1

CHAPTER I

THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND

Introduction

Coconut, scientifically known as Cocos nucifera is crowned the “tree of life” as

all of its components serve a significant purpose. From fruits to leaves; no part is being

left unused. It is in demand everywhere as it can be utilized in a myriad of ways.

Evidently, coconut established itself as a commodity around the globe. It has been

propagated in 92 nations with more than 10 million hectares. One of the countries with

the greatest production of coconut is the Philippines which had been acknowledged as the

second largest coconut manufacturer amassing 75% of the world coconut production

together with India and Indonesia. The Philippines, being an agricultural country,

highlighted the coconut production and has put it on a pedestal as it played one of the

crucial roles in sustaining the national economy. Moreover, it has been placed among the

top ten exports of the country (Zafar, 2015).

On the other hand, there is a component of Coconut which is yet to be fully

explored– the Coconut fiber. Coconut fiber or COIR is a derivative from coconut, a

fibrous material extracted from the coconut husk, discarded as waste by-product of

coconut plantation used to manufacture floor mats, doormats, geo-textiles and utilized in

horticulture. Despise its staggering uses, it still has potentials that have been left

unlocked. Unfortunately, this situation is further exacerbated as various natural calamities

and phenomena ravage the country, deeply affecting the coconut industry; prompting low

yield and worse, being left behind by other coconut producing countries. Consequently,

the country is at a loss with nations that have fully exploited the abilities of coir products.
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According to Philippine Coconut Authority (2011), the country is lacking in terms of

volume of coir product exports compared to leading coconut exporters such as Sri Lanka,

India, Thailand and Indonesia. In 2011, Philippines manufactured only 6,037 metric tons

of coir export products from 15.245 billion nuts harvested from 3.562 million hectares of

land. On the contrary, one of its formidable competitors, Sri Lanka, created a whopping

120,616 metric tons of coir export products from 2.707 billion nuts out of 0.395 hectares

of land setting a vast difference in terms of resources. Ironically, the Philippines that has a

great agricultural advantage lost the upper hand in dominating the global market.

Redeeming and obtaining a greater hold in the domestic and international markets

of coir products, the government is taking measures and setting prospective goals to

catapult the Philippine coir production industry to a much higher stature. The 3 rd National

Coco Coir Summit held last 2016 led by the Department of Trade and Industry and

Philippine Coconut Authority presented opportunities to local and foreign investors to

optimize the hold of coir products in the market. In addition to that, in the past summits

held it was discussed how a convergence between departments is necessary to achieve

their aims. One of integral partner of PCA and DTI is the Department of Science and

Technology (DOST) that is mobilized to find latent products from coir (Department of

Trade and Industry, 2016).

The search for possible products to get out of coir prompted the researchers to

conduct a study focusing on using coconut fiber as a material for cellulose insulation.

Cellulose insulation is a commendable alternative to fiberglass with the main purpose of

insulating and reducing heat loss or heat gain of a structure by lowering the thermal

conductivity of the chosen material, rendering it resistant to fire. Cellulose has been
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tested to be permanently fire resistant and is ratified by various building codes and is

deemed more fire-safe than fiberglass. Cellulose Insulation’s integrity is mainly described

by its R-Value which measures its resistance to heat flow. The higher the R-Value, the

greater insulation it provides. Other than this, it increases tensile strength and effective

soundproofing. It provides a more affordable and nature-friendly proposition for thermal

problems in the comfort of many houses and beyond.

The idea of this research was inspired from a prior study emphasizing

newspapers’ potential as a material for cellulose insulation accounted in UMass Amherst

Department of Environmental Conservation. It is stated there that cellulose insulation is

more “green” and it discourages the spread of fire because the cellulose is tightly packed

compared to others. On the latter part of the study, a downside is shown when using

newspaper as it is found that the cellulose insulation’s thermal conductivity deteriorates

upon exposure to wet environment deviating from the incumbent property of cellulose

insulation: moisture resistance (Fisette, 2005).

The researchers would test if the coir will post the same behavior and the study

will mainly dwell on the capabilities of coconut fibers as a material for cellulose

insulation.

Other than this, the increase in the need for renewable resources prompted various

research studies scrutinizing and innovating alternative products from a plethora of

biomass. It had been found that biomass, which involves coir, demonstrates great

qualities. Polymer, an example of cellulose insulation, has been found to wield great

characteristics as its components are made up of biomass. The properties being given

great focus is the high lignocellulosic content together with lignin and hemicellulose
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which has promising physico-chemical properties superior to that of petroleum-based

compounds (Ten &Vermerris, 2013).

The contents aforementioned exhibiting impeccable quality can also be seen in

coconut fibers as it is a biomass yet hasn’t been explored deeply. Despite this, it can be

seen that the Coir has the makings of promising cellulose insulation and just needs further

study to be fully understood.

The researchers saw the potential of coconut fiber as a biomass residue whose

chemical components show content of high cellulose, lignin, pyroligneous acid, gas,

charcoal, tar, tannin, and potassium. The coir’s high cellulose content makes it an optimal

choice for cellulose insulation. More importantly, coconuts are abundantly available in

the vicinity which would be helpful when administering the study. Through this, the

coconut fibers can further be put into scrutiny and investigation to discover its potential

which was overlooked before. In addition to that, this can lessen the waste brought by

disposing this component of coconut (Zafar, 2015)

In relation to this, cellulose insulation’s resurgence is due to the increase in cost of

plastics and environmental implications exhibited by it in the industry.

This study can contribute revolutionary ideas to the coconut fiber industry,

boosting it to the top of the global market. By doing so, a new material for cellulose

insulation can maximize and unlock another mystery in the uses of coconut. Also, this

can provide additional knowledge to the field of construction and the likes, giving light to

a new ingredient in constructing another material for cellulose insulation apart from foam

boards, plastic fibers, natural fibers, polystyrene and the likes.

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This study will help maximize resources for greener and cheaper cellulose

insulation just like in some countries such as Canada where it is gradually being

patronized for being cost-efficient. Some construction companies in Canada gained great

reputation for utilizing cellulose insulation especially in their walls. The dense-packed

cellulose insulation in walls showed satisfactory performance making it more ideal for

wall reinforcement. The high performance is characterized by the following:

impermeable sound barrier created by the insulation and thermal conductivity which

makes the heating or cooling faster. Furthermore, it gives a good R- value which

considerably comes at a reasonable cost (MacCallumm, 2014).

Once this study unlocks the wonders of Coconut fibers as a material for cellulose

insulation, this can be mass produced and purchased by foreign investors and buyers and

at the same time be sold to locals at a lower cost. The rise of this innovation can further

be of great use for bettering infrastructures and buildings considering the country is in

great need of sturdy structures which can withstand great adversaries such as natural and

geological disasters. This would potentially satisfy that desperate need for a greater

construction material.

Statement of Problem

The main objective of this study is to develop cellulose insulation with the use of

coconut fibers. Specifically, this study aims to answer the following questions:

1. What are the specific characteristics of coir that makes it an alternative for

making cellulose insulation?

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2. What is the difference between the developed coir cellulose insulation and

commercialized fiber glass in terms of:

a. Thermal Resistance

b. Flammability

c. Moisture Resistance

d. Cost

3. Which concentration of coir yields to a better cellulose insulation in terms of

the characteristics mentioned above?

a. 25%

b. 50%

c. 75%

4. Does the innovated cellulose insulation exhibit greater properties than the

commercialized rockwool fiber insulation?

Significance of the Study

This section provides the essence of conducting the study for it would be of great

help to the specified people. The results of this study would greatly affect and be

beneficial specifically to the following:

Engineers. This refers to engineers who have great involvement in the construction firm.

Using this study, engineers would be able to build infrastructures made from materials

that are environment-friendly and at the same time has the same or better quality than the
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commercially-available fiber glass. This would help them to choose a safer material for

constructing but also a material that can be compared to the fiber glass used in most of

the groundworks they craft.

Future Engineers. Aspiring students who choose to take a path related to Science and

Engineering would greatly benefit from the research for they would be able to use the

study as a basis for utilizing used materials such as Coir for innovating and creating new

ideas out of it. They would be able to use this paper as a reference for making cellulose

insulation with further modifications.

Environment. By making use of resources that are usually thrown out and neglected, for

instance disposing Coir fiber by burningit would contribute in the deteriorating state of

the environment. Coir has been known as a waste by-product of coconut and this would

suffice coconut fiber with a more efficient role other than being just disposed of.

Economy. If the research became successful and reach other countries, the demand for

the coconut production will increase and we may have a better economy. It can bring the

country to the top. The coconut exportation will increase and cause the country to have

better economy.

Researchers. The researchers will be the primary beneficiaries of this study. The study

can bring them success and knowledge about a new innovation in the field of science,

technology and agriculture. The students who are currently taking the STEM strand and

are aspiring to be scientists, engineers, innovators, and such, will be a step closer to their

dreams.
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Future Researchers. This study can serve as one of the related studies of the future

researchers who will investigate about the same study. This may have some parts to be

modified that can give a room for improvements by these future researchers.

Scope and Delimitations

The experimentation of the study was conducted in Malinta, Valenzuela City

under one of the researchers’ residences last October 6, 2018. The bourn of this study was

to manipulate coconut husk as the primary property of cellulose insulation. Cellulose

insulation ensures the reduced building heat loss and gain, and reduced noise

transmission. The purpose of this study is to propose that coconut husk can be property

for cellulose insulation.

The study used various approaches that produced pleasingly results but the

researchers only limited it to four different tests: R-value and thermal resistance, fire

resistance, moisture resistance and cost. The included tests were limited only up to three

trials. The study was narrowed to the extent of the researchers’ knowledge about cellulose

insulation and coir fiber.

Definition of Terms

The following terms are the ones considered crucial for understanding the study.

These are defined to induce familiarity with the concepts for easier understanding.

Respectively, terms are defined conceptually and operationally.

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Bioremediation. According to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), bioremediation

is a “treatment that uses naturally occurring organisms to break down hazardous

substances into less toxic or nontoxic substances.” It is a process or technique used in the

study to demonstrate how the researchers will use coir fiber as an alternative component

for making cellulose insulation. From the root word “remedy”, the study uses coconut

fiber as a solution to hazardous component coming from the components of plastic where

most fiber glasses are made of. The study uses no chemicals and at the same time allows

bioresidues to be recycled.

Cellulose Insulation. Known to be environmental friendly for it is nontoxic and

affordable, making it a smart alternative for fiberglass (Fisette, 2005). The alternative for

fiber insulation which shall be made in the study using differing concentrations of

coconut fiber.

Coconut. According to Merriam-Webster Dictionary (n.d.), it is a large fruit that has a

thick shell with white flesh and liquid inside it and grows on a palm tree. The fruit from

which the main component of the alternative cellulose insulation is derived from and the

source of coconut fiber.

Coconut Fiber. This fiber can be acquired from the fibrous husk of the coconut from the

coconut palm which has high amount of lignin (Transport Information Service, n.d.). This

is the main component of the alternative cellulose insulation which would be tested in

different concentrations for determining its properties.

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Cost. Technically speaking, cost is the amount of money that is needed to buy something.

In this study, the total expense for making the alternative cellulose insulation compared to

commercialized product of the same kind.

Fire Resistance. It is the ability of a structure to withstand the adverse effects in the

event of a fire. The property of cellulose insulation made from coir fiber to resist fire

which will be measured afterwards.

Moisture Resistance. A test used to evaluate the resistance to the deteriorative effects of

the high-humidity and heat conditions typical of tropical environments. The property of

cellulose insulation to not deteriorate in terms of quality due to moisture.

Thermal Resistance. It is a measure of how resistant a material to the transfer of heat

across it (Designing Buildings, 2018). This refers to the low thermal conductivity of the

alternative cellulose insulation cellulose insulation which shall be measured to determine

how the insulation reacts to heat change.

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Chapter II

THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK

The development of the study should not be plainly based on groundless facts and

information. The study should be anchored to prior studies, thus, the researchers gathered

related literature, studies and theories relevant to the study to consolidate the foundation

of the research study. Subsequently, the following information and findings from the

authorities consulted had been put in scrupulous analysis and interpretation.

This chapter will mainly focus on the integral pieces of data which will support

and reinforce the assumptions of the researchers.

Relevant Theory

This quantitative study bears great resemblance with preceding research studies.

The only difference is the main material utilized in the creation of the thermal insulation.

Nonetheless, the theories employed in the associated research can also be used in this

study. The researchers deemed the relevant theories as helpful in explaining the

phenomenon or trend exhibited by the Coconut Fiber Thermal Insulation.

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Cryztallization. Crystallization is likewise synthetic strong fluid, in which mass

exchange of a solute from the fluid answer for an unadulterated strong crystalline stage

happens. In concoction designing, crystallization happens in a crystallizer.

In invention outlining, crystallization occurs in a crystallizer. Crystallization is

moreover manufactured solid liquid, in which mass trade of a solute from the liquid

response for an unadulterated solid crystalline stage happens.

R-Value. In principle, the higher the R-Value, the more noteworthy the opposition and

protection. R-Value means how the material can withstand the diverse elements that

debilitate a divider. The R-Value is tried in the lab in this way putting forth the expression

of the r-esteem to be legitimate and solid.

On a fundamental level, the higher the R-Value, the more significant the restriction

and security. R-Value implies how the material can withstand the different components

that weaken a divider. The R-Value is attempted in the lab along these lines advancing the

statement of the r-regard to be true blue and strong.

Coconut Fiber. White and Knutsson's (1982), "Hypothesis of Thermal Conductivity,

Heat Conduction and Convective Heat Transfer in Fiber Filled Polymer Composites" said

that the fiber introduction influences the warm conductivity of the fiber-filled composite.

In addition, irregularities with the situation of fiber introduction in the composite can

respect non-homogenous warm conductivities.

One of the hypotheses expressed with respect to the mechanics of cellulose on the

fiber makes the protection adaptable to various sorts of catastrophes. Relating the

hypothesis of cellulose to the atomic association of a plant cell.

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In an earlier report, Percolation Theory had been utilized rather than

dissemination hypothesis which can't clarify the system of dampness retention in the

minute structure of characteristic strands. Permeation Theory was made use to evaluate

the significant fiber proportion which will show a solid dampness assimilation and

dispersion instrument.

Inconsistencies with the condition of fiber introduction in the composite can

respect non-homogenous warm conductivities. "Theory of Thermal Conductivity, Heat

Conduction and Convective Heat Transfer in Fiber Filled Polymer Composites" it is said

that the fiber introduction impacts the warm conductivity of the fiber filled composite.

Relating the theory of cellulose to the atomic relationship of a plant cell. One of the

speculations imparted with respect to the mechanics of cellulose on the fiber makes the

security flexible to various sorts of fiascos. Immersion Theory was affected use to

evaluate the tremendous fiber to degree which will exhibit a solid drenched state

assimilation and diffusing instrument. In an earlier report, Percolation Theory had been

utilized rather than dispersal hypothesis which can't clear up the plan of dampness upkeep

at the time structure of trademark strands.

Related Literature

It is of mandatory significance to coalesce related information that will reinforce

the claims and assumptions of the researchers which are mainly anchored to the

hypotheses constructed prior this section. Stated in this part are the related literatures

regarding the topic of the study. This part will deal with the information interconnected

with the indispensable variables in this study, namely: cellulose insulation and Coconut
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fibers. The following literature had undergone critical and intensive scrutiny and

selection.

Cellulose Insulation

Cellulose has been abundantly exploited and resourced for to be utilized in a

plethora of ways but one is in construction.

Cellulose is known to be the most commonly used material for construction.

People may not be aware of this, but wood is made of cellulose and often used for

building infrastructures (Santos 2017).

This has paved the way for creating environment-friendly crafts which managed

to be patronized throughout the world. This was opted for use as an alternate for defects

which brought dissonant and disagreeable yields. One accounted record displaying

cellulose as a better material is exhibited during years prior the current era.

Due to health issues in 1980, the use of asbestos for fiberglass was banned. To

seek an alternative for fiberglass, cellulose made of reused plant fiber was able to keep up

with the durability of fiberglass (Lehmann 2015)

This showed how cellulose fared well as it bolster its way for a great reputation,

especially in the cellulose insulation firmament. Being sought for as an alternative in a lot

of things encouraged more studies to be conducted vowing to unlock other hidden

wonders of cellulose.

Below are the example literatures stating studies that manifest the cellulose’s

ability as subjected into scrutiny and extensive research.

The wettability and moisture properties of different fiber materials: hemp,

cellulose and mineral wool were tested. Though mineral wool has the largest contact
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angles that indicates strongly hydrophobic properties, cellulose fibers prove that the

stabilization process of being wet is shorter than the two materials showing exemplary

performance under study (Brzyski,Kosińskiand Duliasz 2018, 1-3).

On the other hand, the method of forming fire-resistant product is mixing

cellulose fibers and a liquid mixture including salt particles. The salt particles are

substantially removed from the cellulose product which then forming porous. The porous

cellulose product is interacted with a fire-retarding solution, such that the fire-retarding

solution is substantially uniformly distributed there through (Baroux and Hubbard 2010).

Being used as a fire retardant explains how cellulose is vastly known to be fire-

resistant and is often studied to determine the physico-chemical compositions governing

the mentioned ability to resist fire.

Cellulose Insulation presents itself as a great alternative for construction as stated

from the literature above. It is an advantage since its main constituent is cellulose which

is immensely abundant especially in every plants. On the other hand, other than being

opted for in a myriad of studies, it has been subjected to research. Cellulose is found to be

fire-resistant and exhibits a lot more beneficial characteristics which would be of great

use. Cellulose’s properties have been exposed to the scientific society and would play an

integral role in guiding another cellulose insulation’s emergence as a new innovation.

Cellulose Insulation has been known since the past but it could be surmised how it would

be a breakthrough once another study in this area has been put into light.

Coconut Fiber

The product of a standout amongst the most helpful trees on the planet, coconuts

prosper on the seashores in sodden tropical districts. There is a contradiction among

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botanists whether the species is local toward the East Indies and Melanesia, as favored by

most, or to tropical America. The Philippines, India, Mexico, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka

are presently the principle developing and sending out nations (Mercado 2018).

Regardless of where this valuable treasure originally sprouted, it will still be the

tree deemed the most useful. For a considerable length of time individuals living in

coconut developing areas have profited from numerous employments of the coconut tree.

Not one part of this tree goes unused from the fruits to leaves are altogether used to some

degree. From therapeutic and embellishing to form and magnificence, making it known

as “tree of life” (Churchill 2012, 11-14)

It has been widely propagated in 92 nations on about 10 million hectares. One of

the countries with the greatest production of coconut is the Philippines who has been

acknowledged as the second largest manufacturer, amassing 75% of the world coconut

production together with India and Indonesia (Zafar 2018, 16-18).

Getting all the focus in this study is the coconut’s fiber. The coconut fiber has

been proven plump for future lucrative use but other than that it is also an enigma meant

to be explored through study. There had been studies regarding this and has showed

promising results which justifies why it was chosen by the researchers as the main

material for cellulose insulation.

While many people say a person need coco coir-specific nutrients, this isn’t

absolutely necessary. People can get away with the standard (Espiritu 2016).

In a literature review, the constituents of coconut fiber that makes it a component

for polymers (hemicellulose,cellulose and lignin) has been put into light and given

justifications why each contributes to the physico-chemical properties of the coir fiber.
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Furthermore, the fiber’s strain rate, tensile strength and percentage elongation had been

observed and measured (Jayavani, Deka and Varghese 2015, 3296-3309).

This compilation of reviews has been helpful for proving the coconut fiber’s

worth as a potential material for cellulose insulation.

Lastly, a literature considering the rewetting ability of the coconut fiber.

The product has good emulsifying properties and had potential to find

applications in emulsified food as an ingredient. Moreover, coconut and peanut shell

powder could be used as filler in natural rubber. Another indication on the rewetting

ability of the material is the rehydration rate. Some work is being done on a rewetting

indicator calculated from the unsaturated hydraulic conductivity (Baas, Weaver and

Block 2008, 245-290).

Coconut fiber just like any part of the coconut is of impeccable and important use.

But it isn’t just for trivial use as it has greater uses once it has been fully explored and

scrutinized. The use of Coir in this study is of no worry as the Philippines is a cornucopia

of the said plant. Furthermore, its properties show formidable response from the study

and research it has been through. As aforementioned, its strain rate and tensile strength

has been put into test which would be a useful reference once the cellulose insulation has

been finalized. Other than that, another literature took into account is rewetting ability or

the way it handles moisture which would also be of great reference once the

experimentation commences. The coir exhibits great qualities which would be of

substantial factor once the cellulose insulation has been finally crafted.

It can be concluded that it is a viable study to undertake for the Philippines has an

abundant supply of coconut and the use of coconut fiber for a greater purpose will greatly
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help the science community and subsequently help the business sector come up with

lucrative enterprise mainly marketing the coir-based cellulose product. In addition to that,

the mentioned literature reinforces the claim that coconut fibers can be used for cellulose

insulation. Thereby consolidating the take of the researchers to venture in making

cellulose insulation out of coconut fibers.

Related Studies

As it is a prerequisite to collect related literature to strengthen the assumptions of

this study, it is also imperative to gather related studies whose findings and results shall

prove vital to reinforcing this study. Furthermore, the studies sought are found to be

associated with the primary variables of the study, specifically: cellulose insulation and

coconut fiber. The linked studies shall help explain the factors and qualities the

researchers have seen that prompt them to undertake the study. The following studies

accounted for have gone through scrupulous selection and introspect.

Cellulose Insulation

Coconut husk is known to be one of the largest waste products in the Philippines.

Since, it is a common waste product in the market, most of them dispose coconut husk by

burning it. It is known for having high lignin content making it not easily degradable

taking many years to decompose. Due to this property of coconut fiber, it imposes

environmental risks and disposal problem (Sathesh and Murugesan 2010, 519-24).

Cellulose insulation calls for a study of the material’s moisture resistance as

shown in various studies.

Cellulose fiber is prone to mold because of high instances of moisture which the

fungus will habituate that will affect the insulation property of the material.
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Chemithermomechanical softwood pulp compromising thermal and fungal resistance

which then proves that the cellulose fiber-based insulation materials with improved

properties in terms of fungal, improved water resistance and reaction-to-fire properties is

possible to produce (Zheng 2017).

This goes to show how important it is to check the moisture integrity of the

material and how does it fare with moisture for it can compromise the quality of the

cellulose insulation once it responds negatively to moisture.

Other than the moisture resistance, another defining quality of cellulose insulation

is its thermal conductivity. In this related study, creation of biodegradable cellulose

aerogels was conducted. The main material used was multiple paper wastes. The aerogel

is highly absorbent, absorbing 18–20 times its weight in liquid, also making the product

absorb polar and non polar liquids. The aerogel is macroporous and has low thermal

conductivity (Duong et al. 2014, 128-134).

From the brief and concise studies above, it can be assumed that the qualities

being eyed in cellulose insulation is the moisture resistance and thermal conductivity.

Cellulose insulation’s definitive properties are the ones to be primarily accounted for

during the study. The moisture should be checked in order to reassure that the cellulose

insulation’s integrity won’t be compromised due to the moisture. On the other hand, the

most important of all is the thermal conductivity which is also associated to the R-Value.

These two shall be recorded and observed once the final product has been brought into

reality.

Coconut Fiber
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There are prior studies about cellulose in plants other than coconut . Cotton and

viscose which are cellulose and regenerated cellulose respectively have related thermal

properties to thermal behaviour of fabrics. The results obtained indicate that heat transfer

through the fabrics is highly related to both capillary structure and surface characteristics

of yarns a continuous package of short fibers, as well as air volume distribution within

the fabrics (Poparić,Popović and Stanković 2007, 41-48).

On the other hand, coconut fibers are mainly utilized in horticulture which justify

studies about its properties concerning horticulture. When sodium, chloride and

potassium levels are high in the coir, these elements have to be leached from the substrate

before it can be used as a growing medium. When coir first became available as a

horticultural substrate, this leaching was done with water; later it was found that some of

the K and Na were in exchangeable form so that today it is leached with water containing

a cation, usually calcium nitrate (Maher, Prasad and Raviv 2008).

Furthermore, there are also studies about the thermal property of coconut as

observed together with sugarcane bagasse.

Thermal Analysis was employed to study the pyrolysis of sugarcane bagasse and

coconut fiber and to describe its thermal behaviour and main constituents by means of

their thermogravimetric curves. Their heat capacity was also determined using DSC. The

following processes showed two mass loss steps ascribed to their release of humidity and

to the decomposition of organic material (hemicellulose, cellulose and lignin (Mothé and

lara 2009, 200-213).

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On the other hand, another associated study was conducted concerning the tensile

strength and adhesive ability of Coconut fiber as exposed to different concentrations of

akali treatment.

Brown coir fibers had been subjected to an alkali treatment to test its adhesive

ability. The concentration of the treatment was divided into five: 10%, 8%,6%, and

4%,2%. The 10% concentration alkali treated coir exhibited a loss in tensile strength

compared to the latter which showed no significant change. This study has shown how

the tensile strength is compromised as the ideal adhesive ability is being attained (Gu

2009, 3931-3934).

Consequently, this serves as a caution in adjusting the adhesive ability of coir for

the tensile strength will experience regressions.

Brought upon by the properties and compositions of coir showing adsorbtion, it

was put to study. The study focused on coconut fiber’s properties to determine if it is a

possible adsorbent for As (III) contaminants in aqueous system. To strengthen this, the

sticking probability model was employed to evaluate the coconut fiber’s ability as an

alternative for adsorption (Igwe and Abia. 2007, 22-26).

On other studies, there is an observed increase in the Relative Crystallinity,

Storage Modulus and Glass Transition as the fiber content increased. Moreover, the

Thermal Stability has enhanced due to the increase in fiber content. On the contrary, the

damping decreased as the fiber content increased (Lomelí-Ramírez 2014, 576-83).

To summarize, chemical treatment can change the surface morphology of coconut

fiber to become rougher though its mechanical strength decreases slightly (Arsyad 2015,

169-177).
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Coconut fiber has been put into various studies imparting consequential

information which would later help in creating cellulose insulation out of the Coir.

Noteworthy data emphasizes that the tensile strength or mechanical strength of the

coconut fiber-resourced material can change depending on the chemical treatment to be

employed. Tensile strength lessens as adhesive ability increases. On the contrary, the

increase in coconut fiber yields lesser moisture.

From the studies exploring the properties of coconut fiber, it adds up to the

validity of having coconut fibers used as cellulose insulation. It can be concluded that the

coconut fiber material to be used for cellulose insulation shall exhibit qualities as foretold

in the prior studies. The properties to be observed on the final product includes the R-

Value which stands for the measure of the thermal conductivity of the material and the

moisture resistance of the material which makes itself necessary to determine if there will

be a compromise in the integrity of the product once moisture gets in the way. Overall,

looking at the promising responses of the coconut fiber to the tests and experimentations

it has gone through, it can be surmised that the material to come into fruition from this

study shall bear great and likewise promising qualities.

Conceptual Framework

The layout of the study is illustrated through the research paradigm. This provides

the overall view of how the research will run its course from the initial stages of

brainstorming and determining the variables to the final phase of concluding whether to

accept or reject the hypothesis Changing

with theof
Changing concentration
ofobtained of
of Coconut
information
concentration Coconut from analyzing the data.
fiber in every insulation.Gathering
fiber in every insulation. Gathering
different
Proving the coconut
Input
Different different tests to
to evaluate
evaluate the
testsProcess the coconut
coconut Output
fibers to be a smart
Different fiber as an effective component
fiber as an effective component and effective
concentrations of alternative
concentrations alternative to
to cellulose
cellulose insulation:
insulation:
coconut fibersof Thermal Resistance component
Thermal Resistance alternative to
coconut fibers.
Flammability Feedback cellulose insulation
Flammability
Moisture
Moisture Resistance
Resistance
Cost
Cost Feedback
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Input Process Output

Figure 1. Conceptual Paradigm of the Study

The researchers will conduct the experiment using different variations of coconut

fibers’ weight in the testing. The experiment will conduct multiple test to ensure the

credibility of the coconut husk to be a component alternative for cellulose insulation.

After several analyses on data, the output of the research will be the coconut fibers to be a

smart and effective component alternative to cellulose insulation.

Hypothesis of the Study

The hypothesis is formulated based on the statement of the problem which is to be

either rejected or accepted depending on the results of the experimentations and statistical

treatment.

The hypothesis for this study is as stated:

There is a significant difference between the properties of the innovated coconut

fiber insulation and the commercialized fiber insulation.

 24

CHAPTER III

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

The study will go through a series of procedures which will then proceed to data

analysis. In connection to this, the methods to be undertaken shall be written intricately to

entail what processes, instruments and interventions are to be utilized in a mannerly

sequence. Prior to the experimentation, it is imperative to describe the following points to

give a foresight of what is expected to be seen in the later sections.

This chapter mainly dwells in the design of the study, all the steps the data need to

be subjected to and steps necessary to execute the procedures. Previous studies were

consulted to ascertain what design suits this study best.

Methods and Techniques of the Study

In order for the objectives of the study to be gratified, the method of experimental

research design was used. Experimental research is any research conducted with a

scientific approach, where a set of variables are kept constant while the other set of

variables are being measured as the subject of experiment (Bhat, 2018).

 25

Specifically, the researchers used the quasi-experimental research design. The

design, which measures the difference between two variables. Thus, there wouldn’t be

any random sampling to be employed. Instead, only the manipulation of variable and

control group will be present in the experimentation.

There will be a manipulation of variable which will be seen when coconut fiber is

used as the main component of the cellulose insulation. On the other hand, the control

group will be the commercialized fiber glass from a company marketing, Rockwell

insulation, which will receive no intervention and such. The two will be examined to

determine the difference in the qualities being observed or measured.

Population and Sample of the Study

The researchers produced 120g of cellulose insulation included with different

concentrations: 25%, 50%, and 75% of coir fiber. The sample of the study is the nine

grams of each concentration in preparation for the set-ups.

Research Instruments

The researchers have constructed a miniature version of the insulation. The goal

of the research is to differentiate the quality of the fiberglass and cellulose insulation not

to gain large amount of insulation products. The researchers will be presenting prototypes

of fiberglass insulation as the control group and three experimental groups which are

cellulose insulation made up of 25%, 50% and 75% concentration of coir fiber. Each type

of setup will be having twelve models for thermal resistance, flammability and moisture

resistance tested in order to compare the effectiveness and efficiency of cellulose

 26

insulation made up of varying concentration of coir fiber and each setup will have three

trials for every afore mentioned qualities.

For thermal resistance, it requires an ice, utility lighter, container and beaker. The

materials needed for the measuring of moisture resistance are weighing scale, container,

timer and water. The utility lighter and timer were reduced for the flammability test.

Data Gathering Procedure

Three tests were conducted to measure the products’ quality and efficiency: test

for thermal resistance, test for moisture resistance, and test for flammability. In

conducting the tests, comparison of the cellulose insulation and fiberglass insulation was

done.

Due to lack of appropriate measuring instruments to assess and gauge the certain

qualities for comparison, the researchers will make use of the prototypes to obtain the

necessary information.

Test for thermal resistance. In insulating products, thermal resistance come off as

a big factor to consider the insulation a great one. To measure the thermal resistance of

the insulation, the test consists of an ice, container and utility lighter. Four different

variables are tested, namely the 25%, 50%, 75% concentration of coir fiber in the

cellulose insulation and fiberglass insulation. Out of the 120g of cellulose insulation

samples produced, three nine grams of 25%, 50%, 75% coir fiber cellulose insulation

were tested together with the fiberglass. The insulation was placed under the ice and over

the utility lighter. The insulation is heated for three minutes and as the heat flows through
 27

the insulation, the ice on top of the insulation melts and the collected water will be the

one measured. Three trials were conducted for each sample.

Test for moisture resistance. The test was done to the three samples with different

concentrations of coir fiber: 25%, 50% and 75%. The samples measuring eight grams

were subjected to five milliliters of water and the final weight, attributing the water to the

insulation was determined. The corresponding test for each samples were repeated for

three trials. Moreover, the commercialized fiber insulation had also been measured and

exposed to water.

The difference between the original weight and final weight for every sample was

compared including the commercialized insulation to evaluate which demonstrated the

greatest moisture resistance.

Test for flammability. The researchers made three samples with unique

concentrations: 25%, 50% and 75%. The three samples measuring two centimeters by

one and a half centimeters by one centimeter for its length, width and height respectively

were placed under 1,438 degrees Celsius fire. The final sizes of the samples were

measured after a minute. The procedures on each concentration were repeated for three

times. The steps were also done for the commercialized fiber insulation and measured as

well.

The final length, width and height of the coir fiber for every trial was observed as

well as the commercialized insulation to make a conclusion which of the two different

products showed better fire resistance.

 28

The results of the tests shall be further evaluated to know which demonstrates

superior characteristics and if the innovated cellulose insulation is near enough to be a

replacement for the fiberglass insulation.

Data Processing and Statistical Treatment

The post gathering of data will present the process which includes the tabulation

of the different data. The independent variable will be the cellulose insulation with coir

fiber as an additive and the dependent variable will be the quality of the product,

comparing the result between the cellulose insulation with the property of coir fiber and

fiberglass.

The study focuses on the significant difference between the two related variables

based on their respective thermal resistance, moisture threshold, and flammability. The

researchers will use the paired t-test as the statistical treatment of the study. The statistical

tool will serve as a test for the difference between two related variables.
 29

CHAPTER IV

PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION OF DATA

The coir fiber insulation underwent various tests to assess its properties as

compared to the commercialized rockwool insulation. The results and findings presented

in this section is to be interpreted. This will show the analysis of the data collected from

the trials of coir fiber insulation in different concentrations.

Part 1: Properties of Coconut Fiber Useful in Cellulose Insulation

Table 1. Properties Tested

Property
Fire Resistance
Thermal Resistance
Moisture Resistance
Cost
 30

Part 2: Testing Properties of Two Different Cellulose Insulation

Table 2. Fire Resistance

Thickness (mm)

Set-up Before After

1 1.5 0.9
2 1.5 1.4
25% COIR
3
Fiber 1.5 1.4
75% Boric Acid
1 1.5 1.4
2 1.5 1.5
50% COIR
3
Fiber 1.5 1.3
50% Boric Acid
1 1.5 1.495
2 1.5 1.46
75% COIR
3
Fiber 1.5 1.5
25% Boric Acid
1 1.5 0.9
2 1.5 1.1
Fiberglass
3
1.5 1
Insulation
 31

The cellulose insulation of different concentrations had been exposed to fire of

1450 degrees Celsius. The table shows the original thickness of the insulation and the

aftermath after the exposure to fire. Clearly, there is a downgrade in the thickness of the

insulation denoting how the fire consumed the surface part of the cellulose insulation.

The after column shows what remained of the burned surface.

Table 3. Mean of the Thickness of the Variables

Thickness (mm)
Before After
Set-up

25% COIR Fiber

1.5 1.3
75% Boric Acid

50% COIR Fiber 1.5 1.4

50% Boric Acid

75% COIR Fiber 1.5 1.5

25% Boric Acid

Fiberglass Insulation 1.5 1

 32

The table displays the mean of the three trials per sample. The first table was

summarized into this one. The table indicates that the 75-25 concentration endured the

fire the most and it shows superiority over the fiber insulation.

Table 4. Thermal Resistance

Weight (g)

Set-up Before After

1 9 10
2 9 11
25% COIR
3
Fiber 9 12
75% Boric Acid
1 9 9
2 9 9
50% COIR
3
Fiber 9 9
50% Boric Acid
1 9 10
2 9 9
75% COIR
3
Fiber 9 9
25% Boric Acid
1 0 3
2 0 1
Fiberglass
3
0 2
Insulation

The weight accounted was from the water the ice contributed to the insulation

when put under high temperature. The test desires to determine if the heat from the fire

will penetrate through the insulation and heat up the ice.

Table 5. Means of the Weight of the Variables

 33

Weight (g)
Before After
Set-up

25% COIR Fiber

9 11
75% Boric Acid

50% COIR Fiber 9 9

50% Boric Acid

75% COIR Fiber 9 9

25% Boric Acid

Fiberglass Insulation 0 2

The table indicates the mean or average weight of the samples for the three trials.

As shown in the table, 25-75 cellulose insulation had the highest accounted weight after

the testing while fiberglass had the highest accounted weight after exposure to the fire.

Table 6. Moisture Resistance

Weight (g)

Set-up Before After

1 8 11
 34

25% COIR 2 8 12
3
Fiber
8 10
75% Boric Acid
1 8 13
2 8 11
50% COIR
3
Fiber 8 12
50% Boric Acid
1 8 14
2 8 14
75% COIR
3
Fiber 8 14
25% Boric Acid
1 0 4
2 0 5
Fiberglass
3
0 3
Insulation

The moisture resistance measures how much humidity or moisture the cellulose

insulation can hold. The table shows how the change in weight of the cellulose insulation

when it absorbs water. Thus, the denser or the higher the weight the insulation gets the

more water it absorbs.

Table 7. Means of the Weight of the Variables

Weight (g)
Before After
Set-up
8 11

25% COIR Fiber

75% Boric Acid

 35

50% COIR Fiber 8 12

50% Boric Acid

75% COIR Fiber 8 14

25% Boric Acid

Fiberglass Insulation 0 4

The table indicates the summarized mean or average of the weight accounted for

every sample after the test. The table shows that 75-25 cellulose insulation gained the

most weight. On the other hand, 25-75 concentration has the lightest weight.

Part 3: Concentration Exhibiting the Greatest Quality

Sample 1 (25%-75%) 2 (50%-50%) 3 (75%-25%)

Rank 2 1 3

The table shows results of different tests. The sample with the 50% concentration

of coir fiber showed the greatest qualities while the 75% concentration yielded the least

level of performance.

Part 4: Difference Between COIR Cellulose Insulation and Commercialized Insulation

 36

The overall performance of the coir cellulose insulation showed superior

properties when compared to the commercialized fiber insulation. This denotes that the

coir insulation can be a better alternative than the commercialized one.

CHAPTER V

SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

This chapter deals with the eliciting of meaning and implications from the

preceding chapters. This will discuss the conclusion of the study and the

recommendations.

Summary

Laid out in this are the summary of findings and results together with its

implications. This section shows which tests and data answers the questions stated in the

statement of the problem in the introductory chapter.

Explanations are provided to elaborate how the corresponding tests answered the

parallel statement of the problem question.

 37

1. What are the specific characteristics of coir that made it an alternative for

making cellulose insulation?

The crucial properties the researchers chose to study were fire resistance, moisture

resistance, thermal resistance and cost. The corresponding characteristics were observed

in the two different insulations, the coir cellulose insulation and the commercialized

rockwool fiber insulation.

2. What is the difference between the developed coir cellulose insulation and

commercialized fiber glass in terms of:

a. Thermal Resistance

b. Flammability

c. Moisture Resistance

d. Cost

The properties measured and tested were: the fire resistance, moisture resistance,

thermal resistance and cost. The three properties showed superior performance when

tested. The fire, thermal and moisture resistance of the innovated cellulose insulation

showed promising results. On the last note, the cost of the coir cellulose insulation was

found to be more affordable since commercialized insulations are purchased in big

quantities while the prototype of the coir insulation cost less.

3. Which concentration of coir yields to a better cellulose insulation in terms of the

characteristics mentioned above?

 38

a. 25%

b. 50%

c. 75%

Summarizing all the data, the concentration which exhibits the most promising

quality is the 25-75 coir insulation. The said insulation showed the greatest resilience and

resistance towards the adverse effects of fire, heat and moisture.

The insulation from the coir fiber also shows superiority over the commercialized

insulation when subjected to the same tests.

4. Does the innovated cellulose insulation exhibit greater properties than the

commercialized rockwool fiber insulation?

Overall, the observed properties from the data gathered showed that the Coconut

Fiber Cellulose Insulation displays greater qualities compared to that of the

commercialized rockwool insulation. Moreover, the innovated insulation is found to be

more affordable than the commercialized one.

Conclusion

The Coconut Fiber Cellulose Insulation exhibits a significant difference in quality

compared to the commercialized rockwool insulation. The innovated insulation shows

significantly greater properties than the commercialized one.

Recommendations
 39

The study introduces Coconut fiber as an alternative material for cellulose

insulation. Its properties that render itself a promising main component for cellulose

insulation were noted. Other than this, it was compared to commercialized fiber

insulation to establish difference between the qualities of the two from the tests it

underwent. Despite this ingenuity, the study can still be improved and upgraded.

Important notes were taken to constructively evaluate the product, including

better alternatives and ideas which were not used or employed in this study. The

researchers came up with the recommendations to suggest more efficient ways to be

enforced in this study. The recommendations are solely based on what appeared and what

had been encountered by the researchers on the course of testing and studying.

1. Other properties manifested by the coconut fiber insulation can be accounted for

other than what was observed in this study. This is advised to widen the scope and

gap of difference between the innovated insulation and commercialized

counterpart and to vividly see which is superior.

2. Consulting licensed testing centers to execute the testing for the study is highly

suggested especially when dealing with high quantity samples. The centers will be

able to provide professional help to the study. Specifically, testing centers have

skillful knowledge on how to deal with the chemicals and evaluations and they

have complete set of calibrated equipment and machinery necessary for this type

of research which will yield more accurate results.

 40

Also, when dealing with fire during the fire resistance or thermal resistance test, it

is suggested to use high-intensity fire to see how long the insulation will hold

when exposed to high temperature.

3. Widening the range of different concentrations of coir fiber in every cellulose

insulation would increase the probability of pointing out which is the optimum

concentration of coconut fiber that attributes the greatest qualities in a cellulose

insulation.
4. The significant difference between the involved products can be further shown

through the use of additional tests, and statistical treatment.

5. As imperative in every study, the materials should be prepared beforehand. The

researchers want to emphasize this as the coconut fiber is not easy to be found.

Coconuts in the market should still be subjected to mechanical processes to

siphon off the coconut fibers in it. Thus, contacting coconut fiber-selling

companies is more efficient.

6. Preparing samples in higher quantity is ideal to fully maximize its use and to

provide more reliable results when the said samples were tested. It isn’t just

quantity that can be upgraded, putting additives is optional but the addition of

these will greatly help raise the quality of the insulation. Paraffin and latex can be

added to enhance the adherence of other important chemicals such as boric acid to

the main material, in this case Coconut fiber. Also, it will help the product be

compact and not loose.

 41

7. Other materials, which resemble the properties of coconut fiber can be used as the

main component for the cellulose insulation.

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