Utilization of Corn (Zea mays ) cob and Cassava starch (Manihot

esculenta Crantz) as an Alternative Material for Bioplastic

An Experimental Study

In Partial Fulfillment of the requirements for Practical Research 2

Prepared by:

Agbalog, Raye Jewel E.

Buna, Kathy Therese D.

Ragmac, Janna G.

Trenchera, Seanne Laire M.

Valle, Khent Dave T.

Grade 12 STEM Researchers

Submitted to:

Christina Marie N. Enderes

Practical Research 2 Adviser

Alubijid National Comprehensive High School

Poblacion, Alubijid, Misamis Oriental

 CHAPTER l

The Problem: Rationale and Background

Background of the Study

Plastics, while useful, can be harmful to the environment and human

lives. All maritime governance is affected by the environmental and

socioeconomic effects of maritime plastic pollution (Tuisha et al.,2020). During

the plastic bags manufacturing process, the production of carbon and

numerous other hazardous gasses causes environmental issues (Jain et al.,

2015). More than a billion tons of plastic were discarded as waste materials

that could take hundreds of years to decompose. Plastics continue to make

up a continuously increasing part of municipal solid garbage. When plastic

wastes are disposed of in landfills, they react with water to create dangerous

compounds, which may have an impact on drinking water quality (Emadian et

al., 2017). As a result, there is a growing interest in developing sustainable

alternatives that can reduce environmental harm and promote circular

economy.

Biodegradable plastics are composed of starch, cellulose, chitosan,

and protein derived from renewable biomass (Azahari et al., 2011). The

development of most bioplastics is expected to reduce fossil fuel

consumption, plastic waste, and carbon dioxide emissions (Atenisha et

al.,2021). The biodegradability of these plastics has a favorable impact on

society, and the knowledge of biodegradable packaging draws researchers

and industries (Siakeng et al,. 2019). Currently, bioplastic accounts for about

0.5 percent of the almost 400 million tonnes of plastic produced in one year.

On the other hand, the market is steadily expanding as a result of increased

demand for sophisticated biopolymers for a variety of applications and goods.

It is estimated that the overall bioplastics fabrication volume will be around

2.18 million tonnes in 2023 to approximately 7.43 million tonnes in 2028.

Bioplastics may be openly taken out from natural resources like lignins,

proteins, lipids, and polysaccharides (e.g., starch, chitin, and cellulose)

(Johansson et al., 2012).

Corn (Zea mays ) cobs is a part of corn where the corn kernels grow.

Which are often discarded as an agricultural waste because it is not typically

eaten like the corn kernels. Vendors typically focus on selling the corn kernels

, leaving the corn cobs unused and discarded. However, the researchers

came up with an idea that there are other ways to use the corn cobs into

something valuable by exploring their potential use in making bioplastics. This

process involves using the natural components of corn cobs, such as

cellulose and hemicellulose, to create bioplastic. Cellulose is a linear polymer

composed of glucose units, while hemicellulose is a branched polymer

consisting of various sugar units, including xylose, mannose, and galactose

(Klemm et al., 2005). These polymers can be extracted through chemical or

enzymatic processes and then modified to create bioplastic formulations. In

addition to their potential as a raw material for bioplastics, corn cobs are also

a sustainable and renewable resource. As a byproduct of corn production,

utilizing corn cobs for bioplastic manufacturing reduces waste and contributes
to a circular economy, where waste is minimized, and resources are reused or

recycled (Geyer et al., 2017). This approach aligns with the principles of

sustainability and can help mitigate the environmental impact of traditional

plastic production and disposal. This study aims to investigate how corn cobs,

which are usually disregarded, can be repurposed to create biodegradable

plastics. By finding a new purpose for corn cobs beyond their traditional use,

we can contribute to reducing the waste of corn cobs and promoting

sustainable practices in plastic production.

Conceptual Framework

The independent variable of this study refers to the corn (Zea mays) cobs and

cassava starch (Manihot esculenta Cranzt) which will serve as a binding

agent in this study will be incorporated. There will be 3 setups in total in which

each treatment varies in amount of corn cob and cassava starch used and

same amount of glycerol, vinegar, water, and lemon extract. The result or the

dependent variable which is the production of bioplastic and its flexibility,

biodegradability, and tensile strength will then vary depending on the

independent variables which are manipulated in different quantities.

INDEPENDENT VARIABLE DEPENDENT VARIABLE

 Corn (Zea mays) cob  Production of Bioplastics
 Cassava starch (Manihot  Bioplastic’s flexibility,
esculenta Cranzt) biodegradability and tensile
strength.

INTERVENING VARIABLE
Amount of corn cob and
cassava starch used in
making of bio-plastic
1.2 Statement of the Problem

This study aims to determine if corn cob and cassava starch are effective

ingredients in producing a bio-plastic. Specifically, it aims to answer the

following:

1. Will the bioplastic produced from the corn (Zea mays) cob and cassava

starch (Manihot esculenta Crantz) be efficient and effective in terms of

tensile strength, flexibility, biodegradability, and hardness?

2. Is there a distinct characteristics of the bioplastic derived from corn

(Zea mays) cob and cassava starch (Manihot esculenta Crantz) in a

conventional plastic?

3. Which of the following measurements will produce a desirable output

on production of bioplastic out of corn (Zea mays) cob) and cassava

starch (Manihot esculenta Crantz); treatment 1, treatment 2, or

treatment 3?
Objectives of the Study

This study aimed at finding answers to the following objective:

1. To test the efficiency and effectiveness of bio-plastic produced from the

corn (Zea mays) cob and cassava starch (Manihot esculenta Crantz) in

terms of tensile strength, flexibility, and biodegradability.

2. To determine the distinct characteristics of the bioplastic derived from

corn (Zea mays) cob and cassava starch (Manihot esculenta Crantz) in

a conventional plastic.

3. To identify the suitable measurement that will produce a desirable

output for the production of bioplastic through varying the different

amounts of corn cob and cassava starch.

1.3 Hypothesis

 Null Hypothesis - The utilization of corn (Zea mays) cob and

cassava starch (Manihot esculenta Crantz) for Bioplastic

production will not be efficient and effective in terms of tensile

strength, flexibility, and biodegradability.

 Alternative Hypothesis – The utilization of corn (Zea mays)

cob and cassava starch (Manihot esculenta Crantz) for

 Bioplastic production will be efficient and effective in terms of

tensile strength, flexibility, and biodegradability.

Significance of the Study

The results of this research will improve society considering the implications

of the excessive use of plastic. It can lower the percentage of plastic waste disposed

of everywhere by producing biodegradable plastic from "corn cob and cassava

starch." Given how long it takes for plastic composed of natural gas and oil to

dissolve, Mother Earth would suffer. In order to minimize the strain on Mother Earth

and to promote a healthy ecosystem, this research will be crucial. More significantly,

this study will show the effectiveness, usefulness, and resilience of an

environmentally friendly plastic derived from corn cob and cassava starch.

This study will also benefit the future researchers to navigate deeper and

open the door to numerous unexplored avenues in the development of green

materials, bio-resin developments, clean technology, and other allied

subjects. Building upon these foundations, future researchers have a chance

to help and contribute in order to make the future more sustainable and

innovative.
Scope and Limitation

This study will only focus in using corn (Zea mays ) cob and cassava

starch (Manihot esculenta) in bioplastic production. The tensile strength,

flexibility , and biodegradability are the factors to be tested in the sustainable

bio-plastic. The study is restricted only to plastic used for packaging goods

exclusively and the usage of the plastic to stimulate a commercial plastic bag

is not covered by this study.

In this study, only the corn cob and cassava starch were used with

varing amounts and same amount of glycerol, vinegar, water, and lemon

extract used on different setups to get a more desirable output. This study did

not include any other parts of corn. The researchers focused their research

solely on the production of bioplastics while also utilizing the addressed

materials. The materials required to manufacture the product are within the

reach of the researcher and are gathered in the public market.The data is

collected from the biodegradability tests. The cost data is also recorded.
Definition of terms

For the purpose of clarification, the important terms used in this study have

been defined both technically and operationally.

● Biodegradability Test. Refers to the extent to which a material can be

broken down by microorganisms in the environment. The test involves

exposing the material to microorganisms, typically under controlled

conditions, and monitoring the rate and extent of its degradation over

time.

● Natural-Based Plasticizers. These terms refer to the additives used in

the study, namely vinegar and glycerin, to increase the quality of the

soluble sheets.

● Tensile Strength Test. Refers to the maximum stress that a material

can withstand under tension before it breaks or fractures. The test

involves applying a steadily increasing force to a specimen of the

material until it breaks, while measuring the force and the

corresponding deformation or elongation of the specimen.

● Bioplastics. An innovative type of plastic that is manufactured from

renewable biological materials including plant materials that have been

 designated for biodegradation and environmentally friendly as

compared to the standard plastics.

● Sustainability. The act of check and balance of resources whereby

resources are used in the current society without being depleted in a

way that the future generation cannot harness them.

● Cassava starch (Manihot esculenta crantz). A starch made by

leaching and dying the root of the cassava.

● Corn Cobs. The main stalk or trunk or the plant from where the grains

or kernels are yielded which is usually left behind as stalks or stumps

once the grains have been harvested from the field.

● Glycerine. It is a sweet syrupy trihydroxy alcohol obtained by

saponification of fats and oils.

 CHAPTER II

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

This chapter presents the related literature and studies after the

thorough and in-depth search done by the researchers. This will also present

the Justification of the proposed study for better comprehension of the study.

Foreign Related Literature and Studies

The growing concern over plastic pollution has led to increased interest

in developing bioplastics as environmentally friendly alternatives to synthetic

plastics. Biodegradable plastics, which break down into non-toxic components

such as carbon dioxide, methane, water, and biomass through microbial

action, are emerging as a solution to reduce plastic waste. However, despite

their potential, bioplastics alone are not a comprehensive answer to the

plastic pollution crisis and require further research to optimize their properties

and usability (Folino et al., 2020).

Microplastics, a result of synthetic plastic degradation, have been

found in marine environments and pose significant risks to marine

ecosystems. The GESAMP report highlighted the need for better sampling
methods and further research on the ecological and economic impact of

microplastics, particularly in commercial seafood (Kershaw et al., 2015). This

points to the importance of developing alternative plastics that do not involve

micro-pollution.

Many studies have focused on plant materials to make bioplastics.

Sultan et al. (2017) investigated the use of banana peel and corn starch in the

production of bioplastic films, and found that films with 4% corn starch had the

highest strength and water resistance. This study shows that combining

starches from different sources, such as cassava starch and corn cob, which

is the main component in this study, can produce effective bioplastics.

A study titled "Analysis of the Nutritional Components of Corn Cobs"

conducted by Lai et al. (2011), highlights that starch is one of the main

components found in corn cobs. The analysis confirmed that starch is a

significant nutritional component of corn cobs, indicating that they can serve

as a source of carbohydrates in the diet. The researchers found that the

starch content in waxy corn cobs is approximately twice as high as that in

non-waxy types. This suggests that different varieties of corn cobs can have

varying levels of starch, which may influence their nutritional value. On the

other hand, a study analyzed and concluded that the starch content in corn

cobs contributes to their classification as a carbohydrate source, similar to

how corn kernels are categorized. While the kernels are the primary source of

starch in corn, the cobs still contain a significant amount, making them a
valuable component of the corn plant in terms of nutritional value and

potential uses (Tiffany Lau, 2019).

As stated by Schon (n.d.), preliminary experiments were conducted to

create bioplastic from starch using a polymer, plasticizer, solvent, and acid. A

6% acetic acid solution was used to release acetate and hydrogen ions, which

disrupt the starch polymers, resulting in a more homogeneous cast film. The

resulting bioplastic showed flexibility and density, making it suitable for

various daily life applications.

In addition, Manimaran et al. (2019) investigated the production of

bioplastics from banana peels, which showed rapid degradation compared to

conventional plastics. This is in line with the goal of researchers to produce

biodegradable materials that reduce the environmental impact of plastic

waste. The mechanical strength and environmental safety of bioplastics are

important considerations for the development of alternative materials, such as

corn and cassava materials. The role of fillers, such as glycerol, in improving

the mechanical properties of bioplastics has been widely studied. For

example, Tarique et al. (2021) investigated the use of glycerol in arrowroot

starch layers and found that the flexibility, durability and uniformity of the

layers increased. Osman et al (2021) also showed that optimal concentrations

of glycerol and corn starch can improve the mechanical properties of plastic

films, a finding that is relevant for this research to develop biofilms. Long and

flexible from corn and cassava starch.

 Moreover, Kleij et al. (2024) devised a new method for generating

polycarbonates from limonene and CO2, a natural substance. Limonene,

obtained from lemons and oranges, could replace bisphenol-A (BPA) in

polycarbonate manufacture. BPA is banned in France, Denmark, and Turkey

owing to environmental concerns. Despite the process’s complexity, the

progressive substitution technique has the potential to result in the

development of novel biomaterials with similar or increased qualities.

Research has also investigated the use of reinforcing fillers such as

cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) to improve the tensile strength and water

resistance of biomass. Augustin et al (2014) developed bioplastics using

starch and CNC from rice straw and showed that CNC can increase the

mechanical properties of the layers. While this research focuses on corn cob

and cassava starch, the principles of improving bioplastic strength and

durability through the use of natural reinforcements are applicable.

Local Related Literature and Studies

The World Bank Group (2021) highlighted the Philippines’ "sachet

economy," driven by single-use plastics, as a major contributor to the

country’s marine pollution. The Philippines generates 2.7 million tons of

plastic waste each year, with a significant portion ending up in the ocean. To

tackle this issue, the nation is moving towards a circular economy and

evaluating the potential of increasing plastic recycling.

 One of the most pressing issues in the Philippines is the rampant use

of polyethylene plastics, which have contributed to widespread environmental

problems like flooding. Researchers have turned to the development of

bioplastics as a potential solution to this crisis. Ramiro et al. (2019) aimed to

create an environmentally friendly, biodegradable plastic from cassava and

assess its viability as an alternative to polyethylene.

The Bureau of Agricultural Statistics (BAS) reported that corn

production in the Philippines reached 2.28 million metric tons in the first

quarter of 2014. Despite such large-scale production, most focus is placed on

using only the corn kernels, leading to the underutilization of corn cobs, which

account for 20-30% of the corn ear's weight. In the Philippines, maize cobs

are typically used as fuel, but much remains wasted. Repurposing these cobs,

such as using them to make bioplastics, could mitigate this agricultural waste

(De Leon et al., 2014).

Finally, the need for eco-friendly practices in plastic production and

waste management is evident in global discussions on plastic pollution. In

countries like the Philippines, where plastic waste is a significant issue, the

shift towards bioplastics and sustainable materials is crucial for reducing

pollution and promoting a circular economy (Guevarra et al., 2022).

The increasing accumulation of synthetic plastics contributes to

environmental degradation and waste management issues. Bioplastics made

from corn cob and cassava starch offer a promising alternative, providing a
biodegradable solution to minimize the negative environmental impacts of

traditional plastics.

CHAPTER III

METHODOLOGY

This chapter concentrates on the discussion of the research methods

and procedures adhered to by the researchers in order to answer

systematically the specific problems posted for investigation. Specifically, the

research method, research instrument, data gathering procedure, and

interpretation were explained in this chapter.

Research Design

The researchers method for this study was experimental research. As

per Arikunto (2013), experimental research is a study designed to determine

whether a variable has an effect. It refers to the conceptual framework in

which the experiment is carried out. This strategy was chosen because it is

applicable to the problem. The experimental method used in this study

intended to investigate whether it is possible to make biodegradable plastic

from local plants.

Research Setting

This research study was conducted in Ragmac’s Residence, located at

Zone 7, Poblacion, Alubijid Misamis Oriental to extract the experimental study

about the effectiveness of corn cob and cassava starch as an alternative

material for bioplastic in terms of tensile strength, flexibility, biodegradability,

and hardness.

Research Instrument

The materials needed in this study were the following: Corn cob,

Cassava starch, Glycerol (Propan-1,2,3-triol), White vinegar (acetic acid),

Calamansi, Distilled water, Food coloring, Stove, Saucepan, Spatula,

Measuring cups and spoons, Knife, Blender, Oven, Container (or any flat

surface).

Data Gathering and Procedure

Extraction of Powder from Corn Cobs

 The material used in this research is corn cobs. Approximately 1kg of

corn cobs were obtained from a vendor who sells corn. These cobs were

discarded after the corn kernels were removed. To prepare the corn cob

powder, the corn cobs were first washed thoroughly. Then, they were

chopped into small pieces before being blended with water until smooth. The

resulting mixture was then sieved to remove any large pieces. To remove the

water after blending, a sieve or strainer was used. The blended mixture was

poured through the sieve or strainer, allowing the water to drain through while

catching the corn cob powder. After sieving, the corn cob powder was dried

for 3 hours. Once dried, the resulting powder was ready to be used for making

biodegradable plastic.

Production of Bio-plastic

To begin, 80g, 85g, and 95g of corn cob powder and 60g, 70g, 80g of

cassava starch were carefully measured using a measuring spoon for each

different set-ups respectively. 10ml of white vinegar were weighed out.

Vinegar acts as an ionizer, making it easier for the starch to dissolve. 7.5 ml of

lemon juice were also weighed out. These ingredients were combined in a

saucepan and mixed thoroughly with a spatula. Separately, 15ml of glycerol

were mixed with 75ml of water in a bowl. The mixture was stirred until well

combined. Glycerol serves as a plasticizer, enhancing the flexibility,

resilience, and overall handling of the bioplastic (Arham et al., 2016). The
glycerol mixture was then added to the saucepan containing the starch,

vinegar, and lemon. The mixture was stirred to remove any lumps. At this

stage, the mixture had a runny consistency. The saucepan was placed on the

stove with the heat set to medium-low. 1 & ½ cups of the glycerol mixture

were measured out using a measuring cup and added to the saucepan. All

ingredients were combined and stirred continuously using a spatula. The

mixture was gently brought to a boil. As the mixture heated, it became more

translucent and started to thicken. The heat was removed once the mixture

became clear and thick. This process typically took around 3-4 minutes. Food

coloring was added to the mixture to give it a desired color. The mixture was

then poured into a container and spread out to cool for approximately 3 hours.

During the cooling process, the plastic dried and hardened. After the cooling

period, the bio-plastic was ready for use.

CHARACTERIZATION OF SYNTHESIZED BIOPLASTIC

Tensile Strength Test

The purpose of the test is to find out how much force is needed to pull

the bioplastics till they break. The metrics that will be assessed are the

percentage of elongation and Young's modulus maximum force (N). The

following formula (Guoha et al., 2006) can be used to compute the tensile

strength and elongation:

The tensile strength was determined by:

 F
T=
S

Where, F = Maximum ultimate breaking force (N); S = Cross -

sectional area (m^2).

Flexibility Test

The sample is gently bent to observe its deformation. In a weighted

bend test, a weighted object is placed on the sample's center, and the sample

is then carefully bent upwards from both ends. A larger bend angle indicates

greater flexibility. Repeating the test on multiple samples and recording any

cracking or deformation provides a more comprehensive evaluation of the

bioplastic's flexibility.

Biodegradability Test

The biodegradable behavior of bioplastic can be determined using a soil

burial degradation test, in which bioplastic is buried in soil and degrades fully.

Degradation testing determines the level of damage to bio-plastics. The

damage can be detected in the mass reduction of the specimens buried in the

ground. Bio-plastics will be buried in the earth at a depth of 7 cm, with burial

times varying (2, 4, and 8 days). Prior to burial, the original mass (mass

before degradation) will be calculated. The final mass (mass after

degradation) of the bioplastics will be determined later. Any changes in

 mechanical characteristics caused by the degradation process were

monitored, and once the bio-plastics were entirely decomposed, the

biodegradability was assessed. Per Suryanto et al. (2016), the following

formula can be used to determine the biodegradability of the bio-plastic:

Final Mass−Initial Mass

Microbial Resistance (%) = ×100
Initial Mass

Treatments Corn Cassava Glycerol Vinegar Lemon Water

Cob Starch

1 80g 60g 15ml 10ml 7.5ml 90ml

2 85g 70g 15ml 10ml 7.5ml 90ml

3 90g 80g 15ml 10ml 7.5ml 90ml

Table 1. Measurements of the different components of the treatments

Formula (Components’ Measurements)