SCIENCE INVESTIGATORY PROJECT

Prepared by:

ESPRILA, HEART L.

VIERNES, MARLA

VITACION, HARPER

BALIONG, AZRIEL AERYX

Submitted to:

MISS MARIA TERESA S. PERIAS, LPT

MR. DANILO P. MAHUSAY, LPT

MS. JENNY PEARL LANGIT, LPT

 Production of Biodegradable Bags Using

Cassava Starch Bioplastics

A Science Investigatory Project Presented to the Faculty of Our Lady

of Fatima Academy of Davao Inc.

Fatima St., Davao City

In Partial Fulfillment of the requirements on Science, Math and

English

ESPRILA, HEART L.

VIERNES, MARLA

VITACION, HARPER

BALIONG, AZRIEL AERYX

Grade 10- Our Lady of Mercy

2024 – 2025
 Abstract
In the past few decades, there has been a marked advance in the development
of biodegradable plastics from renewable resources, especially for those derived
from starch-based materials. The goal of this development is to obtain
biodegradable plastics that perform durability and consistency as well as
traditional plastics when in use and which completely biodegrade at disposal. We
heated the mixture of Cassava Starch with additives in low heat until it became
slimy. We transfer it to a mold and let it dry until it becomes microplastic. It
worked effectively but because of its low tensile strength, it is not recommended
to be used as a biodegradable bag but rather, a biodegradable sheet. In
conclusion, Cassava Starch is a great variable used as bioplastic, and you can
come up with different products out of it with the right modification.
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The researchers would like to take this opportunity to express their deepest gratitude to
everyone who has contributed to the success of this paper.

In relation to this transformative research journey, our heartfelt gratitude extends to our
family for providing us the materials needed and providing a comfortable space for us to
work in. To our friends and loved ones, your unwavering support has been our guiding
light, encouraging us to do well.

A warm acknowledgement also goes to Maam Jenny Pearl Langit and Maam Teresa
Perias for supporting us and guiding us in the process of making this project.

Lastly, We would like to express our profound appreciation to the researchers, for being
persistent even amidst the several struggles they have faced. Thank you to each and
one of you.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Title Page …………………………………………………………….. i
Acknowledgement …………………………………………………… ii
Abstract ………………………………………………………………. iii
Table of Contents …………………………………………………… iv

CHAPTER
1 INTRODUCTION
Background of the Study ……………………………………..
Statement of the Problem ……………………………………
Hypothesis ……………………………………………………..
Significance of the Study …………………………………….
Scope and Limitations ……………………………………….
Definition of terms ……………………………………………
Review of Related Literature ………………………………..
Conceptual Framework …………………………………….

2 METHODOLOGY
Research design ……………………………………………..
Data Gathering ………………………………………………
Data Analysis ………………………………………………..
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION ……………………………….
CONCLUSION and RECOMMENDATION …………………
REFERENCE/BIBLIOGRAPHY …………………………
 I. BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

Concerns for the environment and human health have grown as a result of the global

problem of plastic pollution in recent decades. According to the real- time data website

The World Count Web (2022) an estimated number of 300 million plastic bags are

thrown out into the ocean across the world every year. In fact, plastic bags are

considered to be one of the most prevalent and deadliest of ocean debris to a number

of marine animals, but especially to dolphins, turtles, and other cetaceans (The Pew

Charitable Trusts, 2018). Originating from petrochemical sources conventional plastics

can linger in the environment for hundreds of years causing harm to wildlife ecological

degradation and health risks to humans.

It has been known that the Philippines is one of the world's worst offenders on marine

plastic pollution, with 0.28 – 0.75 million tons per year of plastic entering the oceans

from coastal areas in Manila Bay. The country uses almost 60 billion sachets a year

(GAIA, March 2020). According to the World Bank, the Philippines, a country of over

7,600 islands and many communities living along coasts and waterways, creates over

2.7 million tons of plastic garbage each year, with 20% ending up in the ocean. This

phenomenon has been circulating for ages, because of the continued use of plastics.

Especially since it is known to be one of the most convenient and durable materials

invented. Nonetheless, the lack of supervision and public awareness about the reality of

plastic pollution in this country is also one of the main causes why Filipinos tend to act
irresponsibly and abuse their free will. Most probably because Filipinos stick to what is

easy rather than what is right. One of the most used plastics among the Philippines are

plastic cellophanes, which are used excessively everyday to cater their material goods

that need to be carried. But this so-called easy option is one of the most hazardous

materials known to marine life.

The Cleanergy Park in Davao City, also known as Pawikan Sanctuary, holds 20+

rescued Hawksbill endangered turtles. It is a place where these creatures have safely

found their home and sanctuary. The most common reason why they have been

rescued is because they mistake plastic cellophanes as jellyfishes, eating them and

eventually blocking their digestive system and risking their lives. Additionally, turtle

hatchlings do not effectively hatch because of the different garbage in the seashore that

prevents the baby hatchlings from hatching and seeing the beauty of life. That is why

they have been endangered because aside from their natural predators, plastic covered

shores is one of the main reasons how almost 1 out of 100 turtle hatchlings survive

adulthood (Olive Ridley Project, 2024). Making biodegradable bags from bioplastics

derived from cassava starch could solve a number of important problems with plastic

waste and environmental sustainability. Conventional plastic bags harm both marine

and terrestrial wildlife and clog waterways in addition to contributing to litter (Rakesh

Kumar, 2024). The environmental impact of plastic waste could be greatly decreased by

using biodegradable substitutes such as those derived from cassava starch.

 II. STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

The main objective of this study is to determine the effectiveness of using

Cassava Starch as the important variable in making bioplastics. More specifically, this

study aims to answer these questions:

1. Is it possible to effectively utilize cassava starch in the production of

biodegradable bags?

2. Is Cassava starch an effective variable in creating bioplastics?

3. Will Cassava Starch work more effectively than other starch materials to make

bioplastics?

III. HYPOTHESIS:

Null Hypothesis: Cassava starch-based biodegradable bags will demonstrate

comparable or superior performance to conventional plastic bags in terms of

biodegradability and environmental impact, while being economically feasible to

produce.

IV. SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

The study on the process of producing biodegradable bags by using cassava starch

holds many significant implications for various stakeholders including school, teachers,

students, and households. Understanding the impact that it brings can highlight the

broader expansion of benefits to the study and its

potential contributions to environmental sustainability. For Schools and teachers, the

project serves as an excellent educational tool for demonstrating principles of

sustainability, chemistry, and material science. Community Engagement: Schools can

use the project to promote environmental awareness and social responsibility within the

school community, encouraging students to engage in sustainable practices. For

Students/Researchers, This study provides encouragement among students to explore

innovative solutions to global challenges, such as plastic pollution, and develops critical

thinking and problem-solving skills. As we all know, discipline starts in the hearts of our

households. The researcher’s aims to spread awareness about the environmental

impact of excessive plastic usage in our home. Biodegradable bags made from cassava

starch can offer a more sustainable alternative to traditional plastic bags, reducing

household contributions to plastic waste and promoting environmental responsibility.

Understanding the benefits of using biodegradable bags can lead to more informed

consumer choices, helping households to adopt environmentally friendly practices in

their daily lives. It also increases their awareness in terms of plastic pollution which

encourages them to be more responsible and buy more sustainable products.

V. SCOPE AND LIMITATIONS

The scope of the science investigatory project focuses on creating biodegradable plastic

bags using cassava starch as the main ingredient. With the growing problem of plastic

pollution, the researchers aim to develop an eco-friendly

alternative that can help reduce the harmful effects of plastic waste on the environment.

The project involves extracting starch from cassava and using it to

produce bioplastics. The researchers will test the strength, flexibility, and durability of

the bioplastic bags created, as well as observe how quickly they break down when

disposed of. Through this, the researchers hope to determine if cassava starch-based

bioplastics can serve as a practical and sustainable replacement for conventional plastic

bags. However, the researchers also recognize that the project has certain limitations.

Since the researchers are conducting this on a small scale, they might not be able to

produce large quantities of bioplastics. The bags created may not be as strong or water-

resistant as the plastic bags commonly used, which could affect their everyday use.

Additionally, cassava starch can be costly or less available in some areas, making

large-scale production more challenging. Lastly, the testing period is limited, so the

researchers may not fully see how the bioplastic performs over a long period or in

different environmental conditions. Despite these limitations, the researchers believe the

project is a meaningful step toward finding safer and more sustainable alternatives to

plastic bags.

VI. DEFINITION OF TERMS

● Biodegradable: A material's ability to spontaneously break down into non-toxic

components by the activity of microbes such bacteria, fungus, and algae.

Cassava Starch: A polysaccharide obtained from the cassava plant's (Manihot

esculenta) tuberous root. Because of its high quantity of carbohydrates and ability to

decompose naturally, cassava starch is utilized as a starting material for the creation of

bioplastics.

● Bioplastics :Biodegradable plastics are defined as those that come from renewable

biological sources or are intended to degrade naturally. In contrast to traditional plastics

derived from petroleum, bioplastics are designed to be more ecologically friendly.

● Conventional Plastics: Plastics made from petrochemical sources that do not readily

decompose in the environment.

● Tensile Strength: The maximum amount of tensile (pulling) stress that a material can

withstand before breaking or failing.

● Flexibility: The ability of a material to bend or stretch without breaking. For

biodegradable bags, flexibility is crucial for practical applications, such as handling and

packaging.

● Composting Conditions: The specific environmental factors—such as temperature,

moisture, and microbial activity—under which organic materials decompose to form

compost.

● Economic Feasibility: The assessment of whether a production process financially

viable. In this study, it refers to the cost of producing cassava starch-based

biodegradable bags compared to conventional plastics.

● Environmental Impact: The effect that a product or process has on the environment,

including factors such as resource use, waste production, and pollution. The study will

assess how the use of cassava starch-based biodegradable bags influences

environmental sustainability compared to traditional plastic bags.

● Sustainability: The practice of using resources in a way that meets current needs

without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

By defining these terms, the study aims to clarify key concepts and ensure a shared

understanding of the terminology used in the investigation of cassava starch-based

biodegradable bags.

VII. RRL

According to recent studies, plastic has become a global issue in the world because it

has toxic properties and exhibits poor natural biodegradability, that it tends to

accumulate in landfills causing environmental problems and damage. The negative

impacts of synthetic plastic usage have prompted researchers todevelop bioplastics,

which are designed to be naturally degradable (Wojnowska-Baryła et al., 2022). The

issue of plastic pollution has become increasingly concerning in recent times. 400

million tonnes of plastic waste were generated in 2022, with 90% of it being fossil-based

polymers. This marks a record high for the plastic industry. Despite the implementation

of regulatory acts intended to decrease plastic production and usage in 2022, the high

volume of plastic waste could have been even greater. Furthermore, Plastics Europe
(2023) stated that the United States of America, China and the rest of South and East

Asia (except Japan), are among regions characterized by the highest plastic production.

There is no denying the fact that we are surrounded by an unimaginable mountain of

plastic waste. Focusing merely on big macroplastic is insufficient to understand the

whole issue of plastic pollution. Many recent scientific articles have been focused on

investigating smaller bits of plastic in the environment.

In a similar study of Sharmiladevi & Ramesh (2019), the obtained bioplastic have good

degradable capability, eco-friendly, and it will neither not cause any harmful effects to

the environment and human health nor it liberates toxic gases and the studies have

concluded that the use of bio plastic can result in 42% of reduction in carbon footprints.

Hence the material will be the best alternate solution for replacing plastics and more

concerned about the environment and eco friendly. Depending upon their properties can

be referred to as biodegradable, compostable, hydro-biodegradable photo degradable.

Biodegradable is one of the components of composting. Composting in addition,

requires disintegration of 90% of the material to size less than 2 mm, and also

mandates that the compostable material does not create any eco toxicity in the soil. By

composting bioplastics and other biodegradable waste, we can produce the organic soil

(humus) we need to replace littering our waste-rich earth. Compost-amended soil

benefits by increasing soil water and nutrient retention, reducing chemical inputs (drugs,

pesticides, etc.) and preventing plant diseases.

According to J. Sci. Res. Chula. Univ., Vol. 26, No. 2 (2001) 117, Modified cassava

starch was prepared from the reaction between starch and maleic anhydride using

sodium hydroxide as catalyst and water as solvent. After the reaction finished, the

product was neutralized with hydrochloric acid solution. Plastic sheets can be prepared

from the modified starch by casting. Preliminary studies on characteristics and some

properties of these plastic sheets were done using several techniques. It was found that

the amount of maleic anhydride plays an important role in changing the chemical

structures of the modified starch and the characteristics of the plastic sheets whereas

the reaction time does not affect them. The plastic sheets are fully biodegradable. They

are insoluble in typical solvents such as chloroform or in acidic solution at both room

and elevated temperatures while they are soluble in hot basic solution. It was also found

that modified starch-based plastic sheets have lower glass transition temperatures,

lower melting points, higher moisture absorption and higher hardness than unmodified

starch-based plastic sheets. [2] According to the most recent data

provided by INAPLAST (Indonesian Olefin Aromatic Plastic Industry Association), the

annual consumption of plastics in Indonesia was 4.7 million tons in 2015, rose to 5

million tons in 2016, and is predicted to hit 9.52 million tons in 2019. One remedy to

overcome the problem of plastic waste is by creating an environmentally friendly

alternative to conventional plastics, i.e. bioplastics (biodegradable plastics)

VIII. CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK

Figure 1.1 shows the variable of the study. It illustrates the Cassava Starch

Concentration and the Additives such as glycerol as Independent Variable of the

study, because this is the variable that remains constant within the experiment of the

study. On the other hand, the right box are the Dependent Variables of the study,

because these are the variables that change according to the independent variable of

the experiment.

IX. RESEARCH DESIGN

This research will employ Quantitative Research methods to evaluate the effectiveness

of Cassava Starch in producing biodegradable bags. Quantitative Research generally

relies on numerical data to gather insights that aid in understanding the needs of

people.
MATERIALS:

The researchers gathered different materials to be used in this experiment. Different

bowls were used as the container as we mix different sorts of products such as 120ml of

water, Cassava Starch, Vinegar, Glycerin, and Baking Powder.

PROCEDURES

 Gather materials:

o 120ml water

o 30ml Cassava Starch

o 10ml Vinegar

o Glycerin

o Blue food coloring

o Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate)

Preparation:

 Pour 120ml water into a bowl

 Add 30ml Cassava Starch to the water.

 Add 10ml Vinegar to the mixture.

 Add Glycerin as plasticizer.

  Add blue food coloring.

 Add Baking soda as additional plasticizer.

Heating & Molding:

 Fill a separate bowl with water and heat to 60-90°C on low heat for 5 minutes.

 Cover boiling water with a steel steamer hot pot.

 Place the Cassava starch mixture on the top layer of the steamer.

 Stir mixture for 10 minutes until texture becomes thick and slimy.

 Transfer mixture to a mold

 Cool and dry outdoors.

 Move to room temperature after daylight.

 Observe
X. DATA GATHERING

Test Description

A Placed in a silicone mold to dry

B Placed In a Plastic container to dry

C Placed in a Plastic container, with no food coloring

D Placed in a Plastic Container, with less food coloring

E Placed in a silicone mold, with less glycerol

Test Heating Time Blending Drying Texture
Time Time

A 10:47 minutes 2 minutes 5 days Dry, Thick, Smooth, Plastic rubber

like

B 10:47 minutes 3:04 minutes 5 days Dry, Thin, smooth

C 10: 15 3:20 minutes 5 days Dry, Very Thin,Transparent,

minutes

D 10:20 minutes 3 minutes 5 days Dry, Very Thin, Slightly blue

E 15 minutes 3:34 minutes 5 days Wet and slimy

The Table shows that Test A with the exact measurements have worked most effectively.

As we are aiming for a plastic like texture, Test A is more likely to come close to being

valid in being used as a biodegradable bag. In summary, the choice of drying container,

along with the presence and quantity of food coloring and glycerol, influenced the

texture outcomes. Silicone molds appear to lead to thicker, more rubber-like textures,

while plastic containers produce thinner, smoother materials. The use of food coloring

affects the final color, and glycerol plays a role in how well the material sets, with less

glycerol resulting in a wetter, slimier texture.

 XI. DATA ANALYSIS

 Test A: Mean = 2.5

Test A, with a silicone mold, results in the thickest and most rubber-like texture,

and has the highest mean score.

 Test B: Mean = 2.25

Test B, dried in a plastic container, produces a thin but smooth texture. It has a

slightly lower mean than Test A.

 Test C: Mean = 1.75

Test C, also dried in a plastic container and with no food coloring, has the lowest

mean, reflecting a very thin and transparent texture.

 Test D: Mean = 2.25

Test D, dried in a plastic container with less food coloring, results in a thin texture

with a slightly blue hue, and it shares the same mean as Test B.

`
  Test E: Mean = 1.5

 Test E, with less glycerol and a silicone mold, has the lowest mean, indicating

that the texture remained wet and slimy.

This analysis summarizes the impact of different drying conditions (e.g., container type,

food coloring, glycerol content) on the resulting texture. The mean scores help to

compare the thickness, smoothness, transparency, and overall outcome of each test.

The overall mean for all the tests is 2.05. This represents the average texture score

across all the conditions tested.

XIII. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Test Biodegradabilit Tensile Strength Tear Resistance Thickness Flexibilit Opacity

y y

A 4 4.5 4 4 4 5

B 5 2 1 2 1 5

C 5 1 1 2 1 1

D 4 1 2 2 1 2

E 3 0 0 5 1 4
  Test A- Placed in a silicone mold to dry

 Test B- Placed In a Plastic container to dry

 Test C- Placed in a Plastic cont ainer, with no food coloring

 Test D- Placed in a Plastic Container, with less food coloring

 Test E- Placed in a silicone mold, with less glycerol

Results
The experiment conducted by the researchers, which utilized cassava starch bioplastic,

was deemed effective due to the sustainability of cassava starch as a material for

producing biodegradable bags but needs modification and certain adjustments. The

sheet was tested for several physical properties, including strength and flexibility.

Although it worked as bioplastic sheets, it is not advised for daily use because it’s

tensile strength is not enough to carry different loads and it’s thickness is not suitable for

everyday use. The results from these tests are summarized as follows:

Sheet Strength and Durability: The cassava starch biodegradable sheet exhibited

moderate tensile strength. When compared to traditional plastic bags, the

biodegradable sheets were less resistant to heavy loads, breaking under a load of 50

grams. However, they were capable of carrying light-to-medium weights without

significant tearing or damage, such as when carrying a Christmas ball ornament. The
sheet showed moderate resistance to wear and tear, with some sheet starting to

weaken after prolonged exposure to stress.

Flexibility: The flexibility of the biodegradable sheet was found to be not- so

satisfactory. Although Test A and Test B sheets were able to bend and fold without

cracking or breaking, they were less flexible than typical plastic bags. However, the

starch-based bioplastics exhibited a natural rigidity that limited their usability in certain

applications.

Environmental Impact: The cassava starch biodegradable sheet was found to have a

significantly lower environmental impact compared to traditional plastic bags. They are

produced from renewable resources (cassava), and their decomposition results in fewer

pollutants. The energy consumption during the production of cassava starch bioplastics

was also considerably lower than that required for petroleum-based plastics.

XIV. CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION

The findings from this study indicate that cassava starch can be an effective and

sustainable material for producing biodegradable bioplastic sheets but not for bioplastic

bags. While the mechanical strength of the bioplastics may not yet match that of

traditional plastics, the bioplastics exhibit adequate strength and flexibility for various

applications, especially in the packaging industry.

The inclusion of natural additives such as glycerin and the use of low-temperature

processing contribute to the eco-friendliness of cassava starch bioplastics, enhancing

their performance while maintaining sustainability. However, further research is needed

to improve the strength and water resistance of the material for specific applications,

such as outdoor or moisture-sensitive products.

In conclusion, cassava starch bioplastics show promise as a biodegradable and

sustainable alternative to conventional plastics, continued refinement of the material’s

properties could expand its use in broader industries, offering a greener solution to

plastic waste management.

Some recommendations for future researchers is to consider silicone molds as the best

option if they would want to create bioplastics, as other varieties of molds and

containers would absorb it and would not be easy to peel off. Adjust to processing

conditions, one factor that may highly affect the texture of your bioplastic is the

temperature. To avoid over drying, cracks, and to ensure uniform thickness, the

processing conditions is one of most important things to consider. Lastly, correct and

proportionate measurements should be made, so that your experiment would work

effectively.

XV. BIBLIOGRAPHY

References (APA Format)

Plastics Europe. (2023, October 19). Plastics – the fast Facts 2023 • Plastics

Europe.

https://plasticseurope.org/knowledge-hub/plastics-the-fast-facts-2023/
Sharmiladevi & Ramesh (2019). Production of Bio Degradable Bags Using

cassava Starch. International Research Journal of Multidisciplinary

Technovation, 553–559. https://doi.org/10.34256/irjmtcon80

Wojnowska-Baryła, I., Bernat, K., & Zaborowska, M. (2022). Plastic Waste

Degradation in Landfill Conditions: The Problem with Microplastics, and

Their Direct and Indirect Environmental Effects. International Journal of

Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(20), 13223.

https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph192013223

Department of Materials Science, Faculty of Science, Chulalongkorn University,

Bangkok, 10330, Thailand.

J. Sci. Res. Chula. Univ., Vol. 26, No. 2 (2001) 117

https://www.thaiscience.info/Journals/Article/CJSR/1032423

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