Exploring the Ultimate Potential of Grass as a Sustainable Raw Material for

Paper Production

A Science Investigatory Project Presented to

In Partial Fulfillment
Of the Requirements in
Science 8

Amo, Zyan Ezequil S.

Abstract
In developing nations, around the globe schools are facing a shortage of paper resources which
hampers students’ access to educational materials completion of tasks and engagement in
practical learning experiences resulting in poorer academic achievements and the perpetuation of
poverty cycles while curbing future opportunities, for pupilś, Researchers have found a way to
create a sheet of paper using grass fibers.

Researchers, in the paper industry are looking into sources of raw materials due to the rising
demand and concerns about environmental impact beyond using just wood pulp as before. Grass
has caught their attention as an option because it grows quickly and is abundant in supply with
eco advantages and a good amount of cellulose. This research aims to uncover how viable grass
is as a material for making paper by studying its impact, on the environment and its economic
and technical aspects.

The study also looks into the feasibility of utilizing grass by conducting a cost benefit evaluation
that takes into account aspects, like farming expenses and processing costs for cultivation to
transportation and processing costs for harvesting it well as evaluating its potential to introduce
value added products that could help broaden the range of raw materials available, to both small
and large paper production companies.

This study emphasizes the impact that grass can have as an eco-renewable source, for making
paper products more sustainably viable, in the industry overall.

Acknowledgement
First and foremost, the researchers wish to express their deepest gratitude to God for His
unwavering guidance, strength, and inspiration throughout this research journey. Without His
grace, this work would not have been possible. We are thankful for the wisdom and clarity
provided at every step.

The researchers would also like to express their sincere gratitude to all those who contributed to
the completion of this research. The researchers extend their heartfelt thanks to their advisor, Mr.
Leo T. Salvaña, for his invaluable guidance, support, and encouragement throughout this
journey.

A special thanks to their schoolmates and friends, for their collaboration and for creating a
stimulating research environment.

The researchers would also like to acknowledge St. Mary’s Academy of Tagoloan for providing
the necessary resources and unwavering support. They appreciate the support of their family,
whose unwavering encouragement kept them motivated.

Lastly, the researchers also send their appreciation to their science teacher, Ms. Jessa Mae T.
Saraos, for her help, support, guidance and encouragement from the start and the completion of
the study.
 Table of contents

Title page i
Abstract ii
Acknowledgment iii
Table of Contents
Chapter 1 INTRODUCTION
A. Background of the Study 1
B. Statement of the Problem 2
C. Hypothesis 3
D. Significance of the Study 3
E. Scope and Limitations of the Study 3
F. Definitions of Term 4
Chapter 2 REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND STUDIES
A. Literature and Studies in the Foreign Setting
B. Literature and Studies in the Local Setting
Chapter 3 METHODOLOGY
A. Materials
B. Procedure
Chapter 4 RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
A. Finding
B. Analysis of Data
Chapter 5 CONCLUSION
Chapter 6 RECOMMENDATION
Bibliography
 Chapter 1 INTRODUCTION

A. Background of the Study

The global demand for paper products continues to surge, fueled by the packaging, printing, and
tissue production industries. And that massive dependence for paper-making raw material on
wood has raised major environmental issues like deforestation, biodiversity loss, and exhaustion
of natural resources. These challenges have led to exploring alternative sustainable raw additions
to produce paper with fewer negative impacts.

Grass is a promising alternative because it is abundant, grows quickly, and requires fewer
resources to cultivate compared to trees. Many grass species, such as carabao grass, frog grass,
and cogon grass, are rich in cellulose, which is a crucial component for paper production. Unlike
trees, grass can be harvested multiple times a year, making it a more renewable and sustainable
option. Additionally, grass can grow in areas unsuitable for other crops, reducing competition for
arable land and further enhancing its appeal as an environmentally friendly resource.

While the concept of using non-wood fibers to produce paper is clearly not a new one, attention
has been primarily directed towards crop residues such as rice straw and bagasse. Despite all the
merits of using grass, grass as a dedicated raw material for large-scale production of paper, has
not been fully explored. Initial research indicates grass-based paper may even reach wood-based
paper quality, but transitioning existing production systems presents additional hurdles, including
the need to adapt equipment.

The objective of this study is to investigate the potential of grass as a sustainable source of
paper-making fiber. This research, by exploring its environmental, technical and economic
feasibility, hopes to help clarifying how grass could turn into a promising substitute to wood.
This is something I think is so important as a student researcher, because something like this has
the potential to solve environmental problems in a new and sustainable way, so we can begin to
change the environmental crisis we face.
B. Statement of the Problem

Schools in underdeveloped countries often face a shortage of basic paper supplies. This lack of
materials creates challenges for students, such as limited access to learning resources, difficulties
in completing assignments, and reduced opportunities for hands-on activities. These barriers can
negatively impact students' academic performance and long-term prospects.

This study focuses on finding a sustainable solution by exploring the potential of turning grass
into paper. Specifically, it seeks to answer the following questions:

1. Can grass be processed effectively into usable paper?

2. How does the quality of grass-based paper compare to traditional paper in terms of durability
and usability?

3. What are the cost implications of producing paper from grass compared to conventional
methods?
C. Hypothesis

Null- Grass does not works as raw material for paper.

D. Significance of the study

The study aims to use grass as a sustainable and eco-friendly material to create paper. Grass,
being an abundant resource in rural areas are a great source of material for making and eco-
friendly product. The significance in the study is the utilization of grass as a eco-friendly
alternative material in making paper. This allows for economic and ecological benefits.

E. Scope and Limitations of the Study

This investigatory product explores the feasibility of using grass as the primary raw material for
paper making, specifically local species of grass. The project investigates the physical properties
of grass-based paper, such as it’s texture, strength, and biodegradability. T he study also assesses
the environmental benefits of using grass as an alternative to wood, focusing on it’s
sustainability and the reduction of deforestation. The paper is tested for common uses such as
writing and packaging, and the process includes steps like pulping, drying, and pressing to create
the final product.
F. Definitions of Terms

Conceptual Definition-

 Grass- vegetation consisting of typically short plants with long, narrow leaves, growing wild
or cultivated on lawns and pasture, and as a fodder crop.
 Paper- material manufactured in thin sheets from the pulp of wood or other fibrous
substances, used for writing, drawing, or printing on, or as wrapping material.
 Chapter 3 METHODOLOGY

A. Materials

1. Mold and Deckle

B. Procedure
1. Begin by cutting the blades of grass into smaller pieces with your scissors.Boil the grass
2. pieces and let it simmer for an hour or until it reaches a certain point of softness.
3. Cut and boil the okra in a separate container.
4. Strain the okra until only the liquid is left.
5. Place the grass unto a chopping board, then proceed to mash the grass until the pieces are 6.
smaller and softer. This will allow for easier blending.
6. Place the grass into a blender then proceed to blend the grass until it is as fine as possible.
7. Prepare the container by adding water. Pour in the blended grass then stir.
8. Pour in the liquid from the boiled Okra. This will allow for even distribution of fibers.
9. Position the mold, a frame with a fine mesh screen, and the deckle, a surrounding frame that
defines the paper's edges. Holding both together, dip the mold into the pulp mixture, gently
shaking it to evenly distribute the pulp across the screen. After lifting the mold out of the pulp,
allow excess water to drain. Carefully remove the deckle, leaving a wet sheet of pulp on the
mold.
10. Transfer the pulp in between cloth or felts, set it to dry in the sun.
11. Once dry, remove the paper from the felt/ cloth carefully.