HOLY CROSS HIGH SCHOOL, INC.

Camp Phillips, Agusan Canyon, Manolo Fortich,

8705 Bukidnon, Region X
† By This Sign You Shall Conquer †
‘In God’s Mercy, We Serve with Joy’

“Citrus peels as dishwashing soap”

Allyn Faith B. Torres

Jessie James P. Olmillo
Josh Wayne J. De La
Rosa Maria Angela L.
Bangot Zeke Uriel M.
Ebueza
Zyrah Pearl C. Cabatuan
Researchers

Submitted in Fulfillment of the Requirements for the

Investigatory Project in Science 10

Ma’am Katrina A. Dahe

Science Teacher
 ABSTRACT

This investigatory project explores the concept of “Citrus Peels as a Dishwashing Liquid” and
the various intriguing aspects of it. The project investigates the potential ability of citric-like
peels and their potential to substitute chemical-based dishwashing liquids, aiming to provide
naturally produced dishwashing
liquid whilst promoting resourcefulness among citric fruit consumers in society.

This addresses the arisal of the amount of waste disposal in society, or even our country. The
study aims to enhance economical efficiency and managed waste disposal, benefitting the
environment and local communities and plant-life.

Our research has various terms within the components or citric aspects, contemplating unique
concepts of each necessity of dishwashing liquid. The questions focused on our investigation
include aspects of the efficiency of natural citric dishwashing liquid, the exact concentrations or
steps salvaged in the
process of making the solution, and how it affects and maintains the balance of the ecosystem.

The procedure of our product also requires a few simple and accessible materials in order to
create this solution. This factor makes it so that the product is viable and easy to make when in
need of a substitution for dishwashing liquid. Additionally, the citrus’ elements contain natural
cleaning agents that are non-chemical and efficienctly break down dirt and other unclean objects
found in used objects.

Though this investigatory project induces these, some materials needed require fermentation for a
certain amount of time in order to attain the full potential of the desired solution, proper storage of
the equipment, and a few more namely.

The study's findings mainly aim to provide a pure, natural, and recreatable chemical-free solution
to use as a dishwashing liquid, aid in the management of the environment and economical field,
and promote intricate values like ‘resourcefulness’ and etc.

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 INTRODUCTION
Background of the Study

Peels from citrus fruits are frequently thrown out as garbage. Researching their potential as a
cleaning agent encourages the recycling of organic resources, which reduces food waste and
contributes to a more sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle. Many commercial dishwashing
detergents include dangerous chemicals that can damage marine life and pollute water systems.
Considering they are by-products of already-consumed fruits, citrus peels are frequently free or
inexpensive. They include natural acids and oils that can be used as a non-toxic, biodegradable
cleaning solution. they might provide a less expensive option to store-bought detergents. Using
natural cleaning supplies, such as citrus peels, can lessen exposure to harsh chemicals that are
frequently present in synthetic detergents. Those who have sensitive skin or chemical-based
product allergies can benefit from this.

Research on such topics can help raise public awareness about the importance of finding natural,
sustainable alternatives in daily life, encouraging broader adoption of environmentally friendly
practices. Studies such as these can support the concept of a circular economy, where waste
products are repurposed into valuable resources, minimizing environmental impact.

Alternatives to chemical based household items, which can have negative health impacts on both
people and the environment, are of increasing interest to the scientific community from a health
perspective. For homes with kids, pets, or people who are allergic to or sensitive to traditional
cleaning solutions, natural cleansers like citrus peels may provide a safer option. This encourages
public awareness about lowering exposure to dangerous chemicals and development into green
cleaning technology

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Statement of the Problem

The problem we're researching on is the reliance of synthetic chemicals that could harm
overall health and environment, and with millions of tons of peels produced annually. By finding
innovative uses for these peels instead of just throwing them away, which greatly reduces overall
waste.

The sub question we will address on our product are:

 What specific compounds in citrus peels contribute to their cleaning abilities?

 What is the optimal concentration of citrus extracts for effective cleaning?
 What impact does using citrus peels have on local ecosystems and waste
management practices?

Significance of the Study

Citrus peels as a natural dishwasher offers a number of possible practical uses and
advantages that can support both individual families and more general societal and
environmental objectives, which makes the research project "citrus peels as dishwashing"
significant.

Citrus peels reduce exposure to hazardous chemicals commonly found in conventional cleaning
products, making them safer for households, especially for children, pets, and people with
chemical allergies or sensitivities. This is the first important reason why this study is significant.

Second, because citrus peels are frequently thrown away as waste, food waste can be used to
reduce waste. We may significantly reduce the amount of food waste and promote a circular
economy where waste is transformed into useful resources by repurposing them as cleaning
agents.

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Thirdly, the efficacious cleaning characteristics of citrus peels, due to components such as d-
limonene and citric acid, enable them to successfully eliminate oil and grime, rendering
them suitable for washing dishes, pots, and pans.

Furthermore, because citrus peels are made of organic substances and biodegrade, they are a
sustainable substitute for detergents that contain chemicals. This makes using citrus peels as a
dishwasher an environmentally responsible cleaning solution. Their application can encourage
ecologically friendly cleaning methods and lessen chemical contamination.

Last but not least, promoting the use of citrus peels as cleaning agents can increase awareness of
sustainability and motivate people to start incorporating more environmentally friendly
practices into their daily lives. Citrus peel-based cleaners can capitalize on the growing market
for natural and eco-friendly products, which is in line with consumer preferences for
sustainability.

In conclusion, the development of citrus peels as dishwashers can have a major positive impact on
consumer behavior, public health, economic growth, and environmental sustainability through
investigating these beneficial applications and advantages

Scope and Limitation of the Study

The scope of the study titled "citrus peels as dishwashing soap" primarily focuses on
exploring the potential of using citrus peels as alternative dishwashing liquid compared to other
commercial dishwashing liquid with toxic chemicals that can harm people.this project helps in
developing eco-friendly or green economy by reusing the citrus peels instead of throwing it away
in the garbage. By examining the efficacy of citrus peels as dishwashing soap, this project will
be focusing on creating a natural cleaning agent that benefits both people and the environment. It
can help those who are chemically sensitive or allergic, and it is also less expensive than
commercial dishwashing soap. The environment can also benefit from this project because citrus
peels are environmentally friendly.

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Citrus peels can take two to three weeks to ferment, which can be a time commitment when
making dishwashing soap. Peeling, chopping, or blending citrus peels and preparing other
ingredients like vinegar or essential oils can take time if you're making large batches. You'll also
need other ingredients like vinegar, water, and possibly essential oils or castile soap for a
complete dishwashing liquid. These might not be easily accessible or might need to be
purchased. Natural dishwashing liquids without preservatives might have a shorter shelf life and
require refrigeration or prompt use. Producing larger quantities for a family or for extended use
may require larger batches, which can increase the need for time, space, and equipment like large
containers.The type and freshness of citrus peels can affect the concentration of natural oils in
the peels. The lifetime and efficacy of dishwashing solutions can be greatly impacted by the
storage location and method. For instance, the solution may deteriorate more quickly if it is kept
in a warm atmosphere. Inaccurate judgments regarding the product’s quality could result from
skewed testing results if these factors are ignored.

Store the soap in a cool, dry place, and it should last for several weeks or longer.this homemade
dishwashing soap should not be use on heavily soiled dishes. The shelf life of this dishwashing
soap using citrus peels will last 2-3 months if you Keep it in a cool, dark place, such as under the
sink or in the refrigerator. Since vinegar is a natural preservative, it helps extend the life of the
citrus cleaner.

I conducted this study for two to three weeks of fermentation of the citrus peels and one week of
making the other materials or ingredients of the project and then testing the project after the
making.

All things considered, these restrictions imply that test results for homemade citrus peel
dishwashing solutions should be cautiously evaluated. Variability in the cleaner’s ingredients,
batch sizes, storage conditions, and user perception can all affect its efficacy, usefulness, and
environmental impact.

Definition of Terms

The following terms are defined to understand this investigatory project better

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Citrus peels - Citrus fruits’ outer skin, that includes essential oils, acids, and other substances
that are good for cleaning and freshening, includes lemons, oranges, limes, and grapefruits.

D-Limonene - A naturally occurring substance with solvent and degreasing qualities that is
present in citrus peels, especially orange oil. It works well for cleaning purposes since it breaks
down stains and grease.

Citric Acid - An organic acid that serves as a natural preservative and has antimicrobial
qualities. It aids in removing stains from hard water and cutting through grease.

Biodegradable - A property of compounds that microbes can break down into natural, non-toxic
components. Citrus peel products are often biodegradable, which makes them eco-friendly.

Essential Oils - Concentrated plant extracts that preserve the flavor, aroma, and chemical
characteristics of the plant. Citrus essential oils, which are extracted from the peels.

Sustainability - The process of allocating resources in a way that satisfies present demands
without endangering the capacity of future generations to satisfy their own.

Circular economy - An idea of economics that uses recycling and reusing materials to maximize
resources and reduce waste. As it reuses trash, using citrus peels as cleaning agents is consistent
with the circular economy.

Cost effectiveness - An indicator of a process or product’s economic efficiency. The term is

important when determining whether cleaners made from citrus peels are more affordable than
conventional cleaning supplies.

Anti-bacterial properties - The capacity of a material to prevent bacterial development. Citrus

peels include compounds with antibacterial qualities, like citric acid and essential oils, which
makes them appropriate for cleaning purposes.

Residue - residue that remains on surfaces following cleaning. The goal of citrus peel research is
to reduce the amount of residue that remains after dishwashing.

These definitions offer a basic comprehension of the terms and ideas relevant to the study on the
use of citrus peels as dishwashers.

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND CONCEPTUAL

FRAMEWORK

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Review of Literature and Related Studies

Citrus peels, like those from lemons and oranges, can make great natural dishwashing
liquids. They contain a compound called d-limonene, which helps cut through grease and fat.
Plus, the oils in these peels have antimicrobial properties, reducing bacteria on your dishes.
Using citrus peels is eco-friendly, as it helps reduce waste and avoids harsh chemicals found in
many store-bought cleaners.

You can easily make a DIY solution by soaking citrus peels in vinegar or using them in warm
water. Not only do they clean well, but they also leave a fresh, pleasant scent. By using peels that
you’d normally throw away, you’re opting for a sustainable and effective cleaning option. Citrus
peels, like those from lemons and oranges, can be a great addition to your dishwashing routine.
Their natural acidity helps break down grease and food residues, while also leaving dishes
smelling fresh.

You can enhance their cleaning power by soaking the peels in vinegar to create a natural
disinfectant. If you don’t use them directly in the dishwasher, consider composting them to
enrich your garden soil. Dried peels can also be ground into a mild scrub for pots and pans, and
you can place them in sachets to freshen up drawers.

Plus, running an empty dishwasher cycle with peels helps keep it clean and fresh. Using citrus
peels not only improves your dishwashing but also promotes a more eco-friendly kitchen. These
can all be found in reference materials, such as DIY video tutorials, news magazines,
documentaries, articles, studies, and more. Dr. M. A. C. A. G. L. T. C. V. de Lima (a researcher)
has also conducted significant research on the chemical composition of citrus peels. His studies
have identified key compounds, such as flavonoids and essential oils, that contribute to the
antimicrobial and cleaning properties of citrus.

By analyzing these components, Dr. de Lima’s work supports the potential application of citrus
peels in natural cleaning products, highlighting their effectiveness and environmental benefits.
This research underscores the value of utilizing citrus byproducts in developing sustainable
cleaning solutions. This research of Dr. De Lima, also is a form of reference material, as it
thoroughly highlights the various aspects of the study of “citrus peels as a dishwasher” ,
mentioning and noting different and unique forms of citrus components, that are undoubtedly
proven to be of help in cleansing forms of dirtiness that can or may be found in used dishes,
whether this form of dirtiness is grease and grime, citrus peels has shown to have components to
oppose these forms of dirt in studies done by researchers, such as this one.

Citrus extracts, especially from fruits like lemons and oranges, have become popular as effective
natural cleaning agents due to their primary active component, d-limonene. Research indicates

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that these extracts can effectively clean at concentrations ranging from 5% to 10%. In a study
conducted by Matan et al. (2017), it was demonstrated that d-limonene can effectively break
down grease and oil at these concentrations, making it useful for a variety of cleaning tasks.
Similarly, Duarte et al. (2020) found that citrus extracts often outperform traditional synthetic
cleaners, particularly in removing tough stains and greasy residues. The natural acidity present in
citrus helps to dissolve food residues, making it an ideal choice for cleaning applications.

In addition to their cleaning capabilities, citrus extracts also possess notable antimicrobial
properties. Ochoa-Velasco et al. (2019) highlighted that higher concentrations of citrus extracts,
around 10% or more, exhibit stronger antibacterial effects. This quality is particularly important
for cleaning surfaces in kitchens and bathrooms, where harmful bacteria can thrive. The study
indicates that using citrus extracts can significantly reduce the presence of these pathogens,
providing a safer alternative to chemical disinfectants.

Furthermore, Pérez-Jiménez et al. (2021) emphasized that these extracts can effectively sanitize
surfaces while being less harmful to human health and the environment. The environmental
benefits of using citrus extracts as cleaning agents are also substantial. Yadav et al. (2021)
pointed out that incorporating natural products like citrus peels into cleaning routines helps
reduce reliance on synthetic chemicals, which can be detrimental to both health and the
environment. By opting for natural cleaners, consumers can decrease the amount of chemical
waste that ends up in landfills and waterways. This shift toward natural cleaning solutions is part
of a larger trend aimed at promoting sustainability and reducing ecological footprints.

Moreover, using citrus extracts aligns with the principles of green cleaning, where renewable
resources are prioritized over synthetic options. As more consumers become aware of the
potential dangers associated with chemical cleaners, the demand for natural alternatives like
citrus extracts is likely to rise. Research supports the idea that using these extracts not only
enhances cleaning effectiveness but also
contributes to a healthier planet.

The adoption of citrus extracts in everyday cleaning routines can lead to better hygiene practices
and a safer environment for families and communities. Additionally, the appeal of citrus extracts
lies in their pleasant aroma, which can enhance the overall cleaning experience. Many consumers
prefer the fresh scent of citrus over the harsh chemical odors typically associated with synthetic
cleaners.

This preference encourages more people to explore natural cleaning solutions and adopt practices
that promote a healthier home environment. In conclusion, the optimal concentration of citrus
extracts for effective cleaning generally falls between 5% and 10%, with higher concentrations
offering enhanced antimicrobial properties. This review underscores the effectiveness and

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environmental benefits of citrus extracts as cleaning agents. By integrating these natural agents
into daily cleaning routines, individuals can maintain cleanliness while supporting sustainability.
As awareness of the advantages of natural cleaning products continues to grow, the use of citrus
extracts is expected to become more widespread, benefiting both users and the environment.

An orange is a fruit of various citrus species in the Rutaceae Family. As we all know Oranges
contain Vitamin C which helps our body in lots of ways. To further support our research on
Citrus Peels as Dishwashing Liquids, Researchers of the previous project stated that orange is a
fruit known for its delectable taste and its use in the fiellds of medicine.

In today's time we always go to the mall or stores to buy the things we needed for our daily lives
even if its really expensive including dishwashing liquids. Data suggests that Orange peels have
high concentrated citrus based neutral liquid detergent being formatted as an all natural cleaner.
In accordance with other researchers trying orange peels as dishwashing liquids, you can also use
calamansi and tangerine as they are more cheaper and very effective than any other dishwashing
liquids we use today.

To further support that calamansi and tangerine as an alternate product to citrus peels, calamansi
contains with essential vitamins and minerals. While tangerine acts as an antifungal and
antiseptic ingredient and also improves the appearance of the skin. Researchers also ensure that it
is the right and proper process and procedure so that it is safe.

Natural derived products have been becoming a new trend in household products and
dishwashing liquids. In this research alone, crude saponin was extracted by Gledetsia peel by
Soxhlet extraction method. This was the main component that was used for producing natural
dishwashing liquid detergents which is environmentally friendly, eco friendly and safe for
the user's health.

They reduce exposure to harmful chemicals, which can cause respiratory issues, skin irritations,
and other health problems.Eco-friendly products minimize pollution and reduce the ecological
footprint by using biodegradable ingredients that break down naturally.Many eco-friendly
cleaners are derived from renewable resources, promoting sustainable practices and reducing
reliance on fossil fuels.These products are less likely to contaminate waterways, protecting
aquatic life and ecosystems.By prioritizing eco-friendly cleaning products, individuals contribute
to a healthier environment and promote sustainable living practices.

Citrus peels are often discarded as waste in the food industry, contributing to landfill
accumulation. Utilizing them in products like cleaning agents helps reduce waste.Rich in

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essential oils, such as limonene, citrus peels possess natural antimicrobial properties, making
them effective for cleaning without synthetic chemicals.Products derived from citrus peels are
typically biodegradable, minimizing environmental impact compared to conventional
cleaners.Citrus fruits are widely cultivated, ensuring a continuous supply of peels, which can be
repurposed rather than wasted.Utilizing citrus peels can create new markets and job
opportunities in waste management and product development.By harnessing the potential of
citrus peels, we can promote sustainability while creating effective cleaning solutions.

A major constituent In citrus peel oils, limonene is known for its pleasant scent and strong
antimicrobial properties. It can comprise up to 95% of the essential oil in some citrus peels, such
as sweet orange and pomelo.Present in significant amounts, citric acid enhances the cleaning
power by breaking down grease and mineral deposits, making it effective for dishwashing.Citrus
peels also contain α-pinene, β-myrcene, and linalool, which contribute to their antibacterial and
antioxidant .These compounds work synergistically to enhance the overall cleaning efficacy of
products derived from citrus peels.This unique chemical composition positions citrus peels as a
valuable resource for developing eco-friendly cleaning products.

Limonene and citric acid are particularly effective against a range of bacteria and fungi. Studies
have shown that these compounds can inhibit the growth of pathogens such as E. coli and
Salmonella, making citrus peels useful in sanitizing applications.

The essential oils extracted from citrus peels also demonstrate antifungal properties, which can
help prevent mold and mildew growth.Limonene acts as a natural solvent, effectively breaking
down oils and grease, which is essential for dishwashing applications.The fresh scent of citrus
not only masks odors but also neutralizes unpleasant smells, enhancing the overall cleaning
experience.The acidic nature of citric acid helps dissolve mineral deposits and stains, making it
effective for cleaning surfaces in kitchens and bathroomsThese antimicrobial and cleaning
properties make citrus peels a valuable ingredient in eco-friendly cleaning products, providing
both safety and effectiveness.

Historically, various cultures have utilized citrus peels for cleaning and disinfecting purposes.
For example, in traditional Chinese medicine, citrus peels were employed not only for their
health benefits but also for their cleansing properties.In regions like Indonesia, citrus peels are
incorporated into eco-enzymes for waste treatment and preservation methods, showcasing their
multifunctional use beyond mere cleaning.

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 This work attempts to shed some light on the scarce literature regarding the quantitative
assessment of substitution capacity in target markets, by examining a case study of toluene use
as an industrial cleaning agent and its replacement by limonene, a widely established citrus‐peel‐
derived alternative in a number of applications. The systematic approach presented here
compares market demand against potential supply by evaluating current and projected scenarios
based on citrus fruit and juice production both at global and regional level. The results clearly
show that the potential for complete substitution of toluene by limonene at global level is
certainly out of reach, but encouraging results were obtained in specific regional substitution
case studies, considering both citrus‐producing and citrus‐importing countries. In these cases,
there is a clear potential for limonene to substitute toluene as a solvent within and beyond the
cleaning sector, leaving space for future work in this area to investigate the transition potential
for other important bio‐based chemicals. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley
& Sons, Ltd

Background India has been using natural, renewable resources for dishwashing and cleaning
since pre-Harappan times, which speak to the country’s rich biodiversity and long standing
traditions of health and hygiene.Short conclusion Compared to commercial, manmade
surfactants, natural organic and biosurfactant cleaners have several major advantages over
synthetic ones, such as their natural availability, affordability, renewability, biocompatibility,
biodegradability, minimal environmental and human toxicity, hypo-human allergenicity and
multifaceted biological activities. They are free from preservatives and carcinogenic
byproducts, free from phosphate-induced eutrophication and sustainable in terms of local
resource use, fossil fuel independence and low carbon footprint production. In addition to
kitchen utensil cleaning,
few of them are utilized for their myriad of functionalities such as jewelry polisher, face mask,
bathing soap, hair cleanser, hair conditioner and washing detergent. The use of renewable and
natural cleaning materials aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goal

Conceptual Framework

Discovering the Potential of

Citrus Peels as dishwashing
soap as a good Alternative to
Store bought
INPUT OUTPUT

-Composition of Citrus formulation into soap.

peels (Essential oils, organic
acids. PROCESSES
-Methods of extraction and
-Assesing Citrus Peels -Performance Metrics of
Properties Citrus peel soap
- Comparative analysis with (Cleaning
efficiency, safety, and

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biodegradability.)
-Consumer approval, and
market sustainability
 Figure 1. Schematic Diagram for Citrus peels as a good Alternative for store bought soap.

METHODOLOGY

Experimental Deisgn

Types of Material
---(Independent Variable)---

DEPENDENT CONTROLLED
VARIABLES VARIABLES

-Texture Content CITRUST PEELS

-Moisture - Baking Soda -Cleaning Component
-Sweet fragrance -Cateline -Removes Dirts
-Highly Concentrated -White Vinegar -Cleans utensils

Figure 2. Schematic Diagram showing the Relationships between Variables

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MATERIAL AND EQUIPMENT
To experiment with citrus fruits as dishwashing soap, you will need citrus fruits such as lemons, oranges,
or grapefruits for their natural cleaning compounds. Other necessary materials include water for diluting
the citrus juice, baking soda or salt for enhancing the cleaning properties, and possibly vinegar for testing
its combination with citrus. You’ll also need a commercial dishwashing detergent for comparison
purposes. For equipment, you’ll need a knife and cutting board to prepare the fruits, a juicer or citrus
press to extract the juice, measuring spoons and cups for accurate measurements, mixing bowls to
combine ingredients, and a strainer or cheesecloth to filter out pulp and seeds. Additionally, a spray bottle
or container is required to store the cleaning solution, while a sponge or scrub brush is 1 is necessary to
test the solution’s effectiveness on dishes. Dishware will be needed to test the cleaning performance, and
a timer will help you measure cleaning time. Optional equipment like pH strips can be used to assess the
acidity of the citrus solutions.

Procedure

Preparing the citrus peels

Use the peels of fresh citrus fruits, such as limes, lemons, and oranges. To assist cut through
grease, these peels contain natural oils. Rinse the citrus fruits under cool water to get rid of any
dirt or pesticide residue. Use your hands or a vegetable peeler to remove the skin. To increase
the surface area and help release more oils during the simmering process, cut the peels into
smaller pieces (about 1-2 inches in size). Peels from any citrus fruit (orange, lemon, lime, etc.)
should be collected. Do not remove too much of the white pith as this can reduce the
effectiveness of the dishwashing liquid and a moderate amount of peels is about 1-2 cups.

Boiling the peels

Place one or two cups of the prepared citrus peels in a medium-sized pot. Cover the peels with
two to three cups of water, making sure they are completely covered. Put the pot on the stove and
turn the heat up to medium-high. After letting the water come to a complete boil, lower the heat
and let the mixture simmer moderately. Give it around 20 minutes to simmer. After 20 minutes,
turn off the heat and allow the liquid to cool for a few minutes before filtering. This method
removes the oils and natural cleaning agents from the citrus peels.

Strain the liquid

Cover a big bowl or measuring cup with a piece of cheesecloth or a fine mesh filter. Pour the
boiled citrus mixture slowly through a mesh strainer or cheesecloth to ensure a smooth consume
by catching any tiny particles. Pouring gently guarantees that all of the liquid gets through and
avoids spills. To remove as much liquid as possible from the citrus peels in the sieve, gently
press down on them with the back of a spoon. Pour the filtered liquid (now your citrus
concentrate) into a clean container.

Add vinegar

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White vinegar's high acidity typically between 5 and 8% acetic acid allows it to effectively
breakdown grease and provide cleaning power. The bonds in fatty and oily materials are broken
down by this acidity, which facilitates their removal. By getting rid of microorganisms that cause
odors, vinegar's acidic properties also help to keep dishes and kitchen surfaces smelling fresh.
Additionally, vinegar has mild antibacterial qualities that make cleaning safer and more hygienic
than water alone, even if it cannot replace professional disinfectants. Because of its stain-lifting
properties, it can also be used to remove tough food residue off dishes. Vinegar and the natural
oils in citrus peels combine to provide a dishwashing solution that is efficient, odor-free, and safe
for the environment.

Optional steps

To have additional scrubbing power, mix in 1-2 tablespoons of baking soda. This will make the
liquid more effective for tough stains and grease.adding castile soap and essential oil are optional
for extra cleaning power and fragrance.

RESULTS AND FINDINGS

Fabrication

The Citrus peels were cut into even pieces so that we can easily extract each of
the peels for the desired acid. The boiling process which takes about 20 minutes in medium or
low heat to extract the juice or acid of the peels. We then mixed the product with baking soda
until we got a slimy or watery texture.

Table 3: Fabrication Results

Sample Cutting Ease (1-10) Mixing (1-10) Texture quality(1-

10)

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 A 10 10 8

B 9 9 9

C 8 9 7

D 10 10 9

E 10 9 10

The data in Table 3 demonstrates or shows us that our citrus peels were cut
into equal pieces with sample A, D and E achieving an excellent rating. While the mixturing
process of the citrus peels with baking soda with sample A and D achieving the excellent rating
due to the mixing being easy with the juice from the peels which were boiled before mixing
with baking soda. Furthermore, the texture quality of the mixed product with only sample E
achieving the highest rating out of the five products we made.

In terms of Fabrication, the Citrus peels were or can easily be cut into your
desired shapes or styles. While the mixing of both baking soda and the juice from the boiled
peels from water proved that it really is easy to mix both ingredients to make the product.
However, that cannot be same with the texture quality of the product as it achieved low scores
during the making of our final product with only the last product having the excellent score of
the texture that was equally slimy and watery texture.

RESULTS AND FINDINGS

Citrus acid peel extraction

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 The extraction process was successful as we obtained the acid from the
citrus peels which is our main ingredient. The acid helped in making our product to be a strong
dishwashing cleaner.

Table 1: Citrus Extraction and Results

Sample Citrus strength Acidic strength

A Strong Extreme

B Strong Extreme

C Strong Strong

D Strong Extreme

E Excellent Excellent

The results from Table 1 showed that the strength of citrus peels and its
acid is strong enough to clean dishes that are stained with oil, dirt, and even sticky moistures as
shown by their strengths. This shows that the strength of the acid of the citrus peels are enough
to clean even the dirtiest plate, utensils, and cooking equipment which is the main goal of our
product.

As the context of this investigatory project, the acid of the citrus extract
indicates how strong the acid of citrus peels are with the help of other materials to clean even
the dirtiest and oiliest kitchen equipment, plates, and furthermore. By identifying the strength
of this acid we concluded that our product is ready to be used in cleaning the stained kitchen
equipment, etc..

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Optional Steps

The optional steps of adding vinegar and essential oils showed positive results. The
vinegar added more acidity to the mixture, providing improved scrubbing power. The essential
oils effectively gave the mixture a pleasant smell to it, providing a much nicer smell to the plates
and wares when cleaning.
Table 2: Effects of Optional Steps
Sample Scrubbing Intensity Scent Rating (1 – 10)
A 7 8.9
B 8 9
C 7.5 8.5
D 9 7

As shown above, the essential oils greatly enhanced it’s scent, with samples B and D
showing incredible scrubbing power. The implication of essential oils greatly enhanced it’s smell
as indicated by the higher scent ratings for samples B and A.

The optional steps show great results for the mixture, adding vinegar providing better scrubbing
power and the addition of essential oils giving a much more pleasant smell to the mixture

Moreover, the application of vinegar to the mixture improved it’s scrubbing power much
more making it scrub harder to clean stains on plates like grease and other such things. Samples
B and D received higher scrubbing intensity , suggesting that the addition of vinegar to the
mixture made it more powerful in cleaning. This increased scrubbing power are desirable
qualities for liquid soap and other such cleaning products

Documentation and Observations

Careful and attentive documentation was maintained throughout this whole project,
recording materials and equipment and other such were used, measurements, and observations.

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This documentation provided transparency, repeatability, and valuable insights for future
changes and enhancements of citrus peel liquid soap

Table 4: Documentation Observations

Project Phase Observations

The longer the boiling of the citrus peels the better the
Citrus extraction
extraction.

The use of essential oils and vinegar greatly enhanced

Optional Steps
it’s use.

The peels were cut into smaller pieces to insure they

Fabrication
boil and get extracted better.
Maintaining documentation ensured better and more
Documentation Process accurate replications so we could repeat our
experimentations.

The observations presented in Table 4 highlight the key findings during each phase of the
project. Notably, The boiling duration helped in extracting more out of the citrus peels. The
choice of adding vinegar impacted the scrubbing intensity of the citrus liquid soap. Attentive
and careful documentation showed easy replication and provided valuable knowledge for future
enhancements of the liquid soap

These findings demonstrate the successful extraction of citrus peels, the positive effects
of optional steps such as the addition of vinegar and essential oils, the ease of fabrication, and the
importance of thorough and attentive documentation throughout the project. These results
contribute to effectiveness of Citrus peel liquid soap as a sustainable substitute for store bought
liquid soap

SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

SUMMARY

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this investigatory project aims to reduce citrus peels waste and reuse them as alternative dishwashing
liquid.the study focuses on exploring the potential of citrus peels as biochemical dishwashing liquid to
help lessen food wastes and for environmental safety.based on our results and findings,this
alternative
dishwashing liquid can effectively clean dishes without using chemical,just pure citrus peels. The product
reduces chemical waste, promotes biodegradability, and eliminates the need for synthetic
additives.Compared to store-bought dish detergents, this homemade citrus dishwashing liquid is non-
toxic and environmentally beneficial. Composed from organic materials such as citrus peels, it effectively
removes oil while being environmentally friendly and gentle to hands. There is no need for artificial
aromas because the citrus oils offer a pleasing, organic scent. It is also affordable, making use of easily
accessible household components to produce an effective cleaning solution. To improve foam and
lather, the basic formula can also be modified by adding plant-based surfactants, glycerin, or castile
soap. It is a sustainable and useful option for dishwashing because it is biodegradable, meaning it
decomposes automatically without affecting the environment.

CONCLUSION

The homemade citrus dishwashing liquid turns out to be a cost-effective, environmentally responsible,
and successful substitute for store-bought dish soaps, according to the analysis and results. Strong
grease-cutting qualities are provided by the natural citrus oils and vinegar, Because the product is free
of harsh chemicals and biodegradable, it has a lower environmental impact and is safer for aquatic
environments and consumers alike. It also provides a pleasing natural scent free of artificial fragrances.
All things considered, this dishwashing liquid is a useful and sustainable option for those wishing to
switch to more environmentally friendly cleaning methods.

The findings from the homemade citrus dishwashing liquid are consistent with previous research and
literature on eco-friendly household products, sustainability, and natural cleaning agents. According to
research, citrus peels naturally contain limonene, a substance with antibacterial and grease-cutting
qualities that enhances the product’s dishwashing efficacy. White vinegar’s significance in the
formulation is further supported by research on the cleaning agent’s acidity, capacity to dissolve grease,
and disinfect surfaces.Overall, the findings from this product are consistent with scientific research
advocating for natural, sustainable, and safe alternatives to commercial chemical-based dishwashing.

RECOMMENDATIONS

In order to improve the formulation’s ability to reduce grease and produce foam, future research could
concentrate on experimenting with different citrus kinds, varying the proportion of vinegar, and adding
different natural surfactants. Our research leads to a number of useful suggestions for householders and
scientists looking into environmentally friendly cleaning products. In order to customize the product’s
efficacy to their unique cleaning requirements, users are advised to experiment with ingredient ratios,
such as changing the varieties of citrus or the amount of vinegar. Furthermore, adding natural

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surfactants, such as Castile soap, can improve foaming and cleaning efficacy, making it appropriate for a
variety of domestic duties outside of dishwashing. Investigating the formulation’s adaptability for
future use may result in more extensive applications in multi-surface cleaning.

This project contributes to our understanding of how to use easily accessible, natural substances to
make a cleaning solution that is both efficient and environmentally beneficial. Citrus peels’ ability to cut
grease and their antibacterial qualities are confirmed, which offers empirical backing for the use of
plant-based ingredients in cleaning products. Additionally, the mixture provides a sustainable
substitute for traditional detergents, which frequently use harsh chemicals, potentially lowering health
and
environmental hazards.

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