Cogon Grass Cardboard Food Packaging

Abstract

The feasibility of cogon grass (Imperata cylindrica) as a substitute for cardboard food packaging was studied in this research project. The cogon grass was cut, boiled, and crushed in order to get the pulp. The pulp was then subjected to five different treatments before it was made into a card board like material. The amount of resin and other additives was kept constant while the amount of starch was varied in every treatment.

Introduction

Nonbiodegradable waste is a major concern everywhere in the world. The bulk of the world’s waste consists of the hard-to-break-down products, such as styrofoam. Styrofoam is commonly used as food containers in fast food restaurants. Because it cannot be recycled, this particular waste contributes largely to the world’s increasing garbage problem.

To lessen this environmental problem, one logical solution is to use biodegradable materials or recyclable ones. Paper is being reconsidered and encouraged for use. This material can be recycled over and over again. However, trees still need to be cut for paper production. This spells trouble for the already depleted forests. Because of this, the researchers thought of another alternative. This alternative uses cogon grass for making the pulp and the paper. Cogon grass is found abundantly in many places and is sometimes considered a nuisance.

Materials & Equipment

Selected References:

Lampe, Klaus. Making Paper from Rice Straw. Los Baños, Laguna: International Rice Research Institute, 1991.
McGraw-Hill Science and Technology Encyclopedia. New York: McGraw-Hill Book Co., 1981.
Rekka, M.M. et al., Blending Rice Straw Pulp with Some Egyptian Flora. Research and Industry 30 (2), 1985.

Further clarification of the procedures and results should be directed to the researchers and adviser.

Researchers:
Vanessa Gabieta
Hazel Pascual
Jericho Leo Reyes
Cecily Claire Tiu
Mildred Uy

Adviser:
Ms. Juanita Cruz
Philippine Science High School
Quezon City