than five percent of

the world’s population, yet consumes more than thirty percent of the world’s paper.

Paper-based manufacturing is largely dependent on wood as its dominant fibre resources

for any pulp and paper-based industries, accounting for 90% of the world fibre

utilization. The global consumption of paper is around 400 million tons, cutting down

about 7.2 billion trees to fulfill the demand of paper as writing, printing, wrapping and

packaging purposes.

As significant climate change has become a global threat, the alternative resources

must be searched with an aim that it offers less adverse impact on the environment, more

economical and easily accessible. In addition, the shortage of wood resources and

continuous increasing demand of paper-based products, the non-wood plants are good
 7

candidates to be explored as alternative resources for pulp and paper-based productions.

This is due to their advantages such as short growth cycles and low lignin content which

in return will reduce the energy and chemicals consumptions during the pulping process

(Kassim, 2015).

According to Bloch (2007), the way of the future is totally tree-free paper and

blends – from other forms of waste and made from plants that grow incredibly fast, thrive

in poor conditions and allow for a more resource friendly and less energy intensive

method of paper production. While tree-free paper isn’t yet a mainstream product

generally available from stationers Bloch also stated a list of tested leaves which includes

Bagasse, Mango, Banana, Cotton, Jute, Tamarind, Coconut, and even elephant waste, a

considerably organic waste.

All types of paper are made from pulp containing vegetable, mineral or manmade

fibers that form a matted or felted sheet on a screen when moisture is removed (San Juan,

2011). As for Talisay, Terminalia is a genus of Combretaceous plants widely distributed

in tropical and subtropical regions (Mininel, 2014). It is also known by several common

names like Indian almond, Tropical Almond, and Talisai.

Although the minimum fiber length necessary to produce acceptable paper

strength properties is dependent on many factors, fiber lengths are not unequivocally

related to paper strength properties (Saha et al, 1997). Different fiber lengths are

desirable for different properties in paper. For example, longer fiber length is desirable

for strength properties in paper, but they tend to bunch together and as a result do not

provide good formation. Shorter fibers on the other hand provide excellent formation.

The use of non-wood fibers in pulp and paper industry is fraught with problems. Right
 8

from supply of raw material to the properties of finished paper, majority of non-wood

raw material has proven to be economically inferior to wood. But over the last few years,

technological breakthrough in almost all the fields of papermaking have made non-wood

more competitive with wood as a raw material for papermaking (Chandra and Hammett,

2014). The increased use of natural fibers will cause a positive impact on famers and

smallholders in the global context.

Talisay Leaf Fibers as Main Component for Paper Making

The observed chemical composition and morphology of crops indicate the

suitability for use as fiber sources for the paper industry. In order to study the non-wood

fiber morphological, leaves are observed under Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM).

By this process, images can be undertaken under several magnifications to observe the

content, arrangement, and compactness of leaf fibers (Zawawi et al, 2014).

According to Santos (2016), this fruit has a considerable energy value based on

the analytical results of its lipid content. Its fiber content contributes to enhance the

functional properties of the fruit. Morphological characteristics show a spongy-like

structure with dispersion of starch granules and high concentration of fiber bundles,

confirming the results of the chemical composition analysis. The thermo gravimetric

behaviour exhibited by this pulp when submitted to progressive temperature increase

under dynamic air atmosphere shows that this raw material has great potential for

industrial use due to its high absorption rate of water soluble and/or lipid-based

compounds, allowing its use as a dietary complement or supplement ingredient in food

products. Although never it has been scrutinized as a main component in paper making,
 9

the result of its morphological surface analysis shows that it is effective enough to be

used as one.

Corn Starch as Binding Agent

As stated by Shailendra (2012), binders are agents employed to impart

cohesiveness to the granules. Also according to Sanne (2017) the addition of a binding

agent can increase the strength of the paper as well as decrease the linting and dusting.

Among other materials starch has been used as a binding agent. However, in Super-

Calendared (SC) paper making, the calendaring of the paper is done at a load of 100-350

kN/m. Starch makes the paper brittle and it can break at such heavy loads. Starch also

makes the paper denser already prior to calendaring. Therefore, no starch or small

additions (1-2 kg/tonne dry paper) is used in SC paper making. Corn starch is well known

for their binding and disintegrating properties but some other starches like onset starch

and banana starch can also be used as binding agent. Starch is also used as fillers. Starch

is widely used as thickening, stabilizing, gelling and/or filling agent in many food

applications and it considered as the most used excipient in pharmaceutical formulations.

It has many pharmaceutical applications and it is used mainly in tablets as filler, binder or

disintegrator. Thus, corn starch is considered to have good potency as binding agent.

Related Studies

These are the significant studies which provide important viewpoints for

establishing prior knowledge and information needed to fully comprehend a7nd

appreciate the factuality of this research. Demand for paper today is increasing as
 10

technological progress increases. This challenges the opinions that the progress of

information technology will lead to less use of paper and a paperless world. With regards

to this situation, many alternatives have been introduced to replace the main sources of

wood in pulp and paper industry (Yusof et al, 2015).

Making Paper from Plants

Renewable and easy to find fibers like cattail leaves, iris leaves and agricultural

waste like corn husks are perfect for making paper and provide good results for

beginners. There are several steps to papermaking, the first of which is harvesting. The

same plant can yield fibers that vary in color and consistency depending on when and

where they are harvested. The second step is cooking. Fibers need to be cooked in an

alkali solution for three to twenty hours, depending on the variety. After cooking, the

fibers must be thoroughly rinsed - a process that takes much more time and water than

you would think. After rinsing, the fibers are beaten into a pulp. Because most leaf and

grass fibers area easy to beat by hand, or even with a kitchen blender, they are good

choices for papermakers without access to a Hollander beater. After beating, the fibers

are floated in a vat of water and scooped up onto a papermaking mold in a thin layer.

From there, they are transferred to a cloth or wool sheet and stacked in a post. The post is

then pressed to squeeze out water and promote bonding between the fibers. For the

simplest drying method, the cloth with the still-damp paper still attached can be hung on

a clothes line. There are any numbers of other drying techniques that yield different

surface textures.
 11

Harvesting Fibers

According to Hiebert (2010), harvesting at the end of growing season or during

dormancy will yield the most papermaking fiber. Letting the plant naturally decompose

in the field to make processing easier should be considered. For example, herbaceous

basts such as milkweed and nettles (Urtica lyalli) will start to decompose if left in the

field over the winter. Most fibers can be harvested during more than one season. Paper

made from fiber harvested in the spring may look different from paper made from the

same fiber harvested in the fall. Young nettles harvested in the spring make a green

paper, but if they are harvested in the fall, the resulting paper is brown. The age of the

plant, soil, environmental conditions such as air quality and rainfall, and geographic

location of the plant will also affect the fiber quality and the look of the sheet.

There are three main types of plant fiber used in papermaking: bast fiber, leaf

fiber, and grass fiber. What follows is a description and instructions for harvesting each

type. The fibrous, inner bark of trees or shrubs is called the bast. The bast fiber is located

in the stem and branches between the outer bark and the woody core. There are three

types of bast fiber: woody, herbaceous, and petiole. Woody bast is found in shrubs like

blackberry, vines like kudzu (Pueraria lobata), and trees such as paper mulberry and

willow (Salix spp.); herbaceous bast is found in non-woody annuals and perennials such

as nettles and milkweed (Asclepias speciosa); petiole bast is found in the leaf stalks and

stems of banana plants like manila hemp (Musa textilis).

Cutting a shoot of a tree, shrub, or vine and look at it in cross section, you will

find access tothe bast fiber (inner bark) between the outer black bark and the woody core.

To collect the bast fiber, choose shoots or branches of trees that are one-half to one inch
 12

in diameter. Smaller shoots will have less fiber and larger might be tough to process. Cut

the shoots at a forty-five degree angle near the base or just above a bud, leaving the main

plant intact so that it can continue to grow. The angle is important because it will aid later

in the stripping process. Where it is cut will affect how the plant continues to grow. Many

papermakers harvest bast fibers while they are pruning. In order to have enough bast fiber

to make paper, at least five or six branches which are five to six feet long are needed.

This will yield approximately one pound of bast fiber, which will produce about thirty

sheets of paper that are 8-1/2” x 11”. Strip leaves and twigs from the branches.

Herbaceous bast is collected in a similar fashion to the bast of trees, by cutting the stalks

at an angle. Annuals like hollyhock (Alcea rosea) and okra (Hibiscus esculentus) can be

pulled up by the roots. The roots, leaves, and twigs should be removed.

The petiole of a plant is the leaf stem that is connected to the stalk and supports

the blade of the leaf. In manila hemp (abaca) plants, the leaf stalks are often many feet in

length and contain long strands of bast fiber that are easily obtained once the stalks are

cut from the plant. Many banana plants in the Musaceae family yield this type of fiber,

and they usually have fibrous trunks as well. Petiole fiber tends to be very tough and can

require extensive processing.

Once enough plant material is collected, bast fiber needs to be separated from the

woody core and outer bark. In certain plants, the bast fiber can be easily separated from

the woody core after harvesting. For example, gampi (Wikstroemia retusa), one of the

important papermaking fibers in Japan, is harvested in the spring when it is easy to peel.

Willow and elm trees (Ulmus americana and U. pumila) are also easy to peel.
 13

The easiest leaves to process come from plants like iris, gladiolus (Gladiolus), and

lilies, which can be cut right from the plant and are ready to process directly into paper

pulp. These types of leaf fiber can be collected in the spring or fall, producing a green

paper in the spring and a brown paper in the fall. To harvest in the spring, cut individual

leaves near the base of the plant, removing only the outer leaves. The leaves at the core

should be left on the plant so that it can continue to grow.

Leaves from sword-like plants such as sisal (Agave sisalana) and yucca have

long, stringy fibers inside that look like fishing line. These fibers are difficult and time

consuming to process, and often require specialized equipment. Harvest these leaves as

you would the others--removing only the outermost leaves and cutting them near the

base. These leaves contain a large amount of fleshy connective tissue that should be

removed immediately after harvesting by decortication, retting, or cooking.

How to Make Paper Out of Banana Steam

The main raw material source of this paper is banana steam. After harvesting of

banana, stem cut into small pieces and it should dry in sun to reduce water from stem up

to 12 hours. After banana stem pieces are boiled, it should be washed properly to make

pulp from fiber by using pulp making mixture. Ready pulp put into vat (wooden pot) to

make paper by using different size of paper making. It is estimated that 10 banana

steams can produce 800 to 1000 paper sheet of 20X30 inches. One banana paper making

factory generates 5 to 6 employment in local areas.

 14

Bleaching the Pulp

According to Yu et al. (2017) the pulp can be bleached if desired by chemical

means including the use of chlorine dioxide, oxygen, alkaline peroxide and so forth. The

products of the present invention may comprise a blend of conventional fibers (whether

derived from virgin pulp or recycle sources) and high coarseness lignin-rich tubular

fibers, such as bleached chemical thermomechanical pulp (BCTMP). Pulp derived fibers

thus also include high yield fibers such as BCTMP as well as thermomechanical pulp

(TMP), chemi thermomechanical pulp (CTMP) and alkaline peroxide mechanical pulp

(APMP).

Surplus of nonwood plant fibers

The abundance of nonwood fibers in some countries is also responsible for its use

in papermaking. Sometimes, the use in papermaking is considered the best way to

dispose of nonwood fibers. Jute has a long historical role in socio economic development

in Bangladesh. In recent years, jute has faced stiff competition from synthetics. As a

result, demand for jute in local and overseas markets has shrunk. The situation is further

aggravated by a comparatively high growth of low quality jute, from 46-54%, from 1977

to 1986. About 200,000 metric tons of jute, with an additional 45,000 metric tons of jute

cuttings remains as surplus in Bangladesh (Akhtaruzzaman and Shafi, 1995). The

Bangladesh government is therefore exploring other possible uses of jute. Use in

papermaking is one option being considered. In Vietnam, surplus of bamboo led to the

establishment of a pulp and paper mill. But, the supply of bamboo over the years has

diminished as the percentage of land under forestation went down from 50% to 30%. In

Europe and Americas, the use of agricultural residues in pulping has a further advantage
 15

because it averts the need for disposal, which currently increases farming costs and

environmental deterioration through pollution, fires, and pests (Alcaide et al, 1991).

Special papermaking properties of selected nonwood plant fibers

Apart from the above reasons, some nonwood plant fibers are in demand for

papermaking due to the special properties that make them better than wood fibers for

specialty papers. Abaca is an excellent raw material for manufacture of specialty paper.

Its long fiber length and high strength make it a superior material for the production of

thin lightweight papers of high porosity and excellent tear burst and tensile strengths. It

has special properties for making strong products like tea bags, large sausage casings,

currency paper, cigarette and filter paper, and specialty products that require high wet

strength combined with high porosity. Kenaf possesses several natural advantages over

wood pulp. This 14-foot high plant’s rapid growth permits two harvests per year in some

areas. Comparatively soft and fibrous, kenaf requires less energy to pulp than wood.

Owing to the absence of lignin, kenaf is naturally bright. It requires neither chemical

delignification nor peroxide bleaching, and kenaf newsprint does not yellow with age and

exposure to light as with that made from wood. Sisal can be made into strong products.

Cotton linters are used for premium quality letterhead paper, currency paper, dissolving

pulp and other specialty products. Bagasse and straw are best at contributing excellent

formation to papers and can replace hardwood chemical pulps for printing and writing

paper.
 16

CHAPTER 3

METHODOLOGY AND PROCEDURES

This chapter discusses the research design and research instrument that will be

used by the researchers as well as the procedures.

Research Design

The quantitative experimental research is the research design that was used in this

study. The purpose of this research design is to answer questions about a variable by

obtaining numerical results in consideration of the experimental group and control group.

Another purpose of the quantitative experimental research design is to get the significant

difference between Terminalia catappa leaf fiber as paper component and commercial

product of Manila paper.

Research Instrument

Two laboratory tests, namely Biology Laboratory Microscopic fibers test and

Physics Laboratory Tensile strength test, were conducted in order to describe the writing

capabilities of Talisay Paper and Manila paper in terms of compactness and tearing-force

required to tear the paper. Through these, the researchers were able to obtain answer for

the statement of the problem stated in Chapter 1.

 17

Materials

Table 1
Materials

Names and Unit Price Total

Quantity Unit
Descriptions (Pesos) (Pesos)

Talisay leaves 100 Grams 0.00 0.00

Cornstarch 1 Pack 15.00 15.00

Silk Screen Board 1 Piece 81.00 81.00

Blender 1 Piece 0.00 0.00

Basin 1 Piece 0.00 0.00

Approximately
Water Liters 0.00 0.00
32.5

Casserole 1 Piece 0.00 0.00

Cheese Cloth 1 Yard 0.00 0.00

Strainer 1 Piece 0.00 0.00

Total Amount: 96.00

The Table 1 shows the list of materials needed, the quantity and its corresponding

prices. A total of 96 Php was used for the Talisay paper production.
 18

Procedure

1. Collect and prepare all the materials needed.

Figure 1
Collected Talisay Leaves

2. Shred the freshly fallen Talisay leaves into pieces. Remember to exclude the visible

hard veins of the leaves in order to acquire 250g of Talisay leaves and be able to create

10 pieces of letter size paper.

 19

Figure 2
Shredded Talisay Leaves
3. In a casserole, boil 1.5 liter of water then put the shredded leaves. Every 15 minutes

change the water. Repeat the process of changing the water 4 times, then strain.

Figure 3
Boiled Talisay leaves
 20

4. Put the boiled leaves in the blender then add 750ml of tap water. Run the blender slow

at first, add 5 scoops of corn starch and then increase the speed until the pulp looks

smooth and well-blended. The smoother the pulp is, the desirable the textured will be.

Figure 4
Blended Talisay leaves
 21

5. In a separate casserole, boil 10 tbsp. of corn starch with 40 ml of water. Stir the

mixture until it thickens.

Figure 5
Boiled Corn Starch
 22

6. Pour the boiled cornstarch into the blender with the talisay leaves and blend altogether

until well mixed.

Figure 6
Blended Talisay with boiled cornstarch
 23

7. Slide down the wooden frame into the mixture of water and pulp, lightly move it from

side to side until the pulp on the top of the screen lies evenly and uniformly flat even

when its submerged. The amount of pulp garnered on the top of the screen will be the

basis of the paper’s thickness. Slowly lift up the frame until it is above the liquid.

Figure 7
Molded Pulp
 24

8. Place the frame on a piece of cloth so that the excess water will be absorbed. Dry it

under the sun. Speed up the drying process by using a sponge or a hair dryer set on the

lowest setting. Wait until the sheets of paper are thoroughly dried, then gently peel it

from the screen. Iron for better result.

Figure 8
The Talisay Paper

9. Repeat the process from 7-8 in order to produce another sheet of paper.
 25

Statistical Treatment

The following statistical was used in the study to obtain the results needed:

Weighted Mean - this was used as the statistical tools in analyzing the data that were

collected from the trials of testing the tearing-force of the variables. This statistical tool

helped the researchers to measure the average of numerical data from the test.
 26

CHAPTER 4

PRESENTATION, INTERPRETATION AND ANALYSIS OF DATA

This chapter presents and analyses the gathered data by the researchers from the

obtaining the required information through descriptive results. It also aims to provide

clear understanding on the questions stated in Chapter 1.

Microscopic Fibers

According to Borch et al. (2001), they stated that the choice of microscope is

important. Ultimately, the choice of microscopic technique depends on the material being

examined and the resolution required. No single microscope is suitable for all purposes

and novel types of microscope do not replace the more traditional instruments but be

regarded as being complementary to the older techniques. In this study, the researchers

used a compound light microscope (CLM) since it is capable of magnifying specimen up

to 1000x (Friedl, 2003). Also according to Hiebert (2010), letting the plant naturally

decompose in the field to makes the process of harvesting the fibers easier. This made the

use of freshly fallen Talisay leaves more preferable. The structure of the leaf fibers of this

raw material regarding the presence of longitudinal bundles of fibrous material shows the

potential of Talisay Leaves as a good component for paper-making (Santos, 2016). In

terms of the fiber length, it has an average of 1mm. Manila hemp is prized for its great

mechanical strength, resistance to saltwater damage, and long fiber length which is 3 mm
 27

long as soft pulp. According to Chandra and Hammett (2014) longer fiber length is

desirable for strength properties in paper, but they tend to bunch together and as a result

do not provide good formation. Shorter fibers on the other hand provide excellent

formation.

Figure 9
Manila Paper
 28

Figure 10
Talisay Paper

As shown in Figures 9 and 10, both fibers are closely bonded together. The

interconnectivity between these fibers or the compactness partially determines the

strength of the paper. Therefore, Manila paper has better paper parameter result but

Talisay paper shows enough compactness to be used as paper. Since the binding agent

used for the experimental product is not well suited, the compactness of leaf fibers in

Talisay paper is not well compacted like the commercially available product. According

to Kuusisto and Maloney (2016) corn starch applied in papermaking can increase the

amount of starch in paper and improve sheet bonding without impairing dewatering.

Starch was first thermally treated to partially gelatinize and swell the granules. The aim

of the treatment was to change the surface properties of the starch and improve the

interactions between the fibers.

 29

Tensile Strength

The researchers observed through the Compound Microscope that the Talisay

fibers were bunched together and does not provide good formation like the Manila paper.

Since Talisay fibers are still considered as long fibers, the Talisay paper has higher

tensile strength than that of the Manila paper. The production of Manila paper involves a

lot of chemical and mechanical process resulting to better qualities.

Figure 11
Manila Paper
 30

Figure 12
Talisay made from 5tbsp of corn-
starch and 750mL of Talisay pulp
 31

Figure 13
Talisay made from 10tbsp of corn-
starch and 750mL of Talisay pulp
 32

Table 2
Thickness of papers and the required Tearing-Force

Trial No. Weighted Mean of

Thickness
Sample Tearing Force
(millimeter mm) 1 2 3
(F=Newton N )

1 0.13 mm 13.1 N 10.9 N 9.4 N 11.13 N

2 0.5 mm 12.2 N 11.0 N 10.9 N 11.37 N

3 1.0 mm 13. 1 N 14.7 N 14. 0 N 13.93 N

Sample 1: Manila paper depicts the standard tearing-force since it is the commercially
available or the control group.

The Table 2 reveals the corresponding thickness of papers and the result of

different trials conducted by the researchers in order to get the weighted mean of the

papers’ tearing force. It further shows that Sample 1 (Manila paper) is 0.13mm in terms

of thickness and requires 11.13 N to tear. This is now the standard tearing force and will

be the basis for the effectiveness. Sample 2 is the Talisay paper made from 5tbsp of corn-

starch and 750mL of Talisay pulp. It is 0.5mm thick and has a weighted mean of 11.37 N.

Additionally, sample 3 is the Talisay paper made from doubled proportion of corn-starch

with the same amount of Talisay pulp. Compared to Sample1, Sample 2 has higher

Tearing-Force. Sample 3 requires a tearing-force of 13.93 N to reach the point of tearing.

Since Sample 3 is thicker than Sample 2, it requires higher force in order to tear.

Therefore, the thickness of the paper affects the tensile strength of the paper and there is a

significant difference between the standard thickness of Manila paper and its tearing-

force and the Talisay paper. Since Sample 1 is 0.13mm thick and has a tearing force of
 33

11.13 N, Sample 2 must obtain 42.81 N and Sample 3 must obtain 85.62 N in order to

fully match its strength. However, it does not necessarily mean that Talisay paper is not

effective compared to Manila paper but rather the thicker the sample is, the higher tearing

force it will require. According to Sanne (2017), the process of production of paper

includes the addition of a binding agent, which increases the strength of the paper as well

as decrease the linting and dusting.

 34

CHAPTER 5

SUMMARY OF FINDINGS, CONCLUSION, AND RECOMMENDATION

This chapter presents the summary of the important features of present study, the

resulted outcome of experimentation and observation as well as the conclusion deduced

by the researchers from the previous chapter, and the recommendation needed based on

findings and conclusion in order to fully enhance the research study itself.

Summary of the Findings

The focus of this study is to test the writing capabilities of Talisay leaf fibers as a

wood-free paper substitute by comparing Talisay Paper to Manila paper in terms of (1)

microscopic fibers and (2) Tensile strength with varying thickness. The experimental

quantitative design of research was utilized in order to arrive to procedural results. To

further assess the microscopic fibers and tensile strength of the variables, the researchers

used the compound light microscope and the tearing-force sensor. The statistical

treatment used to calculate the numerical data gathered is the weighted mean. The actual

experimentation was conducted during the month of February 2018. As shown in Chapter

4, this is the summary of the results in:

1. Microscopic Fibers

In consideration of the varied thickness between the two variables, Talisay paper

is shown to have a more cross section resulting to more compactness. However, if it is to

match the desired thickness of Manila paper, it is more likely to be less compact than the
 35

control variable. The process of producing commercially available product is a lot more

enhanced than manual procedures.

2. Tensile Strength: Thickness of papers and the required Tearing-Force

Since Sample 1 shows the standard tearing-force of Manila paper, it is the basis

for the normal tensile strength. The resulted tearing-force it has required is 11.13 N. The

first sample of Talisay Paper (sample 2) required a tearing-force higher than Manila

paper which is 11.37 N but less than the second sample of Talisay Paper with thicker size

(sample 3) which is 13. 93. Therefore, the two samples of Talisay Paper require higher

tearing-force in order to reach their tearing point.

Conclusions

Base on the computed data, the researchers therefore conclude that:

1. The microscopic fibers of Talisay paper shows enough compactness to be used as

writing material, and;

2. The Talisay paper made with 5 tablespoon of corn starch has higher tearing force

than the Manila paper, as well as the Talisay paper with 10 tablespoon of corn

starch to Manila paper. Therefore, the thicker the sample is, the higher tearing

force it requires. In conclusion, the tensile strength of Talisay papers is higher

than the commercially available, and therefore effective as a wood-free paper

substitute.
 36

Recommendations

1. Improve the procedure of production in order to further soften the surface texture

of the paper, create stronger binding result, and thinner paper.

2. Conduct additional research on how to improve the writing appropriateness of the

product.

3. Upgrade the color of the paper.

4. Use a different binding agent and try other proportions in making the paper.

5. Try other leaves and conduct more testing quality of paper parameters.
 37

BIBLIOGRAPHY
 38

Asim, M. (2015). A Review on Pineapple Leaves Fibre and its Composites. Retrieved
from http://www.hindawi.com/journals/ijps/2015/950567/

Bloch, M. (2017, November 29). Tree-less Paper Alternative. Retrieved from

https://www.greenlivingthings.com/articles/3-3-paper.html

Borch, J. et al. (2001). Handbook of Physical Testing of Paper, Volume 2. Retrieved from
https://books.google.com.ph/books?id=qaI8QAOUL8C&pg

Chandra, M. & Hammett, A. L. (2014). Use of nonwood plant fibers for pulp and paper
industry in Asia: Potential in China. Retrieved from
https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/b5a7/0bf697b71ba92a67f54be0084d7cb905bf09.
pdf

Conley, K. (2015, December 17). Global production of paper and board hit record levels
in 2014. Retrieved from https://www.risiinfo.com/press-release/global-
production-of-paper-and-board-hit-record-levels-in-2014/

Friedl, S. (2003). Introduction to the Compound Microscope. Retrieved from

https://study.com/acdemy/lesson/introduction-to-the-compound-microscope-
parts-uses.html#lesson

Heibert, H. (1998). Paper Making with Plants. Retrieved from

http://handpapermaking.net/newsletter/beginner/beg72.htm

Kassim, A., Aripin, A., Hatta, Z., & Daud, Z. (2015). Exploring Non-wood plants as
alternative pulps: from the physical and chemical perspectives. In ICGSCE 2014
(pp. 19-24). Springer, Singapore.

Kassim, S. M. et al. (2015). Cogon Grass as an Alternative Fibre for Pulp and Paper-
Based Industry: On Chemical and Surface Morphological Properties. In Applied
Mechanics and Materials (Vols. 773-774 pp. 1242-1245).

Kuusisto, J. & Maloney, T. C. (2016). Industrial Crops and Products. (Vol. 83, pp. 294-
300). Retrieved from www.sciencedirect.com

Meis, R. (2010). Alternative Fiber in Paper: The Impact on Recycling and Pollution
Reduction. Retrieved from http://www.treecycle.com/papers/alt_fiber.html

Mininel, F. et al. (2014). Characterization and Quantification of Compounds in the

Hydroalcoholic Extract of the Leaves from Terminalia catappa Linn.
(Combretaceae) and Their Mutagenic Activity. Retrieved from
https://worldwidescience.org/topicpages/t/terminalia+catappa+leaves.html

Parsons, J. L. (2005). Paper. In Encyclopedia Americana. (Vol. 21, p. 376). USA:

Scholastic Library Publishing.
 39

Saha, N., Kawata, I. & Furukawa, Y. J. For. Res. (1997). Alternative fiber resources for
pulp and paper industry of bangladesh: Why and what? Retrieved from
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/BF02348215

Sanne, E., et al. (2017) Filler for paper making process. Retrieved from
https://patents.google.com/patent/US9657441B2/en

Santos, OV. (2016). Chemical, morphological, and thermo gravimetric

of Terminalia catappa Linn. Retrieved from
https://worldwidescience.org/topicpages/t/terminalia+catappa+leaves.html

Shailendra, P., et al. (2012). Natural Binding Agents in Tablet Formulation. International
Journal of Pharmaceutical & Biological Archives, 3(3), 466-473.

Shen, W., Chen, X., Liu, H., & Liu, J. (2009, June). Identifications of quality parameters
in paper-making industry. In Information and Automation, 2009. ICIA'09.
International Conference on (pp. 716-721). IEEE.

Stenius, P. (2000). Forest products chemistry: Papermaking Science and Technology

19(3), 28-55.

Wahab, M.S. et al. (2015, July 28). Producing Paper Using Pineapple Leaf Fiber.
Retrieved from
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/237005197_Producing_Paper_Using_Pi
neapple_Leaf_Fiber

Zawawi, D. et al. (2014). Agro Waste as alternative fibers. BioResources, 9 (1), 872.
 40

APPENDICES
 41

Documentation

Figure 14
Microscopic Fibers of
Manila Paper

Figure 15
Microscopic Fibers of
Talisay Paper
 42

Figure 16
Tensile Strength of
Sample 1

Figure 17
Tensile Strength of
Sample 2
 43

Figure 18
Tensile Strength of
Sample 3

Figure 19
Writing Appropriateness of Sample 1
 44

Figure 20
Writing Appropriateness of Sample 2

Figure 21
Writing Appropriateness of Sample 3
 45

CURRICULUM VITAE
 46

I. Personal Information

Name: Wencie Y. Feliciano

Gender: Female
Address: Zone 1, Paulien, Iba, Zambales
Cellphone No.: 09158038312
Email Address: felicianowencie@gmail.com
Date of Birth: July 12, 1999 Birth Place: Iba, Zambales
Religion: MCGI Nationality: Filipino
Father’s Name: Wenceslao G. Feliciano Occupation: Fisherman
Mother’s Name: Chiemie Y. Secington-Wright Occupation: Call Center Agent

II. Educational Background

Elementary: Santo Rosario Elementary School

Junior High School: Zambales National High School
Senior High School: Ramon Magsaysay Technological University
 47

I. Personal Information

Name: Divina N. Fogata

Gender: Female
Address: Brgy. East Feria, San Felipe, Zambales

Cellphone No.: 09277125068

Email Address: divinafogata@gmail.com
Date of Birth: November 16, 1999 Birth Place: San Felipe, Zambales
Religion: Catholic Nationality: Filipino
Father’s Name: Ernesto M. Fogata Occupation: Teacher
Mother’s Name: Norvelita N. Fogata Occupation: Teacher

II. Educational Background

Elementary: San Felipe Elementary School (East)

Junior High School: Zambales Central Institute
Senior High School: Ramon Magsaysay Technological University
 48

I. Personal Information

Name: Rachel Joy D. Bajado

Gender: Female
Address: Bangantalinga, Iba, Zambales

Cellphone No.: 09083086527

Email Address: racheljoybajado.rjaybwii@gmail.com
Date of Birth: November 2, 1999 Birth Place: Iba, Zambales
Religion: Catholic Nationality: Filipino
Father’s Name: Ramel G. Bajado Occupation: OFW
Mother’s Name: Joehres D. Bajado Occupation: None

II. Educational Background

Elementary: Little Baguio Elementary School

Junior High School: Ramon Magsaysay Technological University (Laboratory High
School)
Senior High School: Ramon Magsaysay Technological University
 49

I. Personal Information

Name: Roieanne Mae C. Ong

Gender: Female
Address: San Agustin, Iba, Zambales

Cellphone No.: 09467640986

Email Address: roieanneong1@gmail.com
Date of Birth: July 16, 2000 Birth Place: Olongapo City
Religion: Catholic Nationality: Filipino
Father’s Name: Roy Roland M. Ong Occupation: Electrician
Mother’s Name: Jane Marie C. Ong Occupation: None

II. Educational Background

Elementary: San Agustin Elementary School

Junior High School: Zambales National High School
Senior High School: Ramon Magsaysay Technological University
 50

I. Personal Information

Name: Trixie A. Anajao

Gender: Female
Address: Cauyan, Palauig, Zambales

Cellphone No.: 09305125403

Email Address: trixieanajao12@gmail.com
Date of Birth: November 20, 1999 Birth Place: Palauig, Zambales
Religion: Catholic Nationality: Filipino
Father’s Name: Ricky D. Anajao Occupation: Driver
Mother’s Name: Jovy A. Anajao Occupation: OFW

II. Educational Background

Elementary: Cauyan Elementary School

Junior High School: Carmel Academy
Senior High School: Ramon Magsaysay Technological University
 51

I. Personal Information

Name: Lyca Mae C. Soliven

Gender: Female
Address: Sta. Rita, Cabangan, Zambales

Cellphone No.: 09201310921

Email Address: lycasoliven@gmail.com
Date of Birth: October 16, 1999 Birth Place: Cabangan, Zambales
Religion: Catholic Nationality: Filipino
Father’s Name: Edgardo D. Soliven Occupation: None
Mother’s Name: Leilanie C. Soliven Occupation: OFW

II. Educational Background

Elementary: Sta. Rita Elementary School

Junior High School: Cabangan National High School
Senior High School: Ramon Magsaysay Technological University
 52

I. Personal Information

Name: Gerimy E. Cantillo

Gender: Male
Address: Sto. Rosario, Iba, Zambales
Cellphone No.: 09460340152
Email Address: c.gerimy@gmail.com
Date of Birth: March 25, 2000 Birth Place: Iba, Zambales
Religion: Roman Catholic Nationality: Filipino
Father’s Name: Gerardo U. Cantillo Occupation: None
Mother’s Name: Marjorie E. Cantillo Occupation: None

II. Educational Background

Elementary: Iba Central Elementary School

Junior High School: Zambales National High School
Senior High School: Ramon Magsaysay Technological University
 53

I. Personal Information

Name: Robin Jay B. Battad

Gender: Male
Address: NTRA Botolan, Zambales
Cellphone No.: 09463417991
Email Address: robbinbattad11@gmail.com
Date of Birth: March 11, 2000 Birth Place: Botolan, Zambales
Religion: Roman Catholic Nationality: Filipino
Father’s Name: Randy M. Battad Occupation: Driver
Mother’s Name: Fe B. Battad Occupation: None

II. Educational Background

Elementary: Villaflor Elementary

Junior High School: New Taugtog National High School
Senior High School: Ramon Magsaysay Technological University
 54

I. Personal Information

Name: Angelo E. Plandano

Gender: Male
Address: Purok 2, Binabalian, Candelaria, Zambales

Cellphone No.: 09076690801

Email Address: angeloplandano@gmail.com
Date of Birth: October 31, 1999 Birth Place: Candelaria, Zambales
Religion: Catholic Nationality: Filipino
Father’s Name: Angelito D. Plandano Occupation: Salesman
Mother’s Name: Emilie E. Plandano Occupation: None

II. Educational Background

Elementary: Binabalian Elementary School

Junior High School: Lauis National High School
Senior High School: Ramon Magsaysay Technological University