i BIOMASS BRIQUETTES MADE OF DRIED LEAVES (MANGO, GMELINA, AND CORN) AS CHARCOAL ALTERNATIVES A Research Paper Presented to the Faculty of Senior High School Department University of Cebu – Banilad Cebu City, Philippines In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for SH-3Is and SH – Work Immersion By: YESHEN CRSYTEL CUIZON HANNAH BRIZA DEMECILLO MARIEL ANTHONETTE C. FERIL JAYMILAN R. LAURON VANZ CODDY LEGASPINA May 2023 RESEARCH ABSTRACT BIOMASS BRIQUETTES MADE OF DRIED LEAVES (MANGO, GMELINA, AND CORN) AS CHARCOAL ALTERNATIVES YESHEN CRYSTEL CUIZON HANNAH BRIZA DEMECILLO MARIEL ANTHONETTE C. FERIL JAYMILAN R. LAURON VANZ CODDY LEGASPINA (Researchers) University of Cebu – Banilad Campus ENG. GEORGINA FE ORTEGA Adviser, University of Cebu Keywords: Biomass briquettes, Mango dried leaves, Gmelina dried leaves, Corn dried leaves, Charcoal alternative Charcoal is a staple to many households mainly used for heating or cooking. The use of wood charcoal as well as fossil fuels, emits harmful greenhouse gases that causes global conflict. This quantitative experimental research explores the potentials of Mango tree (Mangifera indica) dried leaves, Gmelina tree (Gmelina arborea) dried leaves and Corn (Zea mays) dried leaves as charcoal alternative in terms of ignition time, burning rate and water boiling time. It also compares the performance and sustainability of commercialized charcoal. The results opened possibilities of making charcoal alternatives using dried leaves. Given the stated conclusion, the researchers determined a significant difference Gmelina dried leaves Concentration A and the other mixtures conducted Therefore, this study concludes that the main variables: Mango tree (Mangifera indica) dried leaves, Gmelina tree (Gmelina arborea) dried leaves and Corn (Zea mays) dried leaves and the constant sub-variable: Cornstarch slurry, can be used as an alternative charcoal. Department Program Research Started Research Completed : Senior High School : Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics : August 2022 : May 2023 UNIVERSITY OF CEBU PROGRAM RESEARCH OFFICE APPROVAL SHEET IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT of the requirements for SH-3I and SH OJT/STEM, this research paper entitled BIOMASS BRIQUETTES MADE OF DRIED LEAVES (MANGO, GMELINA, AND CORN) AS CHARCOAL ALTERNATIVES submitted by Yeshen Crysel Cuizon, Hannah Briza Demecillo, Mariel Antonette C. Feril, Jaymilan R. Lauron, Vanz Coddy Legaspina has been duly examined, accepted and approved for ORAL DEFENSE EXAMINATION. ENG. GEORGINA FE ORTEGA Adviser ACCEPTED AS OJT/STEM Partial Fulfilment of the requirements for the SH-3I and RICHARD D. ARDEÑIO, LPT, MST(c) MALEEN GRAFILO-ORDIZ, LPT, MAT Program Research Coordinator Principal, Senior High School Department APPROVED by the tribunal at the ORAL DEFENSE EXAMINATION with the grade of _____________. JUNREL A. CAPUNO, M.Ed. Chairman RICHARD D. ARDEÑIO, LPT, MST(c) Member MALEEN GRAFILO-ORDIZ, LPT, MAT Member ANNAFER VISMANOS-MENDOZA, LPT Statistician Date of Oral Defense: 11 MAY 2023 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT The researchers would like to express their sincere gratitude and appreciation to the following individuals who have contributed significantly to the success of their research project: To our adviser, Ms. Georgina Fe Ortega, for her guidance and expertise throughout the process. You are a great resource, and we are thankful for your patience in answering our questions offering great advice. To the panelists, Mr. Junrel A. Capuno, Ms. Maleen Ordiz, Mr. Richard Ardenio, who were truly helpful, provided insights into how we could improve our work. We really appreciate all your contributions. To the statistician, Ms. Annafer Vismanos-Mendoza for her expert analysis of our data which considerably improved the validity of our findings. To our families and friends, for their unending support, understanding and sacrifices, which provided us a constant source of encouragement. Finally, we would want to give praise and appreciation for giving us the knowledge, courage, comfort, and strength we needed to get us through this research adventure. DEDICATION We would like to dedicate this research paper to the following individuals: To our darling families and friends, who have been our constant source of inspiration and support; To our committed advisors and mentors, whose guidance and patience have been invaluable in shaping our research and nurturing our academic growth; And most importantly, to our mighty God, who has been our guiding light in every step of this research. TABLE OF CONTENTS PRELIMINARIES PAGE Title Page ........................................................................... Research Abstract .............................................................. Approval Sheet .................................................................. Acknowledgement ............................................................. Dedication ……………………………………………… List of Tables...................................................................... List of Graphs…………………………………………… List of Figures.................................................................... i ii iii iv v ix xi xiii CHAPTER1 1 THE PROBLEM AND ITS SCOPE Introduction ………………………………………..… Rationale…............................................... 1 Conceptual Framework of the Study........ 4 Related Literature .................................... 6 Related Studies ........................................ 9 The Problem ................................................................. Statement of the Problem ........................ 12 Statement of the Null Hypotheses …....... 13 Significance of the Study......................... 15 Scope and Delimitations of the Study............ 16 Research Methodology ............................................................... 18 Research Design ........................................... 18 Research Locale ........................................... 18 Research Materials an Equipment................. 21 Research Procedure ...................................... 25 Statistical Treatments .................................... 28 Definition of Terms ..................................................................... 2 29 PRESENTATION, ANALYSES AND INTERPRETATION OF DATA Difference between I. aquatica and T. catappa in Papermaking in terms of Certain Variables ……………… 59 Difference between I. aquatica and T. catappa Infused with CaCO3 in terms of Certain Variables ……………... 67 Difference between I. aquatica and T. catappa with the Addition of Sodium Hypochlorite (NaClO) in terms of Certain Variables …………… 74 Difference between the Three Kinds of I. aquatica Papers Made (pure; pure with CaCO3; pure with NaClO) in terms of Certain Variables …………………….. 81 Difference between the three kinds of T. catappa papers made (pure; pure with CaCO3; pure with NaClO) in terms of Certain Variables …………………….. 3 88 SUMMARY, FINDINGS, CONCLUSIONS, AND RECOMMENDATIONS Summary.......................................................... 96 Findings............................................................ 98 Conclusions...................................................... 100 Recommendations............................................ 103 REFERENCES............................................................................. 105 APPENDIX………………………………………………..……. 114 A Summary of Raw Data …………………........ 114 B Documentation ……...………………............. 116 C Grammarly Results …………………………. 115 CURRICULUM VITAE............................................................... 118 CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION THE PROBLEM AND ITS SCOPE Rationale of the Study Charcoal has been used for a variety of things over the years, including art and medicine, but its usage as a household fuel has by far been its most significant use. It is one of the most popular domestic fuels throughout the world. Even with the major advancements in cooking technology, charcoal is still widely used as a fuel for cooking and heating by people in their respective households. Worldwide, around 2.4 billion people still cook using solid fuels such as charcoal and kerosene in open fires and inefficient stoves (World Health Organization, 2022). Most of these people are poor and live in low- and middle-income countries. A developing country like the Philippines, is no exception to that. In the Philippines, nearly 30% of households use charcoal for cooking applications, especially in rural areas (Belino et al., 2015). As much as it is convenient, too much usage of charcoal as a cooking fuel negatively affects the environment in various possible ways. An alternative to address this problem, biomass briquettes, is explored in recent studies. Briquetting is a way to make use of biomass residues that would otherwise go to waste, and replace the use of wood and charcoal (often produced unsustainably) as well as fossil fuels, thus cutting greenhouse gas emissions (Bhavya et al., 2015). The country of Ethiopia, one of the largest producers of charcoal in Africa where its urban consumers burn over 3 million tons annually, is one of those who have witnessed the negative effects of charcoal utilization in households on the environment. In a study conducted in Mecha District, Ethiopia, it is found that households consumed 164,648.2 tons of charcoal in total between 2014 and 2018. Accordingly, the total greenhouse gas emissions attributable to the production and consumption of charcoal over this time period total to an alarming 266,244 tons of CO2e, with an average annual emission rate of 53,248 tons of CO2e (Tassie et al., 2021). Its neighboring African country in the south, Rwanda, utilized biomass briquettes for sustainability and achieved positive results for the environment. The Rwandan jail system and educational institutions are supplied with briquettes by Coopérative pour la Conservation et l’ Environment, also known as COOCEN. The COOCEN's briquetting project is fundamentally preventing the burning down of 1,800 tons of firewood or the chopping down of at least 9,000 trees annually. In effect, this is anticipated to reduce about 297 tons of carbon dioxide emissions per year (Adambradford., 2012). In the Philippines, charcoal is also popularly used as a domestic fuel. In a report by Bensel and Remegio (2022), it is estimated that Filipino households’ charcoal usage was between 1.2 metric tons annually, equivalent to a massive 7.2 million tons of wood, making this process harmful for the environment. In this regard, a study conducted in Iloilo City, Philippines, have explored the use of biomass briquettes as a fuel alternative. Results showed that biomass briquettes are not just positive for the environment, but are also efficient and low-cost (Kraft & Romallosa, 2017). Most of these studies utilize a mix of organic materials, including rice husk, bagasse, ground nut shells, municipal solid wastes, and agricultural wastes. However, there is a lack of research focusing on biomass briquettes with dried leaves only as a main ingredient, specifically in the chosen setting of the study, Banilad, Cebu City. Dried leaves are considered products of abscission – a natural process in which plants shed undesirable organs in order to minimize transpiration load and guarantee new tissues have enough water and nutrients to survive. This study will aim to examine the feasibility of dried leaves as a main ingredient in making biomass briquettes as an alternative for charcoal. Specifically, off the plants: Mango tree (Mangifera indica), Gmelina tree (Gmelina arborea) and Corn (Zea mays). With the prevalence of charcoal or solid fuel around the world, the researchers will aim to search for a better and sustainable source of fuel. Through the results of this research, the researchers will also aim to spread the process of briquetting in households, reducing the negative impacts of charcoal production to the environment. \ Conceptual Framework Biomass Evaluation of composite briquettes from dry leaves in energy applications for agrarian communities in India (Kumar et al., 2022) Dried leaves are considered among vegetation that undergoes the natural process of abscission (Patharkar & Walker, 2018; Agust et al., 2012). Mango tree (Mangifera indica) Leaves Gmelina tree (Gmelina arborea) Leaves Briquetting grass and tree leaf biomass for sustainable production of future fuels (Khorasgani N. et al., 2020) Corn (Zea mays) Leaves Briquetting Drying Grinding Mixing Pressing Dried leaves to cornstarch slurry ratio: 90% Mango/Gmelina/Corn/Assorted dried leaves :10% Cornstarch Slurry 75% Mango/Gmelina/Corn dried/Assorted leaves :25 Cornstarch Slurry 40% Mango/Gmelina/Corn dried leaves/Assorted: 60% Cornstarch Slurry Burning Rate Ignition Time Data Analysis Conclusion Recommendation Thermal Fuel Efficiency Figure 1. Schematic Diagram of the Conceptual Framework of the Study Figure 1 above shows that the study is anchored with the following literatures and studies: Dried leaves are considered among vegetation that undergoes the natural process of abscission (Patharkar & Walker, 2018; Agust et al., 2012); Evaluation of composite briquettes from dry leaves in energy applications for agrarian communities in India (Kumar et al., 2022); and, Briquetting grass and tree leaf biomass for sustainable production of future fuels (Khorasgani N. et al., 2020). This study will primarily test the feasibility of dried leaves as a main ingredient in making biomass briquettes as an alternative for charcoal. Specifically, off the plants: Mango tree (Mangifera indica), Gmelina tree (Gmelina arborea) and Corn (Zea mays). These will undergo the process of briquetting step by step – drying, grinding, mixing, and pressing. Cornstarch slurry will be used as a binder in making the briquettes. Following the experiment, the researchers will gather the required data and analyze them using various standardized statistical tools. Next, the researchers will formulate a conclusion out of the data analysis, and then propose recommendations for future studies. Related Literature This section will present existing literatures that will support and further the study. The following literatures are organized in accordance to its relevance to the study. Charcoal is a black porous solid made up of carbon and any remaining ash. Charcoal production is done through a method called pyrolysis of biomass. Pyrolysis is described as the irreversible chemical process caused by heating biomass in an oxygenfree environment. This process of burning wood goes through a series of transformations that often result in a black carbonaceous solid called charcoal as well as a mix of gases and vapors. The emissions of most concern are carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), sulfur oxides (SOx), and nitrogen oxides (NOx), all which are harmful to both humans and the environment in large scales (Alkan et al., 2019). Worldwide, around 2.4 billion people still cook using solid fuels such as charcoal and kerosene in open fires and inefficient stoves (World Health Organization, 2022). This amount of people will need a large production of charcoal, thus adding to the negative impacts of using coal to our environment. An alternative to address this problem, biomass briquettes, is explored in recent studies and is supported in existing literatures. Biomass briquettes are biofuel substitute to coal and charcoal. They are created by compressing biomass wastes into a solid piece that can be used as firewood or as charcoal. In other words, this product is made purely from green waste and organic materials, making it a renewable and environmental-friendly fuel source (Ramsay, 2021). These currently serve as alternative to firewood, wood, pellets and charcoal in developing countries in Africa, Asia and South America. The concept behind briquetting is to take materials that would otherwise be wasted because of their lack of density and compress them into a solid fuel that can be burned like wood or charcoal. Briquettes may contain a mix of organic materials, including rice husk, bagasse, ground nut shells, municipal solid wastes, and agricultural wastes. While previous studies on biomass briquetting have been undertaken, they have focused primarily on making briquettes which are composed of any material as long as it is a biomass. The exploration of using solely one material as a main ingredient, particularly dried leaves, have been lacking, and are yet to be explored. The research study, then, intends to fill in this gap. Focusing on making an alternative for charcoal, the study attempts to make biomass briquettes with dried leaves as a main ingredient. Dried leaves are considered among vegetation that undergoes the natural process of abscission. It is a process in which plants shed undesirable organs in order to minimize transpiration load and guarantee new tissues have enough water and nutrients to survive (Partharkar Walker, 2018; August et al., 2012). Moreover, dried leaves are highly combustible and are renewable, making it a potential ingredient in making biomass briquettes. In this regard, the present study explores the feasibility of dried leaves as an ingredient in making biomass briquettes, specifically off the plants; Mango Tree (Mangifera indica), Gmelina Tree (Gmelina arborea) and Corn (Zea mays). Mango tree leaves (Mangifera indica), is one of the most-grown fruits in the Philippines. According to the Department of Agriculture (DOA), the Philippines ranked tenth (10th ) in mango production around the world, and Central Visayas as third (3rd ) in mango production in the Philippines. Mango tree undergoes a regular abscission that happens many times a year to sustain its health and growth (Shah et al., 2010). Thus, dried mango leaves (DML) are natural agricultural waste and a renewable source that can be utilized as biomass briquette fuels. Also common to the Philippines, Gmelina trees (Gmelina Arborea), is a fastgrowing plant. Due to its excellent medicinal and wood properties, is emerging as an important plantation species (Pathala et al., 2015). However, it is a harsh, quickly spreading, and invasive tree species that can outcompete many native trees for space and sunlight. Its spread can be controlled and the distribution of nutrients to nearby plants can be improved by using the leaves of these trees to make biomass briquettes. On the other hand, Corn, one of the most important staple crops in the Philippines, raking second to rice in the utilization of agricultural resources, has a record production volume of over eight million metric tons in 2021 (Statistica, 2022). According to Ngubane and Oyekola (2022), corn residue such as corn stover briquettes can be able to sustain energy for its increasing demand. stalks and leaves, however, are one of its agricultural waste that has no commercial value. This makes corn leaves a potential ingredient in making biomass briquettes. The dried leaves of these three aforementioned plants will be utilized in the study to make biomass briquettes. Moreover, to test the feasibility of the briquettes made of dried leaves from these plants, this study will also maneuver with commercial charcoal fuel. Related Studies This section will present existing studies that will support and further the study. The following studies are organized in accordance to its relevance to the study. In the Upper West Region of Ghana, a study was conducted to explore the commercial charcoal production and sustainable development of the community. The researchers found that in the villages that produce charcoal, roughly 24,000 trees with an average size of between 10 and 44 centimeters in diameter at breast height and 15-20 meters high were processed into charcoal (Agyeman et al., 2012). If the degradation of the vegetation is not stopped, many people's sources of income in the three research districts are at risk. This shows how the production of charcoal negatively affects both the industry and the environment. In the Philippines, the same thing is observed in existing studies. A survey by the National Statistics office was conducted to determine the certain percentage of charcoal users in terms of house energy consumption. Results showed that in 1989, 1995, and 2004, there were an average of 32.1%, 38.5%, and 34.2% charcoal users, respectively. In another report by Bensel and Remegio (2022), it is estimated that home charcoal usage was between 1.2 million and 2 million metric tons annually, with 1.2 million metric tons being the best estimate. In metric tons, this is the same as 7.2 million tons of wood. This merely demonstrates that despite the technological advancements like electrical stoves, LPG, and kerosene, the Filipinos continue to use charcoal. The demand for charcoal continues to increase. Therefore, if charcoal production is not under control, it poses a major threat to both human life and the environment. The environment needs to be seriously protected in light of this situation. To address this problem, an alternative – biomass briquettes – will be explored in this study. Innovations in biomass briquetting have been developed through time. Additionally, this study will work towards the same objective of reducing the negative impacts of charcoal on society and the environment. A study conducted in Nigeria, explored the production and characterization of briquette charcoal by carbonization of agro-waste. In this study, four briquette grades were created, and their physical and combustive characteristics were determined. Results showed that converting used maize cobs into briquette charcoal is an efficient way to manage these solid wastes (Zubairu, 2014). Additionally, carbonized briquetting has the potential to provide jobs for the throngs of unemployed youth in northern Nigeria due to the amount of locally accessible naturally occurring binder materials and waste agricultural biomass supplies. Another study, conducted in Iloilo City, Philippines, investigated the recycling potentials of using biomass wastes generated from municipal waste streams by turning them into premium and high-quality briquettes. Results showed that using biomass wastes is economically advantageous. Additionally, the standard for wood pellets and briquetted biofuels, DIN 51731, was examined, and it was found that parameters including bulk density, heating value, and moisture content of the briquettes fulfilled the standards. These aforementioned studies show how utilizing wastes in making biomass briquettes display positive effects for both the environment and the livelihood of its people. As a result, the researcher intends to explore the feasibility of biomass briquettes made of dried leaves as charcoal alternative. This was further investigated by Kumar (2021) in the study "Evaluation of composite briquettes from dry leaves in energy applications for agrarian communities in India". This study evaluated briquettes made from dried leaves after 7 days and discovered promising findings. The use of dry leaves for briquette production has been proven effective in terms of heating value and durability performance. The study shows how to limit the waste of dried leaves, which could be used to make biomass fuel. In this regard, a study by Khorasgani (2019) evaluated the mechanical and thermal characteristics of briquettes produced from grass and tree leaves. Results indicated that both grass and tree leaves provided excellent mechanical and thermal properties, which can be used in a number of different industrial applications. The presented studies show the potential of utilizing dried leaves waste in making biomass briquettes fuel. Similarly, the present study aims to explore the feasibility of biomass briquettes made of dried leaves – Mango tree (Mangifera indica), Gmelina tree (Gmelina arborea) and Corn (Zea mays) – in an attempt to propose a domestic fuel alternative to charcoal. THE PROBLEM Statement of the Problem This research study aims to explore the feasibility of dried leaves as a main ingredient in making biomass briquettes for fuels alternatives, in which it will be compared and contrasted with commercial charcoal at Banilad, Cebu City, Cebu, Philippines during the Academic Year 2022-2023. The results of the study will be the basis for recommendations. Moreover, the researchers aim to answer the following question: 1. Is there a significant difference on the proposed biomass briquette made of Mango tree (Mangifera indica) dried leaves in terms of ignition time, burning rate, and water boiling time using the following concentrations: a. 60 g Mango tree dried leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Slurry; b. 70 g Mango tree dried leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Slurry; and c. 80 g Mango tree dried leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Slurry. 2. Is there a significant difference on the proposed biomass briquette made of Gmelina tree (Gmelina arborea) dried leaves in terms of ignition time, burning rate, and water boiling time using the following concentrations: a. 60 g Gmelina tree dried leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Slurry; b. 70 g Gmelina tree dried leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Slurry; and c. 80 g Gmelina tree dried leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Slurry. 3. Is there a significant difference on the proposed biomass briquette made of Corn (Zea mays) dried leaves in terms of ignition time, burning rate, and water boiling time using the following concentrations: a. 60 g Corn dried leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Slurry; b. 70 g Corn dried leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Slurry; and c. 80 g Corn dried leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Slurry. 4. Is there a significance difference between the proposed biomass briquette and wood charcoal counterpart in terms of: 4.1 Ignition time 4.2 Burning rate 4.3 Water boiling time Statement of the Null Hypothesis H01. There is no significant difference on the proposed biomass briquette made of Mango tree (Mangifera indica) dried leaves in terms of ignition time, burning rate, and water boiling time using the following concentrations: a. 60 g Mango tree dried leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Slurry; b. 70 g Mango tree dried leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Slurry; and c. 80 g Mango tree dried leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Slurry. H02. There is no significant difference on the proposed biomass briquette made of Gmelina tree (Gmelina arborea) dried leaves in terms of ignition time, burning rate, and water boiling time using the following concentrations: a. 60 g Gmelina dried leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Slurry; b. 70 g Gmelina dried leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Slurry; and c. 80 g Gmelina dried leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Slurry. H03. There is no significant difference on the proposed biomass briquette made of Corn (Zea mays) dried leaves in terms of ignition time, burning rate, and water boiling time using the following concentrations: a. 60 g Corn dried leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Slurry; b. 70 g Corn dried leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Slurry; and c. 80 g Corn dried leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Slurry. H04. There is no significant difference between the proposed biomass briquette and wood charcoal counterpart in terms of: 4.1 Ignition time 4.2 Burning rate 4.3 Water boiling time Significance of the Study This section presents how the study initiated by the researchers carries off benefits to the following: Consumers, would be given an efficient and a low-cost renewable solid fuel source to be used for domestic purposes; Industry, would benefit from the wider range of biomass briquettes available for sale, as well as the ability to substitute wood with a faster renewable resource. These new choices will lead to lower energy costs for industry, which can then be passed on to consumers through lower prices. Environment, would be in less harm due to its low greenhouse gas emission. This study will lead to the development of a new generation of briquettes that are environmentally friendly and have no adverse effects on humans, animals and the ecosystem. Future Researchers. would be able to use the findings of this study as a reference material and guide; Scope and Delimitations of the Study This research study focuses on examining the feasibility of dried leaves as a main ingredient in making biomass briquettes. The study will be specifically utilizing dried leaves only from these plants that are accessible to the setting of the study, Banilad, Cebu City: Mango tree (Mangifera indica), Gmelina tree (Gmelina arborea) and Corn (Zea mays). The study will focus on how the use of dried leaves as a raw ingredient will affect the efficiency of biomass briquettes, moreover, compare the proposed alternative to its market-produced counterpart. The following materials and ingredients, which are typically used to make briquettes, will not be used by the researchers: cement and kaolin as a binding agent; wood charcoal and mineral carbon as a heat fuel; sodium nitrate and waxes for burning speed; calcium carbonate and limestone to give the briquettes' ashes a white color; sodium borate for press release; cement and clay as filler. Moreover, the researchers will purely utilize Mango, Gmelina, and Corn dried leaves as the biomass with cornstarch as the binder for the briquettes. The briquettes will mainly be subjected to these three tests: Ignition time, Burning rate, and Thermal Fuel Efficiency (TFE). In these three tests, a bunsen burner will be utilized. Chemical nitrates like sodium nitrate are mostly used as accelerants in the briquetting process. There may also be other chemicals like ammonium and potassium nitrate. The aforementioned chemicals are costly and harmful at the same time. Due to the fact that the researchers are students themselves, they will not be using these substances in this regard. In addition, due to the expensive cost of a briquette press machine, the researchers will instead use a compound lever press to create the briquettes. A compound lever press is a compression tool made of wood. It has a compression range of 300 mm to 190 mm and can produce square or traditional round briquettes with or without holes at a rate of 12 units every 10 minutes from biomass fines. As this type of press is quite large and heavy, the research will utilize two people to operate it efficiently. Nevertheless, these limitations will not hinder the researchers in pursuing the objective of this study, which is to create biomass briquettes made of dried leaves as charcoal alternatives. Moreover, these limitations will instead underscore the economic advantage of making biomass briquettes out of dried leaves, in which a costly procedure is not necessary to create a charcoal alternative. Hence, the present study will promote an environmental-friendly process of biomass briquetting that is feasible and affordable to consumers. Further experimentations and observations of the variables in this study will be conducted at the Physics Laboratory at the University of Cebu- Banilad Campus (Senior High Schosol Building) only. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY Research Design The research design is a strategy for using empirical data to answer a research question (Bhandari, 2022). Subsequently, it is the blueprint for data collection, measurement, and analysis in the research problem. In this study, the researchers utilized a quantitative approach to deal with measuring and analyzing statistical data to explore the feasibility of the biomass briquettes made of dried leaves from mango tree (Mangifera indica), gmelina tree (Gmelina arborea) and corn (Zea mays). This study used an experimental design. Moreover, the experimental approach is appropriate for the study as it deals with the independent and dependent variables. The independent variables are the mango tree dried leaves (Mangifera indica), gmelina tree dried leaves (Gmelina arborea) and corn dried leaves (Zea mays). The dependent variable would be the results of tests subjected to the biomass briquettes made of the aforementioned plants. The researchers aim to examine and explain the applicability of the chosen variables. Research Locale Research locale is a term that refers to the geographic area in which a study is conducted. It helps researchers understand how different locations affect the outcome of their studies and how to best communicate results. Research locale also includes why the researchers chose this location. The research study was conducted in the laboratory of the University of Cebu Banilad Campus Senior High School Department at Gov. M. Cuenco Ave, Cebu City, 6000 Cebu City. The also selected the University of Cebu's Banilad Campus laboratory since it has all the necessary equipment for conducting the experiment including the following tests: ignition time, burning rate, TFE (Thermal Fuel Efficiency) Location Map Figure 1: Laboratory of University of Cebu – Banilad SHS Building Coordinate of University of Cebu – Banilad ________________________________________________________________________ Location: Gov. M. Cuenco Ave, Cebu City, 6000 Cebu City Latitude: 10.3417 Longitude: 123.9118 Research Subject In this experimental research, variables that are present include dependent, independent, and extraneous factors. The items that are put under experimental conditions are known as experimental units in a study. Humans are referred to as subjects if they are used as experimental units. The experimental manipulation of the dependent variables is carried out by the independent variables. This experimental research uses dried leaves from mango tree (Mangifera indica), gmelina tree (Gmelina arborea) and corn (Zea mays) as the focus subject of the study. The researchers use the subjects to develop biomass briquettes for charcoal alternatives. These three aforementioned plants are common vegetations found throughout Philippines and are considered as biowaste that can be utilized as a potential ingredient in making biomass briquettes. Furthermore, the researchers use cornstarch slurry to help bind the biomass briquettes. The researchers used mango tree (Mangifera indica), gmelina tree (Gmelina arborea) and corn (Zea mays) leaves, for it is an organic and renewable source that goes the natural process of abscission that helps the process of briquetting by drawing out moisture out from the leaves. Thus, it can be utilized as an efficient biofuel alternative for consumers. Moreover, the researchers observed the significance of difference in concentrations between dried leaves and cornstarch slurry. The researchers use the subjects to develop biomass briquettes for charcoal alternative. These three aforementioned plants are common vegetations found throughout Philippines and are considered as biowaste that can be utilized as a potential ingredient in making biomass briquettes. Furthermore, the researchers use cornstarch slurry to help bind the biomass briquettes. The researchers used mango tree (Mangifera indica), gmelina tree (Gmelina arborea) and corn (Zea mays) leaves, for it is an organic and renewable source that goes the natural process of abscission that helps the process of briquetting by drawing out moisture out from the leaves. Thus, it can be utilized as an efficient biofuel alternative for consumers. Moreover, the researchers observed the significance of difference in concentrations between dried leaves and cornstarch slurry. Research Materials and Equipment Quantity Materials 1 kg Mango dried leaves (Mangifera indica) Image Description and Usage is the fallen foliage of a mango tree is used as a main ingredient in making the biomass briquettes 1 kg Gmelina dried leaves (Gmelina arborea) is the fallen foliage of a gmelina tree is used as a main ingredient in making the biomass briquettes 1 kg Corn dried leaves (Zea mays) is one of the agro-wastes of corn is used as a main ingredient in making the biomass briquettes 180 g Cornstarch is a white, tasteless, odorless powder is used as a component in making a binder for the briquette 720 ml Water is an inorganic, transparent, tasteless, odorless, and nearly colorless is used as a component in making a binder for the briquette 1 Lever press is a wooden device is used for pressing briquettes made of dried leaves 1 Lighter is a portable device which creates a controlled flame 1 Blender an electrical kitchen appliance is used for grinding and mixing the briquette solution 1 Charcoal Chamber a metal cylinder with a grate inside to allow for airflow, the briquettes are inserted inside Cooking oil a plant or animal liquid fat used in frying, baking, and other types of cooking is one of the component used as a fire starter 3 Plastic pails is a round, open container with a handle used as a container for the fallen leaves 3 Container is an object that can be used to hold or transport something is used to hold the briquette solution before transfer 1 Mass balance is used to measure the mass of solids, liquids, and other samples 2 Spoon an utensil primarily used for eating, serving, and cooking constituents 1 Timer is a specialized type of clock used for measuring specific time intervals. Tissue a soft, thin, pliable, and absorbent paper made from wood or recycled paper is one of the component used as a fire starter 1 Tongs is a tool used for tools to hold or grip items Research Procedure This study aims to test the feasibility of biomass briquettes made of dried leaves – mango tree (Mangifera indica), gmelina tree (Gmelina arborea) and corn (Zea mays) – in an attempt to propose a domestic fuel alternative to charcoal. The procedures of this study are arranged thematically in parts, under the following headings: Collection of Dried Leaves The researchers collected 3 kilograms of fallen leaves from the residential area of one of the researchers. Specifically, these fallen leaves are off the following plants: Mango tree (Mangifera indica), Gmelina tree (Gmelina arborea) and Corn (Zea mays). The collected leaves will be stored in covered plastic pails in a well-ventilated room. Preparation of Different Concentrations The researchers will use cornstarch slurry as a binder for the briquette. Cornstarch slurry was made by mixing 50 grams of cornstarch and 100 grams of water then stirred until the solution is even all through. It will then be added to the following concentrations: 60 grams dried leaves, 70 grams dried leaves, and 80 grams dried leaves. The researchers will place the dried leaves and cornstarch slurry mixture in three containers (one for each kind of leaf). For the Mango tree (Mangifera indica) briquette solution, the dried leaves and cornstarch slurry concentration will be as follows: 60 Mango tree dried leaves, 150 grams Cornstarch Slurry; 70 Mango tree dried leaves, 150 grams Cornstarch slurry; and 80 grams Mango tree dried leaves, 150 grams Cornstarch slurry. For the Gmelina tree (Gmelina arborea) briquette solution, the dried leaves and cornstarch slurry concentration will be as follows: 60 Gmelina tree dried leaves, 150 grams Cornstarch Slurry; 70 Gmelina tree dried leaves, 150 grams Cornstarch slurry; and 80 grams Gmelina tree dried leaves, 150 grams Cornstarch slurry. For the Corn (Zea mays) briquette solution, the dried leaves and cornstarch slurry concentration will be as follows: 60 Corn tree dried leaves, 150 grams Cornstarch Slurry; 70 Corn tree dried leaves, 150 grams Cornstarch slurry; and 80 grams Corn tree dried leaves, 150 grams Cornstarch slurry. Briquette Pressing Each briquette solution will be transferred by the researchers to a mold of 4 cm in height and 3 cm in width. A manual wooden briquette machine will be utilized in briquette pressing. The design of which will be patterned from Biomass Briquette Lever Press by Commando (2018). The briquettes produced will be then air dried for 48 hours. Application of the Briquettes To test the feasibility of the briquette, it will be used to boil water. Moreover, the briquette will be specifically subjected to these three tests: ignition time, burning rate, and water boiling time. Ignition Time Test Each briquette will be ignited by placing a fire starter on a platform 4 cm directly beneath it. The researchers will use a 22 inches of tissue roll soaked in 10 ml of oil to ensure a consistent fire in igniting the briquettes. Caution was taken to avoid flame spread in the transverse directions. The burner was turned on until the briquette was fully ignited and in its steady state burn phase. The time it takes for the briquette to ignite will be recorded. Burning Rate Test The insulator, Bunsen burner, tripod stand, and wire gauze will be arranged on the balance - the researchers will record its weight. The briquettes will be placed inside the charcoal chimney and the fire starter will be ignited until the briquettes are completely burnt and constant weight is obtained. The weight loss at specific time will be computed from the expression: 𝑏𝑢𝑟𝑛𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑟𝑎𝑡𝑒 = 𝑖𝑛𝑖𝑡𝑖𝑎𝑙 𝑤𝑒𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑏𝑢𝑟𝑛𝑡 𝑏𝑟𝑖𝑞𝑢𝑒𝑡𝑡𝑒 𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑡𝑖𝑚𝑒 𝑡𝑎𝑘𝑒𝑛 Water Boiling Time Upon reaching the ignition burn of the briquette, a tin of 500 ml water is placed above the ignited briquettes. The initial temperature of the water is then recorded every 3 minutes. The time it takes for the water boil will be recorded. Statistical Treatment The data obtained by the researchers from the experiment were analyzed by applying the statistical treatment ANOVA: Single Factor. Compute first the mean value of each data per setup 1. For problems 1, 2, and 3, the researchers utilized t-test for two independent samples. where: x̄1 = Observed Mean of 1st Sample x̄2 = Observed Mean of 2nd Sample s1 = Standard Deviation of 1st Sample s2 = Standard Deviation of 2nd Sample n1 = Size of 1st Sample n2 = Size of 2nd Sample 2. For problem 4, the researchers employed ANOVA. To find the degrees of freedom: 𝑑𝑓𝑏 = 𝑘 − 1, 𝑑𝑓𝑤 = 𝑁 − 𝑘, 𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑒: 𝑑𝑓𝑏 = 𝑑𝑒𝑔𝑟𝑒𝑒 𝑜𝑓 𝑓𝑟𝑒𝑒𝑑𝑜𝑚 𝑏𝑒𝑡𝑤𝑒𝑒𝑛, 𝑑𝑓𝑤 = 𝑑𝑒𝑔𝑟𝑒𝑒 𝑜𝑓 𝑓𝑟𝑒𝑒𝑑𝑜𝑚 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ𝑖𝑛. Definition of Terms This section operationally defines the terms that are used in the study. Biomass. Organic materials or waste from dried leaves which are utilized to become a fuel, a renewable and sustainable source of energy used to create electricity or other forms of power. Briquettes. Are compressed blocks composed of leaves as biomass material used for fuel and kindling to start a fire. Charcoal. Black porous solid made up of carbon and any remaining ash which will serve as basis for comparison with biomass briquettes. Dried Leaves. Brown waste from mango tree (Mangifera indica), gmelina tree (Gmelina arborea) and corn (Zea mays) that are rich in organic matter, predominantly carbon based, and highly combustible. Lever Press. A compression tool used in briquetting. Renewable Energy. Energy from natural processes that are continuously replaced. This includes sunlight, geothermal heat, wind, tides, water, and various forms of biomass. CHAPTER 2 PRESENTATION, ANALYSES, AND INTERPRETATION OF DATA In alignment with the experimentation conducted by the researchers, hereof presented, analyzed and interpreted, is the data gathered through statistical treatment of the collected raw data in correspondence to the problems that the researchers established in the study. Difference between varying concentrations of Mango (Mangifera indica), Gmelina (Gmelina arborea) and Corn (Zea Mays) Dried Leaves Briquettes in terms of its variables The graphs and tables shown below, presented the efficacy of biomass briquettes made with Mango, Gmelina and Corn dried leaves with the following concentration: concentration (a) 60 grams of (Mango/Gmelina/Corn) dried leaves¸150 ml cornstarch slurry; concentration (b) 70 grams of (Mango/Gmelina/Corn) dried leaves¸150 ml cornstarch slurry; and concentration (c) 80 grams of (Mango/Gmelina/Corn) dried leaves, 150 ml cornstarch in terms of ignition time, burning rate, and water boiling time. Graph 1. Difference between the different concentrations of Mango (Mangifera indica) Dried Leaves Briquettes in terms of Ignition Time Graph 1 presented the following results: (1) concentration A containing 60 grams of Mango dried leaves and 150 ml cornstarch slurry had the shortest ignition time with an average of 230.67 seconds; (2) concentration B containing 70 grams of Mango dried leaves and 150 ml cornstarch slurry had an average ignition time of 251 seconds and; (3) concentration C containing 80 grams of Mango dried leaves and 150 ml cornstarch slurry had the longest ignition time with an average of 286.33 seconds. The data showed that the higher the ignition time, the slower it was for the briquettes to ignite and enter a steady state burn phase. 350 286.33 300 Ignition Time (seconds) 250 251 230.67 200 150 100 50 0 60 grams Mango Dried Leaves, 70 grams Mango Dried Leaves, 80 grams Mango Dried Leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Slurry 150 ml Cornstarch Slurry 150 ml Cornstarch Slurry Concentrations Trial 1 Trial 2 Trial 3 Average Table 1. Difference between the concentrations of Mango (Mangifera indica) Dried Leaves Briquettes in terms of Ignition Time Table 1 tabulated the difference in the ignition time between the different concentrations of briquettes made from Mango (Mangifera indica) in a statistical method. Specifics Mean SD 60 grams Mango Dried Leaves, 150 ml cornstarch slurry 230.67 6.11 70 grams Mango Dried Leaves, 150 ml cornstarch slurry 251 2.65 80 grams Mango Dried Leaves, 150 ml cornstarch slurry 286.33 13.20 N 3 Table 2. Variance Analysis between different concentrations of Mango (Mangifera indica) Dried Leaves Briquettes in terms of Ignition Time Table 2 displayed the Variance Analysis between the different concentrations of Mango (Mangifera indica) Dried Leaves Briquettes in terms of Ignition Time. Source of Variation Degrees of freedom Sum of Squares Mean Squares Between Groups 2 4760.67 2380.33 Within Groups 6 437.33 Computed F P-value 32.66 0.0006 72.89 s=significant at α=0.05 One-Way ANOVA was used by the researchers to compare the significant difference between the ignition time of the biomass briquettes with different concentrations. Table 2 confirmed that the ignition time of each concentration of the alternative charcoal displayed a significant gap, [F (2,6) = 32.66], p-value = 0.0006 is lesser than α=0.05. In implication, each concentration showed varying ignition time, with Concentration A which prevailed among the three concentrations. To validate this analysis, a study by Barre & Ycaza (2018), which is a study that focuses on using carbonized Mango dried leaves as the main ingredient in making briquettes. Results showed that the kindling point or the ignition time of the biomass briquette is around 64.54-68.26 seconds. The aforementioned study only uses a mixture of carbonized mango dried leaves and starch as binder, just like the present study did. The only difference is that the present study did not include carbonization of dried leaves, as it is harmful to the environment. However, the ignition time that the mango briquettes displayed did not stray too far away from the results the present study had gathered. Therefore, this study supports the result since there is a significant difference between the concentrations of Mango (Mangifera indica) dried leaves briquettes in terms of ignition time. Graph 2. Difference between the different concentrations of Gmelina (Gmelina arborea) Dried Leaves Briquettes in terms of Ignition Time Graph 2 has presented the following results: (1) concentration A containing 60 grams of Gmelina dried leaves and 150 ml cornstarch slurry had the longest ignition time with an average of 189.67 seconds; (2) concentration B containing 70 grams of Gmelina dried leaves and 150 ml cornstarch slurry had an average ignition time of 233 seconds and; (3) concentration C containing 80 grams of Gmelina dried leaves and 150 ml cornstarch slurry had the shortest ignition time with an average of 272.67 seconds. The data showed that the higher the ignition time, the slower it was for the briquettes to ignite and enter a steady state burn phase. 300 272.67 233 Ignition Time (Seconds) 250 189.67 200 150 100 50 0 60 grams Gmelina Dried Leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Slurry 70 grams Gmelina Dried Leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Slurry 80 grams Gmelina Dried Leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Slurry Concentrations Trial 1 Trial 2 Trial 3 Average Table 3. Difference between the concentrations of Gmelina (Gmelina arborea) Dried Leaves Briquettes in terms of Ignition Time Table 3 tabulated the difference in the ignition time between the different concentrations of briquettes made from Gmelina (Gmelina Arborea) in a statistical method. Specifics Mean SD 60 grams Gmelina Dried Leaves, 150 ml cornstarch solution 189.67 8.62 70 grams Gmelina Dried Leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Solution 232.67 10.02 80 grams Gmelina Dried Leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Solution 272.67 8.33 N 3 Table 4. Variance Analysis between the different concentrations of Gmelina (Gmelina arborea) Dried Leaves Briquettes in terms of Ignition Time Table 4 displayed the Variance Analysis between the different concentrations of Gmelina (Gmelina Arborea) Dried Leaves Briquettes in terms of Ignition Time. Source of Variation degrees of freedom Sum of Squares Mean Squares Between Groups 2 10338 5169 Within Groups 6 488 Computed F P-value 63.55 9.1592E-05 81.33 s=significant at α=0.05 One-Way ANOVA was used by the researchers to compare the significant difference between the ignition time of the biomass briquettes with different concentrations. Table 4 confirmed that the ignition time of each concentration of the Gmelina Briquettes displayed a significant gap, [F (2,6) = 63.55], p-value = 0.00009 is lesser than α=0.05. In implication, each concentration showed varying ignition time, with Concentration A which prevailed among the three concentrations Graph 3. Difference between the different concentrations of Corn (Zea mays) Dried Leaves Briquettes in terms of Ignition Time Graph 3 has presented the following results: (1) concentration A containing 60 grams of Corn dried leaves and 150 ml cornstarch slurry had the shortest ignition time with an average of 169.33 seconds; (2) concentration B containing 70 grams of Corn dried leaves and 150 ml cornstarch slurry had an average ignition time of 189 seconds and; (3) concentration C containing 80 grams of Corn dried leaves and 150 ml cornstarch slurry had the longest ignition time with an average of 204.33 seconds. The data showed that the higher the ignition time, the slower it is for the briquettes to ignite and enter a steady state burn phase. Ignition Time (Seconds) 250 189 200 204.33 169.33 150 100 50 0 60 grams Corn Dried Leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Slurry 70 grams Corn Dried Leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Slurry Concentrations Trial 1 Trial 2 Trial 3 Average 80 grams Corn Dried Leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Slurry Table 5. Difference between the concentrations of Corn (Zea mays) Dried Leaves Briquettes in terms of Ignition Time Table 5 tabulates the difference in the ignition time between the different concentrations of briquettes made from Corn (Zea mays) in a statistical method. Specifics Mean SD 60 grams Corn Dried Leaves, 150 ml cornstarch solution 169.33 11.15 70 grams Corn Dried Leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Solution 189.00 11.36 80 grams Corn Dried Leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Solution 204.33 10.07 N 3 Table 6. Variance Analysis between different concentrations of Gmelina (Gmelina arborea) Dried Leaves Briquettes in terms of Ignition Time Table 6 displayed the Variance Analysis between the different concentrations of Corn (Zea mays) Dried Leaves Briquettes in terms of Ignition Time. Source of Variation degrees of freedom Sum of Squares Mean Squares Between Groups 2 1846.89 923.44 Within Groups 6 709.33 Computed F P-value 7.81 0.0214 118.22 s=significant at α=0.05 One-Way ANOVA was used by the researchers to compare the significant difference between the ignition time of the biomass briquettes with different concentrations. Table 4 confirmed that the ignition time of each concentration of the Gmelina Briquettes displayed a significant gap, [F (2,6) = 7.81], p-value = 0.0214 is lesser than α=0.05. In implication, each concentration showed varying ignition time, with Concentration A which prevailed among the three concentrations. Graph 4. Difference between the different concentrations of Mango (Mangifera indica) Dried Leaves Briquettes in terms of Burning Rate Graph 4 has presented the following results: (1) concentration A containing 60 grams of Mango dried leaves and 150 ml cornstarch slurry had the highest burning rate with an average of 2.63 g/min; (2) concentration B containing 70 grams of Mango dried leaves and 150 ml cornstarch slurry had an average burning rate of 2 g/min and; (3) concentration C containing 80 grams of Mango dried leaves ad 150 ml cornstarch slurry had the lowest burning rate with an average of 1.74 g/min. The data showed that the higher the burning rate, the faster it was for the briquettes to be consumed by the fire. 3 2.63 Burning Rate (g/min) 2.5 2 2 1.74 1.5 1 0.5 0 60 grams Mango Dried Leaves, 70 grams Mango Dried Leaves, 80 grams Mango Dried Leaves, 150 ml cornstarch solution 150 ml Cornstarch Solution 150 ml Cornstarch Solution Concentrations Trial 1 Trial 2 Trial 3 Average Table 7. Difference between the concentrations of Mango (Mangifera indica) Dried Leaves Briquettes in terms of Burning Rate Table 7 tabulates the difference in the burning rate between the different concentrations of briquettes made from Mango (Mangifera indica) in a statistical method. Specifics Mean SD 60 grams Mango Dried Leaves, 150 ml cornstarch solution 2.63 0.10 70 grams Mango Dried Leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Solution 1.86 0.07 80 grams Mango Dried Leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Solution 1.74 0.07 N 3 Table 8. Variance Analysis between different concentrations of Mango (Mangifera indica) Dried Leaves Briquettes in terms of Burning Rate Table 8 displayed the Variance Analysis between the different concentrations of Mango (Mangifera indica) Dried Leaves Briquettes in terms of Burning Rate. Source of Variation Between Groups Within Groups degrees of freedom Sum of Squares Mean Squares 2 1.40 0.70 6 0.04 0.01 Computed F P-value 103.76 2.21912E05 s=significant at α=0.05 One-Way ANOVA was used by the researchers to compare the significant difference between the burning rate of the biomass briquettes with different concentrations. Table 2 confirmed that the burning rate of each concentration of the alternative charcoal displayed a significant gap, [F (2,6) =103.76], p-value = 0.00002 is lesser than α=0.05. In implication, each concentration showed varying burning rate, with Concentration C which prevailed among the three concentrations. Graph 5. Graph of the Difference between different concentrations of Gmelina (Gmelina Arborea) Dried Leaves Briquettes in terms of Burning Rate Graph 5 has presented the following results: (1) concentration A containing 60 grams of Gmelina dried leaves, 150 ml cornstarch slurry had the highest burning rate with an average of 2.42 g/min; (2) concentration B containing 70 grams of Gmelina dried leaves, 150 ml cornstarch slurry had an average burning rate of 1.84 g/min and; (3) concentration C containing 80 grams of Gmelina dried leaves, 150 ml cornstarch slurry had the lowest burning rate with an average of 1.78 g/min. The data shows that the higher the burning rate, the faster it is for the briquettes to be consumed by the fire. 3 Burning Rate (g/min) 2.5 2.42 1.84 2 1.78 1.5 1 0.5 0 60 grams Gmelina Dried Leaves, 150 ml cornstarch solution 70 grams Gmelina Dried Leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Solution Concentrations Trial 1 Trial 2 Trial 3 Average 80 grams Gmelina Dried Leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Solution Table 9. Difference between the concentrations of Gmelina (Gmelina Arborea) Dried Leaves Briquettes in terms of Burning Rate Table 9 tabulates the difference in the burning rate between the different concentrations of briquettes made from Gmelina (Gmelina Arborea) in a statistical method. Specifics Mean SD 60 grams Gmelina Dried Leaves, 150 ml cornstarch solution 2.42 0.11 60 grams Gmelina Dried Leaves, 150 ml cornstarch solution 1.84 0.09 60 grams Gmelina Dried Leaves, 150 ml cornstarch solution 1.78 0.09 N 3 Table 10. Variance Analysis between different concentrations of Mango (Mangifera indica) Dried Leaves Briquettes in terms of Burning Rate Table 10 displayed the Variance Analysis between the different concentrations of Gmelina (Gmelina Arborea) Dried Leaves Briquettes in terms of Burning Rate. Source of Variation degrees of freedom Sum of Square Mean Squares Between Groups 2 0.76 0.38 Within Groups 6 0.06 Computed F P-value 40.60 0.0003 0.01 s=significant at α=0.05 One-Way ANOVA was used by the researchers to compare the significant difference between the burning rate of the biomass briquettes with different concentrations. Table 2 confirmed that the ignition burning rate of each concentration of the alternative charcoal displayed a significant gap, [F (2,6) =40.60], p-value = 0.0003 is lesser than α=0.05. In implication, each concentration showed varying burning rate, with Concentration C which prevailed among the three concentrations. Graph 6. Graph of the Difference between different concentrations of Corn (Zea mays) Dried Leaves Briquettes in terms of Burning Rate Graph 1 has presented the following results: (1) concentration A containing 60 grams of Corn dried leaves and 150 ml cornstarch slurry had the highest burning rate with an average of 3.30 g/min; (2) concentration B containing 70 grams of Corn dried leaves and 150 ml cornstarch slurry had an average burning rate of 3.10 g/min and; (3) concentration C containing 80 grams of Corn dried leaves and 150 ml cornstarch slurry had the lowest burning rate with an average of 3.05 g/min. The data showed that the higher the burning rate, the faster it was for the briquettes to be consumed by the fire. 3.4 Burning Rate (g/min) 3.3 3.30 3.2 3.10 3.1 3.05 3 2.9 2.8 2.7 60 grams Mango Dried Leaves, 70 grams Corn Dried Leaves, 150 ml cornstarch solution 150 ml Cornstarch Solution Concentrations Trial 1 Trial 2 Trial 3 Average 80 grams Corn Dried Leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Solution Table 11. Difference between the concentrations of Corn (Zea mays) Dried Leaves Briquettes in terms of Burning Rate Table 11 tabulates the difference in the burning rate between the different concentrations of briquettes made from Corn in a statistical method. Specifics Mean SD 60 grams Corn Dried Leaves, 150 ml cornstarch solution 3.30 0.06 70 grams Corn Dried Leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Solution 3.10 0.04 80 grams Corn Dried Leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Solution 3.05 0.08 N 3 Table 12. Variance Analysis between different concentrations of of Corn (Zea mays) Dried Leaves Briquettes in terms of Burning Rate Table 12 displayed the Variance Analysis between the different concentrations of Corn (Zea Mays) Dried Leaves Briquettes in terms of Burning Rate. Source of Variation Between Groups degrees of freedom Sum of Squares Mean Squares 2 0.10 0.05 6 0.02 Computed F P-value 13.50 0.006007 0.004 Within Groups s=significant at α=0.05 One-Way ANOVA was used by the researchers to compare the significant difference between the burning rate of the biomass briquettes with different concentrations. Table 2 confirmed that the ignition burning rate of each concentration of the alternative charcoal displayed a significant gap, [F (2,6) =13.50], p-value = 0.0060 is lesser than α=0.05. In implication, each concentration showed varying burning rate, with Concentration C which prevailed among the three concentrations. Graph 7. Graph of the difference between the different concentrations of Mango (Mangifera indica) Dried Leaves Briquettes in terms of Boiling Water Time Graph 1 has presented the following results: (1) concentration A containing 60 grams of Mango dried leaves and 150 ml cornstarch slurry had the shortest water boiling time with an average of 1006 s; (2) concentration B containing 70 grams of Mango dried leaves and 150 ml cornstarch slurry had an average water boiling time of 1105.33 s and; (3) concentration C containing 80 grams of Mango dried leaves and 150 ml cornstarch slurry had the highest water boiling time with an average of 1303.67. The data showed that the shorter the water boiling time, the faster it was for the briquettes to boil the water. 1400 1303.67 Water Boiling Time (seconds) 1200 1105.33 1006 1000 800 600 400 200 0 60 grams Mango Dried Leaves, 70 grams Mango Dried Leaves, 80 grams Mango Dried Leaves, 150 ml cornstarch solution 150 ml Cornstarch Solution 150 ml Cornstarch Solution Concentrations Trial 1 Trial 2 Trial 3 Average Table 13. Difference between the concentrations of Mango (Mangifera indica) Dried Leaves Briquettes in terms of Water Boiling Time Table 13 tabulates the difference in the water boiling time between the different concentrations of briquettes made from Mango (Mangifera indica) in a statistical method. Specifics Mean SD 60 grams Mango Dried Leaves, 150 ml cornstarch solution 1006.00 9.54 70 grams Mango Dried Leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Solution 1105.33 8.50 80 grams Mango Dried Leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Solution 1303.67 6.03 N 3 Table 14. Variance Analysis between different concentrations of Mango (Mangifera indica) Dried Leaves Briquettes in terms of Water Boiling Time Table 14 displayed the Variance Analysis between the different concentrations of Mango (Mangifera indica) Dried Leaves Briquettes in terms of water boiling time. Source of Variation degrees of freedom Sum of Squares Mean Squares Between Groups 2 137808.67 68904.33 Within Groups 6 399.33 Computed F P-value 1035.29 2.41217E08 66.56 s=significant at α=0.05 One-Way ANOVA was used by the researchers to compare the significant difference between the water boiling time of the biomass briquettes with different concentrations. Table 2 confirmed that the water boiling time of each concentration of the alternative charcoal displayed a significant gap, [F (2,6) =[103.29], p-value = 0.00000002 is lesser than α=0.05. In implication, each concentration showed varying water boiling time, with Concentration A which prevailed among the three concentrations. Graph 8. Graph of the Difference between different concentrations of Gmelina (Gmelina Arborea) Dried Leaves Briquettes in terms of Water Boiling Time Graph 8 has presented the following results: (1) concentration A containing 60 grams of Gmelina dried leaves and 150 ml cornstarch slurry had the shortest water boiling time with an average of 822.33 seconds; (2) concentration B containing 70 grams of Gmelina dried leaves and 150 ml cornstarch slurry had an average water boiling time of 1044 seconds and; (3) concentration C containing 80 grams of Gmelina dried leaves and 150 ml cornstarch slurry had the longest water boiling time with an average of 1174.33 seconds. The data showed that the higher the burning rate, the faster it was for the briquettes to be consumed by the fire. Water Boiling Time (seconds) 1400 1174.33 1200 1000 1044 822.33 800 600 400 200 0 60 grams Gmelina Dried Leaves, 150 ml cornstarch solution 70 grams Gmelina Dried Leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Solution Concentrations Trial 1 Trial 2 Trial 3 Average 80 grams Gmelina Dried Leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Solution Table 15. Difference between the concentrations of Gmelina (Gmelina Arborea) Dried Leaves Briquettes in terms of Water Boiling Time Table 15 tabulates the difference in the water boiling time between the different concentrations of briquettes made from Gmelina (Gmelina Arborea) in a statistical method. Specifics Mean SD 60 grams Gmelina Dried Leaves, 150 ml cornstarch solution 822.33 11.06 60 grams Gmelina Dried Leaves, 150 ml cornstarch solution 1043.67 0.09 60 grams Gmelina Dried Leaves, 150 ml cornstarch solution 1174.33 0.09 N 3 Table 16. Variance Analysis between different concentrations of Gmelina (Gmelina Arborea)) Dried Leaves Briquettes in terms of Burning Rate Table 16 displayed the Variance Analysis between the different concentrations of Gmelina (Gmelina Arborea) Dried Leaves Briquettes in terms of Water Boiling Time. Source of Variation degrees of freedom Sum of Squares Mean Squares Computed F P-value Between Groups 2 189966.22 94983.11 442.47 3.05E-07 Within Groups 6 1288.00 214.67 s=significant at α=0.05 One-Way ANOVA was used by the researchers to compare the significant difference between the burning rate of the biomass briquettes with different concentrations. Table 2 confirmed that the ignition burning rate of each concentration of the alternative charcoal displayed a significant gap, [F (2,6) = [442.47], p-value = 0.0000003 is lesser than α=0.05. In implication, each concentration showed varying burning rate, with Concentration A which prevailed among the three concentrationss Graph 9. Graph of the Difference between different concentrations of Corn (Zea mays) Dried Leaves Briquettes in terms of Water Boiling Time Graph 1 has presented the following results: (1) concentration A containing 60 grams of Corn dried leaves and 150 ml cornstarch slurry had the shortest water boiling time with an average of 749.33 seconds; (2) concentration B containing 70 grams of Corn dried leaves and 150 ml cornstarch slurry had an average burning rate of 832 seconds and; (3) concentration C containing 80 grams of Corn dried leaves and 150 ml cornstarch slurry had the lowest burning rate with an average of 943.67 seconds. The data showed that the higher the burning rate, the faster it was for the briquettes to be consumed by the fire. 1200 943.67 Water Boiling Time (seconds) 1000 832 749.33 800 600 400 200 0 60 grams Corn Dried Leaves, 150 ml cornstarch solution 70 grams Corn Dried Leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Solution 80 grams Corn Dried Leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Solution Concentrations Trial 1 Trial 2 Trial 3 Average Table 17. Difference between the concentrations of Corn (Zea mays) Dried Leaves Briquettes in terms of Water Boiling Time Table 17 tabulates the difference in the burning rate between the different concentrations of briquettes made from Corn in a statistical method. Specifics Mean SD 60 grams Corn Dried Leaves, 150 ml cornstarch solution 749.33 4.51 70 grams Corn Dried Leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Solution 831.67 63.00 80 grams Corn Dried Leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Solution 943.67 8.62 N 3 Table 18. Variance Analysis between different concentrations of Corn (Zea mays) Dried Leaves Briquettes in terms of Water Boiling Time Table 12 displayed the Variance Analysis between the different concentrations of Corn (Zea Mays) Dried Leaves Briquettes in terms of Water Boiling Time. Source of Variation degrees of freedom Sum of Squares Mean Squares Between Groups 2 57088.22 28544.11 Within Groups 6 8128.00 Computed F P-value 21.07 0.00194 1354.67 s=significant at α=0.05 One-Way ANOVA was used by the researchers to compare the significant difference between the burning rate of the biomass briquettes with different concentrations. Table 2 confirmed that the ignition burning rate of each concentration of the alternative charcoal displayed a significant gap, [F (2,6) =21.07], p-value = 0.00194 is lesser than α=0.05. In implication, each concentration showed varying burning rate, with Concentration C which prevailed among the three concentrations. Difference between the Proposed Alternative Charcoal and Commercialized Charcoal in terms of its variables The graphs and tables shown below, presented the most effective of the biomass briquettes made with Mango, Gmelina and Corn dried leaves as opposed to its commercial counterpart in terms of ignition time, burning rate, and water boiling time. Graph 10: Difference between the most effective concentration of Mango (Mangifera indica) Dried Leaves Briquettes and its Commercial Counterpart in terms of Ignition Time Graph 10 presented the difference between the ignition time of the most effective concentration of Mango (Mangifera indica) Alternative Charcoal which had a mean value of 230.67 and its Commercial Counterpart which had a mean value of 261. 280 270 Ignition Time (Seconds) 261.00 260 250 240 230.67 230 220 210 200 Proposed Alternative Charcoal Commercialized Charcoal Charcoal Trial 1 Trial 2 Trial 3 Average Table 19: Difference between the most effective concentration of Mango (Mangifera Indica) Dried Leaves Briquettes and its Commercial Counterpart in terms of Ignition Time Table 19 displayed the variance analysis between the ignition time of the most effective concentration of Mango (Mangifera indica) Alternative Charcoal and its Commercial Counterpart. The table showcased that there is a significant difference among the treatments. Specifics Proposed Alternative Charcoal Commercialized Charcoal Mean SD 169.33 11.15 311.33 N Mean Difference Computed t p-value 3 -142.00 -20.10 0.0001 5.03 s=significant at α=0.05 The researchers applied a t-test of two independent samples to compare the significant ignition time of the most effective concentration of Mango (Mangifera indica) Alternative Charcoal and its Commercial Counterpart which showed that the Commercial has a higher mean value; therefore, the ignition time of the Commercial Counterpart is longer compared to the Concentration A of Mango Briquettes. Table 19 shows that there was a significant difference between the most effective concentration of Mango Briquettes (M = 169.33, SD = 11.15) and the commercialized counterpart (M = 311.33, SD = 5.03), t (3) = -142, with the p – value = 0.0001 which is less than the alpha value = 0.05. Therefore, the Alternative Charcoal prevailed in comparison to its commercial counterpart. Graph 11: Difference between the most effective concentration of Gmelina (Gmelina arborea) Dried Leaves Briquettes and its Commercial Counterpart in terms of Ignition Time Graph 11 presented the difference between the ignition time of the most effective concentration of Gmelina (Gmelina arborea) Alternative Charcoal which had a mean value of 189.67 and its Commercial Counterpart which had a mean value of 346.33. 450 400 346.33 Ignition Time (Seconds) 350 300 250 189.67 200 150 100 50 0 Proposed Alternative Charcoal (Gmelina Dried Leaves Briquettes) Commercialized Charcoal Charcoal Trial 1 Trial 2 Trial 3 Average Table 20: Difference between the most effective concentration of Gmelina (Gmelina arborea)Dried Leaves Briquettes and its Commercial Counterpart in terms of Ignition Time Table 20 displayed the variance analysis between the ignition time of the most effective concentration of Gmelina (Gmelina arborea) Alternative Charcoal and its Commercial Counterpart. The table showcased that there is a significant difference among the treatments. Specifics Proposed Alternative Charcoal Commercialized Charcoal Mean SD 189.67 8.62 261.00 N Mean Difference Computed t p-value 3 -71.33 -5.86 0.0349 75.26 s=significant at α=0.05 The researchers applied a t-test of two independent samples to compare the significant ignition time of the most effective concentration of Gmelina (Gmelina arborea) Alternative Charcoal and its Commercial Counterpart which showed that the Commercial has a higher mean value; therefore, the ignition time of the Commercial Counterpart is longer compared to the Concentration A of Gmelina Briquettes. Table 20 shows that there was a significant difference between the most effective concentration of Gmelina Briquettes (M =198.67, SD =8.62) and the commercialized counterpart (M =261.00, SD =75.26), t (3) = -5.86, with the p – value = 0.0349 which is less than the alpha value = 0.05. Therefore, the Alternative Charcoal prevailed in comparison to its commercial counterpart. Graph 12: Difference between the most effective concentration of Corn (Zea mays) Dried Leaves Briquettes and its Commercial Counterpart in terms of Ignition Time Graph 12 presented the difference between the ignition time of the most effective concentration of Corn (Zea mays) Alternative Charcoal which had a mean value of 169.33 and its Commercial Counterpart which had a mean value of 311.33 350 311.33 Ignition Time (Seconds) 300 250 200 169.33 150 100 50 0 Proposed Alternative Charcoal Commercialized Charcoal Charcoal Trial 1 Trial 2 Trial 3 Average Table 21: Difference between the most effective concentration of Corn (Zea mays) Dried Leaves Briquettes and its Commercial Counterpart in terms of Ignition Time Table 21 displayed the variance analysis between the ignition time of the most effective concentration of Corn (Zea mays) Alternative Charcoal and its Commercial Counterpart. The table showcased that there is a significant difference among the treatments. Specifics Proposed Alternative Charcoal Commercialized Charcoal Mean SD 169.33 11.15 311.33 N Mean Difference Computed t p-value 3 -142.00 -20.10 0.0001 5.03 s=significant at α=0.05 The researchers applied a t-test of two independent samples to compare the significant ignition time of the most effective concentration of Corn (Zea mays) Alternative Charcoal and its Commercial Counterpart which showed that the Commercial has a higher mean value; therefore, the ignition time of the Commercial Counterpart is longer compared to the Concentration A of Corn Briquettes. Table 21 shows that there was a significant difference between the most effective concentration of Corn Briquettes (M =169.33, SD =11.15) and the commercialized counterpart (M =311.33, SD =5.03), t (3) = -20.10, with the p – value = 0.0001 which is less than the alpha value = 0.05. Therefore, the Alternative Charcoal prevailed in comparison to its commercial counterpart. Graph 13: Difference between the most effective concentration of Mango (Mangifera indica) Dried Leaves Briquettes and its Commercial Counterpart in terms of Burning rate Graph 13 presented the difference between the burning rate of the most effective concentration of Mango (Mangifera indica) Alternative Charcoal which had a mean value of 230.67 and its Commercial Counterpart which had a mean value of 261. 3 2.63 Burning Rate (g/min) 2.5 1.92 2 1.5 1 0.5 0 Proposed Alternative Charcoal Commercialized Charcoal Charcoal Trial 1 Trial 2 Trial 3 Average Table 22: Difference between the most effective concentration of Mango (Mangifera indica) and its Commercial Counterpart in terms of Burning Rate Table 22 displayed the variance analysis between the burning rate of the most effective concentration of Mango (Mangifera indica) Alternative Charcoal and its Commercial Counterpart. The table showcased that there is a significant difference among the treatments. Specifics Proposed Alternative Charcoal Commercialized Charcoal Mean SD 2.63 0.10 1.92 N Mean Difference Computed t p-value 3 0.71 11.32 0.0039 0.03 s=significant at α=0.05 The researchers applied a t-test of two independent samples to compare the significant burning rate of the most effective concentration of Mango (Mangifera indica) Alternative Charcoal and its Commercial Counterpart which showed that the Commercial has a higher mean value; therefore, the burning rate of the Commercial Counterpart is longer compared to the Concentration A of Mango Briquettes. Table 22 shows that there was a significant difference between the most effective concentration of Mango Briquettes (M =2.63, SD =0.10) and the commercialized counterpart (M =1.92, SD =0.03), t (3) = 11.32, with the p – value = 0.0039 which is less than the alpha value = 0.05. Therefore, the Alternative Charcoal prevailed in comparison to its commercial counterpart. Graph 14: Difference between the most effective concentration of Gmelina (Gmelina arborea) Dried Leaves Briquettes and its Commercial Counterpart in terms of Burning Rate Graph 14 presented the difference between the burning rate of the most effective concentration of Gmelina (Gmelina arborea) Alternative Charcoal which had a mean value of 2.42 and its Commercial Counterpart which had a mean value of 1.95. 3 2.42 Burning rate (g/min) 2.5 1.95 2 1.5 1 0.5 0 Proposed Alternative Charcoal (gmelina Dried Leaves Briquettes) Commercialized Charcoal Charcoal Trial 1 Trial 2 Trial 3 Average Table 23: Difference between the most effective concentration of Gmelina (Gmelina arborea) Dried Leaves Briquettes and its Commercial Counterpart in terms of Burning rate Table 23 displayed the variance analysis between the burning rate of the most effective concentration of Gmelina (Gmelina arborea) Alternative Charcoal and its Commercial Counterpart. The table showcased that there is a significant difference among the treatments. Specifics Proposed Alternative Charcoal Commercialized Charcoal Mean SD 2.42 0.11 1.95 N Mean Difference Computed t 3 0.48 4.51 p-value 0.0053 2.47 s=significant at α=0.05 The researchers applied a t-test of two independent samples to compare the significant burning rate of the most effective concentration of Gmelina (Gmelina arborea) Alternative Charcoal and its Commercial Counterpart which showed that the Commercial has a higher mean value; therefore, the burning rate of the Commercial Counterpart is longer compared to the Concentration A of Gmelina Briquettes. Table 23 shows that there was a significant difference between the most effective concentration of Gmelina Briquettes (M =2.42, SD =0.11) and the commercialized counterpart (M =1.95, SD =2.47), t (3) = 4.51, with the p – value = 0.0053 which is less than the alpha value = 0.05. Therefore, the Alternative Charcoal prevailed in comparison to its commercial counterpart. Graph 15: Difference between the most effective concentration of Corn (Zea mays) Dried Leaves Briquettes and its Commercial Counterpart in terms of Burning Rate Graph 15 presented the difference between the Burning rate of the most effective concentration of Corn (Zea mays) Alternative Charcoal which had a mean value of 3.30 and its Commercial Counterpart which had a mean value of 1.69 4 3.30 Burning Rate (g/min) 3.5 3 2.5 2 1.69 1.5 1 0.5 0 Proposed Alternative Charcoal Commercialized Charcoal Charcoal Trial 1 Trial 2 Trial 3 Average Table 24: Difference between the most effective concentration of Corn (Zea mays) Dried Leaves Briquettes and its Commercial Counterpart in terms of Burning Rate Table 24 displayed the variance analysis between the burning rate of the most effective concentration of Corn Alternative Charcoal and its Commercial Counterpart. The table showcased that there is a significant difference among the treatments. Specifics Proposed Alternative Charcoal Commercialized Charcoal Mean SD 3.30 0.06 1.69 N Mean Difference Computed t p-value 3 1.60 24.67 0.00007 0.10 s=significant at α=0.05 The researchers applied a t-test of two independent samples to compare the significant burning rate of the most effective concentration of Corn (Zea mays) Alternative Charcoal and its Commercial Counterpart which showed that the Commercial has a higher mean value; therefore, the burning rate of the Commercial Counterpart is longer compared to the Concentration A of Corn Briquettes. Table 24 shows that there was a significant difference between the most effective concentration of Corn Briquettes (M =3.30, SD =0.06) and the commercialized counterpart (M =1.69, SD =0.10), t (3) = 24.67, with the p – value = 0.00007 which is less than the alpha value = 0.05. Therefore, the Alternative Charcoal prevailed in comparison to its commercial counterpart. Graph 16: Difference between the most effective concentration of Mango (Mangifera indica) Dried Leaves Briquettes and its Commercial Counterpart in terms water boiling time Graph 16 presented the difference between the water boiling time of the most effective concentration of Mango (Mangifera indica) Alternative Charcoal which had a mean value of 1006 and its Commercial Counterpart which had a mean value of 740. 1200 1006 Water Boiling Time (seconds) 1000 740 800 600 400 200 0 Proposed Alternative Charcoal Commercialized Charcoal Charcoal Trial 1 Trial 2 Trial 3 Average Table 25: Difference between the most effective concentration of Mango (Mangifera indica) Dried Leaves Briquettes and its Commercial Counterpart in terms of Water Boiling Time Table 25 displayed the variance analysis between the water boiling time of the most effective concentration of Mango (Mangifera indica) Alternative Charcoal and its Commercial Counterpart. The table showcased that there is a significant difference among the treatments. Specifics Proposed Alternative Charcoal Commercialized Charcoal Mean SD 2.63 0.09 1.92 N Mean Difference Computed t p-value 3 0.71 16.01 0.0002 0.02 s=significant at α=0.05 The researchers applied a t-test of two independent samples to compare the significant water boiling time of the most effective concentration of Mango (Mangifera indica) Alternative Charcoal and its Commercial Counterpart which showed that the Commercial has a higher mean value; therefore, the water boiling time of the Commercial Counterpart is shorter compared to the Concentration A of Corn Briquettes. Table 25 shows that there was a significant difference between the most effective concentration of Mango Briquettes (M =2.63, SD =0.09) and the commercialized counterpart (M =1.92, SD =0.02), t (3) = 24.67, with the p – value = 0.00007 which is less than the alpha value = 0.05. Therefore, the Commercial Charcoal prevailed in comparison to its commercial counterpart. Graph 17: Difference between the most effective concentration of Gmelina (Gmelina arborea) Dried Leaves Briquettes and its Commercial Counterpart in terms of Water Boiling Time Graph 17 presented the difference between the water boiling time of the most effective concentration of Gmelina (Gmelina arborea) Alternative Charcoal which had a mean value of 189.67 and its Commercial Counterpart which had a mean value of 346.33. 1000 Water boiling time (s) 950 923.33 900 850 822.33 800 750 700 Proposed Alternative Charcoal (Mango Dried Leaves Briquettes) Commercialized Charcoal Charcoal Trial 1 Trial 2 Trial 3 Average Table 26: Difference between the most effective concentration of Gmelina (Gmelina arborea) Dried Leaves Briquettes and its Commercial Counterpart in terms of Water Boiling Time Table 26 displayed the variance analysis between the water boiling time of the most effective concentration of Gmelina (Gmelina arborea) Alternative Charcoal and its Commercial Counterpart. The table showcased that there is a significant difference among the treatments. Specifics Proposed Alternative Charcoal Commercialized Charcoal Mean SD 822.33 11.06 923.33 N Mean Difference Computed t p-value 3 -101.00 -7.23 0.0027 21.50 s=significant at α=0.05 The researchers applied a t-test of two independent samples to compare the significant water boiling time of the most effective concentration of Gmelina (Gmelina arborea) Alternative Charcoal and its Commercial Counterpart which showed that the Commercial has a higher mean value; therefore, the water boiling time of the Commercial Counterpart is longer compared to the Concentration A of Gmelina Briquettes. Table 26 shows that there was a significant difference between the most effective concentration of Gmelina Briquettes (M =822.33, SD =11.06) and the commercialized counterpart (M =923.33, SD =21.50), t (3) = -7.23, with the p – value = 0.00027 which is less than the alpha value = 0.05. Therefore, the Alternative Charcoal prevailed in comparison to its commercial counterpart. Graph 18: Difference between the most effective concentration of Corn (Zea mays) Dried Leaves Briquettes and its Commercial Counterpart in terms of Water Boiling Time Graph 18 presented the difference between the ignition time of the most effective concentration of Corn (Zea mays) Alternative Charcoal which had a mean value of 169.33 and its Commercial Counterpart which had a mean value of 311.33 800 749.33 Water Boiling Time (s) 700 629.33 600 500 400 300 200 100 0 Proposed Alternative Charcoal Commercialized Charcoal Charcoal Trial 1 Trial 2 Trial 3 Average Table 27: Difference between the most effective concentration of Corn (Zea mays) Dried Leaves Briquettes and its Commercial Counterpart in terms of Ignition Time Table 27 displayed the variance analysis between the ignition time of the most effective concentration of Corn (Zea mays) Alternative Charcoal and its Commercial Counterpart. The table showcased that there is a significant difference among the treatments. Specifics Proposed Alternative Charcoal Commercialized Charcoal Mean SD 749.33 4.51 629.33 N Mean Difference Computed t p-value 3 120 13.15 0.0029 15.41 s=significant at α=0.05 The researchers applied a t-test of two independent samples to compare the significant water boiling time of the most effective concentration of Corn (Zea mays) Alternative Charcoal and its Commercial Counterpart which showed that the Commercial has a lower mean value; therefore, the water boiling time of the Commercial Counterpart is shorter compared to the Concentration A of Gmelina Briquettes. Table 26 shows that there was a significant difference between the most effective concentration of Gmelina Briquettes (M =749.33, SD =15.41) and the commercialized counterpart (M =629.33, SD =15.41), t (3) = 13.15 with the p – value = 0.0029 which is less than the alpha value = 0.05. Therefore, the Commercial Charcoal prevailed in comparison to its alternative counterpart. CHAPTER 3 SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS, AND RECOMMENDATION This chapter confers the summary of the overall study as well as the findings that lead to the scientific and deductive formulation of the conclusion and the recommendations to be addressed from then on. Summary This study was fully realized to the feasibility of dried leaves as a main ingredient in making biomass briquettes for fuels alternatives, in which it will be compared and contrasted with commercial charcoal at Banilad, Cebu City, Cebu, Philippines during the Academic Year 2022-2023. The results of the study will be the basis for recommendations. Moreover, the researchers aim to answer the following question: 1. Is there a significant difference on the proposed biomass briquette made of Mango tree (Mangifera indica) dried leaves in terms of ignition time, burning rate, and water boiling time using the following concentrations: a. 60 g Mango tree dried leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Slurry; b. 70 g Mango tree dried leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Slurry; and c. 80 g Mango tree dried leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Slurry. 2. Is there a significant difference on the proposed biomass briquette made of Gmelina tree (Gmelina arborea) dried leaves in terms of ignition time, burning rate, and water boiling time using the following concentrations: a. 60 g Gmelina tree dried leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Slurry; b. 70 g Gmelina tree dried leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Slurry; and c. 80 g Gmelina tree dried leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Slurry. 3. Is there a significant difference on the proposed biomass briquette made of Corn (Zea mays) dried leaves in terms of ignition time, burning rate, and water boiling time using the following concentrations: a. 60 g Corn dried leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Slurry; b. 70 g Corn dried leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Slurry; and c. 80 g Corn dried leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Slurry. 4. Is there a significance difference between the proposed biomass briquette and wood charcoal counterpart in terms of: 4.1 Ignition time 4.2 Burning rate 4.3 Water boiling time Findings of the Study At the hindmost of the statistical analysis and interpretation of the garnered raw data, the following affirmations were comprehended: Difference between the concentrations of Mango (Mangifera indica), Gmelina (Gmelina Arborea) and Corn (Zea mays) Dried Leaves Briquettes in terms of Ignition Time, Burning Rate, and Water Boiling Test 1. There was a significant difference on the proposed biomass briquette made of Mango tree (Mangifera indica) dried leaves in terms of ignition time, burning rate, and water boiling time using the following concentrations: a. 60 g Mango tree dried leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Slurry; b. 70 g Mango tree dried leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Slurry; and c. 80 g Mango tree dried leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Slurry 2. There was a significant difference on the proposed biomass briquette made of Gmelina tree (Gmelina arborea) dried leaves in terms of ignition time, burning rate, and water boiling time using the following concentrations: a. 60 g Gmelina dried leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Slurry; b. 70 g Gmelina dried leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Slurry; and c. 80 g Gmelina dried leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Slurry. 3. There was a significant difference on the proposed biomass briquette made of Corn (Zea mays) dried leaves in terms of ignition time, burning rate, and water boiling time using the following concentrations: a. 60 g Corn dried leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Slurry; b. 70 g Corn dried leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Slurry; and c. 80 g Corn dried leaves, 150 ml Cornstarch Slurry CONCLUSION The researchers concluded that the variable Mango tree (Mangifera indica) dried leaves, Gmelina tree (Gmelina arborea) dried leaves, Corn (Zea mays) dried leaves and Cornstarch slurry has the potential to be an alternative for commercialized charcoal. Based on the findings of the study, Gmelina tree (Gmelina arborea) dried leaves Concentration A was the mixture that prevailed in terms of ignition time and water boiling rate. This study has tested various concentrations in terms of ignition time, burning rate, and water boiling time. This resulted in opening possibilities for making alternative charcoal using Mango tree (Mangifera indica) dried leaves, Gmelina tree (Gmelina arborea) dried leaves, Corn (Zea mays) dried leaves, and Cornstarch slurry at a place. Given the stated conclusion, the researchers determined that there is a significant difference between Gmelina tree (Gmelina arborea) dried leaves Concentration A and the other mixtures conducted. Therefore, this study concludes that the main variables: Mango tree (Mangifera indica) dried leaves, Gmelina tree (Gmelina arborea) dried leaves, Corn (Zea mays) dried leaves along with a sub-variable: Cornstarch slurry can be used as an alternative charcoal. Recommendations Based on the findings and conclusion of the study, the following recommendation are hereby offered: 1. To the future researchers who are interested in this line of study. Experiment with different ratios of various dried leaf types to see which one produces the most energy and has the best combustion capabilities to optimize the briquette composition. 2. The researchers recommend to Iimprove the briquette production process by exploring several methods for creating biomass briquettes. Look into techniques like high pressure compacting to increase the structure integrity and combustion efficiency. 3. The researchers also suggest carrying out a cost analysis in order to assess the economic potential of generating biomass briquettes on a bigger scale. Take into account elements like the price of production equipment, labor, raw material costs, and market demand. 4. It was further recommended for the future researcher to perform a thorough investigation of the briquettes' quality parameters efficiency to determine whether the biomass briquettes meet or exceed the necessary criteria. 5. The researchers strongly recommend looking into long-term sustainability by examining the availability and ability of mango, Gmelina, and corn leaves to regenerate. Analyze the effects of leaf harvesting on the ecosystem and nearby communities, and Investigate methods for sustainable sourcing CONCLUSION The researchers concluded that the variable Mango tree (Mangifera indica) dried leaves, Gmelina tree (Gmelina arborea) dried leaves, Corn (Zea mays) dried leaves and Cornstarch slurry has the potential to be an alternative for commercialized charcoal. Based on the findings of the study, Gmelina tree (Gmelina arborea) dried leaves Concentration A was the mixture that prevailed in terms of ignition time and water boiling rate. This study has tested various concentrations in terms of ignition time, burning rate, and water boiling time. This resulted in opening possibilities for making alternative charcoal using Mango tree (Mangifera indica) dried leaves, Gmelina tree (Gmelina arborea) dried leaves, Corn (Zea mays) dried leaves, and Cornstarch slurry at a place. Given the stated conclusion, the researchers determined that there is a significant difference between Gmelina tree (Gmelina arborea) dried leaves Concentration A and the other mixtures conducted. Therefore, this study concludes that the main variables: Mango tree (Mangifera indica) dried leaves, Gmelina tree (Gmelina arborea) dried leaves, Corn (Zea mays) dried leaves along with a sub-variable: Cornstarch slurry can be used as an alternative charcoal. Recommendations Based on the findings and conclusion of the study, the following recommendation are hereby offered: 1. To the future researchers who are interested in this line of study. Experiment with different ratios of various dried leaf types to see which one produces the most energy and has the best combustion capabilities to optimize the briquette composition. 2. The researchers recommend to Iimprove the briquette production process by exploring several methods for creating biomass briquettes. Look into techniques like high pressure compacting to increase the structure integrity and combustion efficiency. 3. The researchers also suggest carrying out a cost analysis in order to assess the economic potential of generating biomass briquettes on a bigger scale. Take into account elements like the price of production equipment, labor, raw material costs, and market demand. 4. It was further recommended for the future researcher to perform a thorough investigation of the briquettes' quality parameters efficiency to determine whether the biomass briquettes meet or exceed the necessary criteria. 5. . The researchers strongly recommend looking into long-term sustainability by examining the availability and ability of mango, Gmelina, and corn leaves to regenerate. Analyze the effects of leaf harvesting on the ecosystem and nearby communities, and Investigate methods for sustainable sourcing \ References Books Agyeman, K.O., Amponsah, O., Braimah, I., & Lurumuah, S. (2012). Commercial Charcoal Production and Sustainable Community Development of the Upper West Region, Ghana. Journal of Sustainable Development, 5, 149-164. https://doi.org/10.5539/jsd.v5n4p149 Belino, M., Bosshard, H. F., Chen, S., Custodio, M., Lopena, J., Meris, P. & Saccuan, E. (2015). Development of Efficient and Cleaner Charcoal Stoves for Cooking Applications in a Rural Residential Dwelling. 13th Asia Pacific Conference on the Built Environment. https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.1155797 Bensel, T.G. and Remedio, E.M. (202 2). Woodfuel Consumption and Production in the Philippines: A Desk Study. 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Five things to know about briquettes and sustainable bioenergy in Africa. CIFOR Forests News. Retrieved December 19, 2022, from https://forestsnews.cifor.org/72344/five-things-to-know-about- briquettes-and-sustainable-bioenergy-in-africa?fnl=en McCombes, S. (2022). What Is a Research Design | Types, Guide & Examples. Scribbr. https://www.scribbr.com/methodology/research-design/ Research Guides: Organizing Academic Research Papers: Purpose of Guide. (2022). https://library.sacredheart.edu/c.php?g=29803 Statistica (2022) Corn production in the Philippines 2021. Statistica. Retrieved December 19, 2022, from https://www.statista.com/statistics/751372/philippines-corn- production/ World Health Organization. (2022). Household Air Pollution. https://www.who.int/newsroom/fact-sheets/detail/household-air-pollution-and-health Appendix A Location Map Figure 2: Laboratory of University of Cebu – Banilad SHS Building Coordinate of University of Cebu – Banilad ________________________________________________________________________ Location: Gov. M. Cuenco Ave, Cebu City, 6000 Cebu City Latitude: 10.3417 Longitude: 123.9118 Yeshen Crystel Cuizon Tapuko, Pit-os, Cebu yeshencrystelc@gmail.com EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND ● Present Education: University of Cebu- Banilad Campus Senior High School STEM Student 6000, Gov. M. Cuenco Ave, Cebu City, 6000 Cebu 2022– 2023 ● Secondary Education: Pit-os National High School Baas, Pagsabungan, Mandaue City 2015 – 2019 ● Primary Education: Pulangbato Elementary School Baas, Pagsabungan, Mandaue City 2008 – 2015 PERSONAL DATA ● Age: 18 years old ● Sex: Female ● Degree: Senior High School Student ● Civil Status: Single ● Religion: Roman Catholic ● Citizenship: Filipino ● Date of Birth: November 21, 2004 ● Place of Birth: Cebu City ● Desired Job: Civil Engineer ACHIEVEMENTS AND AWARDS ● Salutatorian (Elementary) ● With Honors (Junior High) ● Sci Quiz School and District Level Champion (2019) SKILLS ● Responsible ● Innovative and Creative ● Problem Solving ● Motivation ● Openness Hannah Briza Demecillo Purok Kawayan 6, Tayud Liloan, Cebu brizademecillo@ gmail.com EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND ● Present Education: University of Cebu- Banilad Campus Senior High School STEM Student 6000, Gov. M. Cuenco Ave, Cebu City, 6000 Cebu 2022 – 2023 ● Secondary Education: Bright Minds In Action Learning Village G. Pepito St., Tayud, Liloan, Cebu 2017 – 2021 • Primary Education: Bright Minds In Action Learning Village G. Pepito St., Tayud, Liloan, Cebu 2011 – 2017 PERSONAL DATA ● Age: 18 years old ● Sex: Female ● Degree: Senior High School Student ● Civil Status: Single ● Religion: Born Again Christian ● Citizenship: Filipino ● Date of Birth: October 1, 2004 ● Place of Birth: Cebu City ● Desired Job: BS Nursing ACHIEVEMENTS AND AWARDS ● With Honors (Elementary) ● With Honors, 2017-2010 (Junior High) SKILLS ● Practical ● Punctuality Mariel Anthonette Feril P. Sanchez St., Cubacub Mandaue City, Cebu marielferel16@gmail.com EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND ● Present Education: University of Cebu- Banilad Campus Senior High School STEM Student 6000, Gov. M. Cuenco Ave, Cebu City, 6000 Cebu 2019 – 2021 ● Secondary Education: Canduman National Highschool Canduman, Mandaue City 2010 – 2011 ● Primary Education: Fervent Academy Baas, Pagsabungan, Mandaue City 2016 – 2017 PERSONAL DATA ● Age: 17 years old ● Sex: Female ● Degree: Senior High School Student ● Civil Status: Single ● Religion: Roman Catholic ● Citizenship: Filipino ● Date of Birth: May 14, 2005 ● Place of Birth: Surigao City, Surigao del Norte ● Desired Job: BS Nursing ACHIEVEMENTS AND AWARDS ● Salutatorian (Elementary) ● Valedictorian (Junior High) ● School Chess Champion (2015 – 2018) ● SSG President (2018-2019) ● Sudoku 1st runner up at University of Cebu – Banilad Campus (2020) ● Scrabble Champion in Sector 5, Pagsabungan Mandaue City (2017) SKILLS ● Responsible ● Punctuality ● Innovative and Creative ● Does well in badminton Jaymilan R. Lauron J.P. Rizal St. Basak Mandaue City, Cebu lauronjaymilan@gmail.com EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND ● Present Education: University of Cebu- Banilad Campus Senior High School STEM Student 6000, Gov. M. Cuenco Ave, Cebu City, 6000 Cebu 2022– 2023 ● Secondary Education: Mandaue City Comprehensive National High School Baas, Pagsabungan, Mandaue City 2015 – 2019 ● Primary Education: Basak Elementary School Baas, Pagsabungan, Mandaue City 2008 – 2015 PERSONAL DATA ● Age: 18 years old ● Sex: Male ● Degree: Senior High School Student ● Civil Status: Single ● Religion: Roman Catholic ● Citizenship: Filipino ● Date of Birth: February 24, 2005 ● Place of Birth: Mandaue City ● Desired Job: Medical Technologist ACHIEVEMENTS AND AWARDS ● Salutatorian (Elementary) ● With High Honors (Junior High) ● MTAP Division 3rd place (2011) ● MTAP Division 3rd place (2016) ● Science Investigatory Project 2nd place (2016) SKILLS ● Diligent ● Innovative and Creative Vanz Coddy Legaspina Lot 1115, Sitio Plaza, Apas, Cebu coddylegaspina@gmail.com EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND ● Present Education: University of Cebu- Banilad Campus Senior High School STEM Student 6000, Gov. M. Cuenco Ave, Cebu City, 6000 Cebu 2022– 2023 ● Secondary Education: Apas National High School Omega St., Apas, Cebu City 2017 – 2020 ● Primary Education: Camp Lapu Lapu Elementary School Omega St., Apas, Cebu City 2011 – 2016 PERSONAL DATA ● Age: 18 years old ● Sex: Female ● Degree: Senior High School Student ● Civil Status: Single ● Religion: Roman Catholic ● Citizenship: Filipino ● Date of Birth: April 04, 2005 ● Place of Birth: Lapu-Lapu City ● Desired Job: Licensed Architect ACHIEVEMENTS AND AWARDS ● With Honors (Elementary) ● With Honors (Junior High) ● 1st Placer - Poster Making (2016) ● 3rd Placer - Poster Making (2015) SKILLS ● Creative ● Motivation ● Artistic ● Self-discipline