The Utilization of Peanut Shells (Arachis hypogea) as

Medium for Tree-Free Recycled Paper

P
A Science Investigatory Project
a Presented to
g

e Mrs. Clarissa Mae Cortes-Gonzales

|
Lo-ok National Highschool, Lapu-Lapu City
1

In Partial Fulfillment of the

Requirements for the Course

Research 8

Presented By

Beñanosa, Norren

Brian, Dianne

Cabagnot, John Andrei

Carsido, Jeraiza

Decembrano, Christine

Mangubat, Jielyn Joy

Sosmeña, Rubie
Tangub, Christine Joy

8 Darwin

June 2023
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

P To begin, the researchers would like to express their gratitude to the All-Powerful God

a for the unchanging grace, direction, and safety that He has extended to us throughout
this research project.
g

e
In addition, the researchers would like to express their sincere gratitude to Mrs.Clarissa
|
Mae Gonzales for her unwavering support of their research, as well as for her patience,
2
drive, and vast knowledge.

Their parents, who have continuously provided them with financial support to complete
this study and for their guidance, encouragement, and inspiration throughout their lives,
deserve a very special thank you for being there for them and providing them with constant
direction.

They might likewise want to thank their kindred colleagues and companions for the
animating conversations, for the restless evenings they were cooperating for cutoff times,
and for every one of the pleasant they have had throughout the previous months.

They might likewise want to communicate their appreciation to their proposition

facilitator, Teacher Mrs. Clarissa Mae Gonzales for her trust, exhortation, support,
persistence, and direction from the very beginning to the finishing of the review.
 DEDICATION

As we look around our wonderfully diverse world, we cannot ignore the growing
P
importance of environmental sustainability. Our mission to find innovative ways of
a protecting and preserving the environment has taken on an added significance in recent

g times, and the advancements that have been made in the past decade through the hard
work of researchers, scientists, and educators have been instrumental in helping us to
e
move closer to achieving this goal.
|

3
We owe a great debt of gratitude to the researchers, scientists, and educators who
have worked tirelessly in pursuit of the revolutionary idea to create an environmentally
friendly paper from peanut shells. We have all seen the tremendous societal impacts and
positive changes that environmentally friendly paper products have had on the world, and
this notion is the latest venture to contribute significantly to building an environmentally
conscious future.

Through their diligence and passion, these individuals have made huge strides in
imagining potential uses for one of nature’s most plentiful resources. Peanut shells are
traditionally discarded as a “waste” product, yet researchers found that the shells can be
transformed into a versatile paper that provides a viable alternative to traditional paper
products. Ultimately, this endeavor is the very definition of sustainable living, as it helps
to reduce the utilization and reliance on non-renewable resources, such as trees, while still
providing people with the supplies they require.

Indeed, without the dedication and prowess of these researchers, scientists, and
educators, it simply would not have been possible to bring this innovative project to
fruition. We owe a great debt of gratitude to them and their incredible efforts, as they
 have provided us with an awe-inspiring example of how to make a positive social,
economic, and environmental impact.

P
Therefore, it is with extreme appreciation that we express our gratitude to those
a individuals who have dedicated their lives to the cause of environmentally friendly research

g and development. It is their commitment and commitment that have enabled them to
stand above and beyond in their quest to build a more sustainable world, and in doing so,
e
making a paper out of peanut shells is just one small example of their collective
|
contributions towards showing that we can indeed make a significant difference to the
4 world around us.
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Chapter I

P Introduction ................................................................................................... 1

a Statement of the Problem................................................................................ 7

g
Hypotheses .................................................................................................... 8
e
Significance of the Study ................................................................................. 9
|
Scope and Limitations ..................................................................................... 11
5
Definition of Terms ......................................................................................... 12

Chapter II

Review of Related Literature ............................................................................ 13

Chapter III

Methodology .................................................................................................. 22

Chapter IV
Presentation, Data Analysis, Interpretation ........................................................ 32

Chapter V

Generalization ................................................................................................ 35

Chapter VI

Recommendation............................................................................................ 38
 Bibliography ................................................................................................... 38

LIST OF TABLES

P Table 1: Paper out of peanut shell’s quality in terms of surface texture ................ 31

a
Table 2: Paper out of peanut shell’s strength in folding endurance ...................... 32
g

e Table 3:Paper out of peanut shell’s color .......................................................... 32

| Table 4: Paper out of peanut shell’s Writing visibility test ................................... 33

6
 ABSTRACT

P The study entitled “The Utilization of Peanut Shells (Arachis hypogea) as Medium for

a Tree-Free Recycled Paper” is focused on determining the feasibility of utilizing peanut

g shells as an alternative resource to produce tree-free recycled paper. This research aims

e to explore the potential of using peanut shells for producing paper, and to determine the

|
characteristics of such paper. The research will also consider the sustainability of utilizing
7
peanut shells for paper production.

The research will include a literature review of existing studies and research about the

utilization of peanut shells and other agricultural materials for paper production. The

research will also include an experiment on the production of paper from peanut shells to

determine the characteristics and properties of such paper. The experiment will include

the process of pulping, screening, de-inking, and drying of the peanut shells, and the

characteristics of the paper such as durability, writing visibility, and surface texture will be

measured.

The study will also analyze the sustainability of using peanut shells for paper

production, taking into consideration the environmental, economic, and social impacts of

the process. The research will analyze the potential environmental benefits of using peanut

shells for paper production, such as reducing the number of trees cut down for paper
 production, reducing waste, and conserving energy. The economic viability of using peanut

shells for paper production will also be measured in terms of cost-effectiveness and

availability of raw materials. The research will also consider the social impacts of using
P
peanut shells for paper production, such as providing an alternative livelihood for farmers
a
and creating new employment opportunities.
g

|
The findings of this research will be crucial in determining the feasibility and
8
sustainability of utilizing peanut shells for paper production. The results of this research

will be valuable in providing a better understanding of the potential of using peanut shells

as an alternative resource to produce tree-free recycled paper. This research can provide

an insight into the potential of using peanut shells for paper production and can be used

as a basis for further studies and research on this topic.

In conclusion, this study on the utilization of peanut shells (Arachis hypogea) as

medium for tree-free recycled paper is highly suitable and sustainable. Through the

analysis of the potential environmental, economic, and social impacts of utilizing peanut

shells for paper production, it can be concluded that peanut shells are a viable and

sustainable resource to produce tree-free recycled paper.

 CHAPTER l

INTRODUCTION

a Background of the Study

e
Paper is a necessity throughout all students; it is not just a tool for SATs (Standard
|
Assessment Tasks), but also a key component of learning aids in the academic world.
1
Paper is a thin sheet material that is made by mechanically or chemically processing

cellulose fibers derived from wood, rags, grasses, or other vegetable sources in water,

draining the water through fine mesh leaving the fiber evenly distributed on the surface,

followed by pressing and drying. Papers are meant to plot planes a common ground for

writing of students, teachers, artists, and even used for packaging. Paper is a generally

available stationary commodity, hence the constant exploitation of spruce, birch, and pine

trees for this purpose can have tremendous negative environmental effects.

The consumption of pulp and paper is anticipated to quadruple worldwide between

2010 and 2060. The quantity of wastepaper will remain the same. The burden on the

world's forests, which are currently under severe stress and are only growing worse, will

intensify as paper output rises. A total of 386 million hectares of forest were degraded

worldwide from 2001 to 2019. (In all forest types combined). Since 2000, the number of

trees has decreased by about 10% because of this loss.

1
 In the case of paper, it also requires tree cutting. One of the major environmental

P issues we currently have is deforestation. Papermaking uses 42% of the total wood

a harvested worldwide. Does it really make sense to destroy our life-supporting trees to

g produce this item?

|
Therefore, because of the unending issue about deforestation, the researchers
2
thought of a new way to help preserve trees while continuing the production of papers at

the same time.

The peanut (Arachis hypogea), often referred to as the groundnut, goober, Pindar, or

monkey nut in the UK, is a legume crop produced primarily for its edible seeds. In the

tropics and subtropics, it is widely grown and significant to both small and major

commercial producers. Due to its high oil content, it is categorized as both a grain legume

and an oil crop. The world produced 44 million tons of shelled peanuts annually in 2016,

with China accounting for 38% of the total. Peanut plants grow their pods underground

(geocarpy), which is unusual for legume crop plants. Carl Linnaeus, a botanist, gave

peanuts the species name hypogea, which translates to "beneath the soil," in recognition

of this feature.

2
 The production of peanuts dates to the Spanish Colonial Age in the Philippines, where

they have long been a prominent crop. One of the main field legumes cultivated by nearby

farmers is this one. According to the research of food nutritionists, peanuts are rich in
P
nutrients, offering over 30 vital nutrients and phytonutrients. Niacin, foliate, fiber, vitamin
a
E, magnesium, and phosphorus are all present in good amounts in peanuts. Moreover,
g
they naturally lack salt and trans fats and have a protein content of roughly 25%.
e

3 In the Philippines, peanuts can be grown all year long if production inputs, particularly

the need for water, are adequately accessible (PCARR, 1978). The dry season harvest

(October to early November) often produces bigger yields and higher quality beans than

the rainy season crop. This is because the crop needs more sunshine for vegetative growth

and reproductive development as the number of rainy days decreases over the season

(Opulencia, 1962; Cadelina, 1964; Lalap, 1972).

When planted in the wet season, peanuts have a propensity to become viney and

vegetative and to yield fewer pods. The pods are typically exposed to bad weather, where

they could decay and sprout in the field (Lalap, 1972). In terms of bean quantity and

quality, February is the optimum month to plant peanuts if additional irrigation is available

(Velasco et al., 1972; Cagampang and Lantican, 1975).

3
 Humans naturally assume that a peanut's shell is useless once the peanut has been

removed, but what if there is another use for peanut shells? Today, waste is dispersed

everywhere. Several disposal methods have been looked for with environmental concerns
P
in mind. The production of food and materials generates a significant amount of waste
a
during agricultural practices, but this waste or by-product can be recovered and frequently
g
upgraded to useful products (Gunjal et al., 2012). Coming up with another good idea to
e
innovate peanut shells can improve human living and the environment.
|

The key product in the creation of an alternative to conventional paper will be peanut

shells. According to scientific research, peanut shells have a variety of purposes. One of

them is the use of peanut shells as fertilizer. It can be used as fertilizer for plant growth

because it contains nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, zinc, magnesium, and other

elements. However, peanut shells decompose slowly and are difficult for plants to use

directly.

In the vast rural areas, people regard it like rubbish and discard it. Moreover, peanuts

can disintegrate for five to seven days under the influence of fungi (aspergillus fumigatus)

and produce high-quality organic fertilizer. Its efficacy is superior to fertilizer prepared

from bagasse and straw.

4
 The purpose of this investigation, according to the researchers, is to determine

whether peanut shells—which are typically discarded or unused—could be a useful

alternative for trees in the production of paper.

P

g It attempts to reduce the number of trees cut down for the manufacture of papers
e because around 60,000 trees are required to produce 15 billion sheets of paper globally

| (The Economist, 2016). Papers created from peanut shells are primarily intended to be an

5 additive in the production of paper without using any trees.

In 2016, the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) 4Statistical yearbook reported

that 27,660,802 hectares were used to produce 43,982,066 T of peanuts. With a global

production rate of 65.3%, peanuts are primarily farmed in Asia. Being one of the major

sources of industrial waste (shells), they are frequently burned, discarded, or left to

degrade. Researchers are interested in finding uses for peanut shells rather than ignoring

its potential. In countries where peanuts are produced, shells constitute a significant

industrial waste. Their use in creating paper lessens their environmental impact and acts

as a catalyst for resolving environmental issues.

Resources

https://www.theworldcounts.com/stories/paper-waste-facts

http://scinet.science.ph/union/Downloads/Anu-nut%20shell%20as%20

5
 http://crsps.net/wp-content/downloads/Peanut/Inventoried%208.8/7-1998-7-1684

https://www.peanutsusa.com/about-peanuts/the-peanut-industry3/7-peanuts-

abriefhistory.html#
P
https://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/fl-xpm-1999-08-19-9908170732story.html
a
https://pdf.usaid.gov/pdf_docs/PNAAJ079.pdf https://docslib.org/doc/11046360/peanut-
g
in-the-philippine-food-system-a-macro-study
e
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Prasad-
|
Gunjal/publication/237020345_A_cross_sectional_study_to_determine_the_profile
6
https://www.fao.org/home/en

https://www.googleadservices.com/pagead/aclk?sa=L&ai=DChcSEwjmmvm24cf9AhW62

0wCHVAVCpgYABAAGgJ0bQ&ohost=www.google.com&cid=CAESaeD2mceYvng2aaQCSd

D8LaWTK98zzgXwqY9popYQxl9OS5s7ZY7aTFgLrLvzlxZbqBCZVBrTSLGyQ4 2c2

NltMxGJpiDgyN02Cuvy1u_CYxKYnf3X21Vq_GaOxTB05N30J7CKJ96fiKKQ&sig=AOD64_19

z4eAO8QtRYSphsdjp9Wr510CNw&q&adurl&ved=2ahUKEwiesvG24cf9AhX3UPUHHTh5Al0

Q0Qx6BAgJEAE

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peanut

6
 Statement of the Problem
P

a This study aims to experiment the result in utilizing peanut shells as medium for tree free
recycled paper. Specifically, sought to the following questions:
g

e
1.What is the significance of peanut shells in recycling paper?
|

7 2.How long will it take for the paper to dry under the sunlight with peanut shells?

3.What is the result of adding peanut shells as an ingredient to the following:

3.1.Texture

3.2.Durability

3.3.Color

3.4.Scent

4.How usable is the recycled dried paper when added with peanut shells?

Tree cutting or deforestation is one of the major problems in this nation, which is the
main reason the researchers conducted this study. Moreover, to recycle paper to reduce
the amount of rubbish and garbage produced from it.

7
 Hypothesis

P Ha-

a
The Peanut Shells (Arachis hypogaea) are effective in making Tree-free recycled paper.
g
Ho-
e

| The Peanut Shells (Arachis hypogaea) are not effective in making Tree-free recycled

8 paper.

8
 Significance of the Study

P
The purpose of this study is to show that peanut shells may be used to create paper
a
rather than wood from trees. The results of the study are therefore advantageous to the
g
following.
e

| Students- Everyone uses paper and purchasing it from a store is quite expensive in

9 comparison to this experimental tree-free paper. It also improves their knowledge and

skills in terms of the importance of nature.

Community- with the help of the information inside of this study. The community would

gain knowledge about recycling paper with the help of peanut shells and be influenced to

do so. Aside from helping the environment and the community, converting peanut shells

into papers would be advantageous.

Environment- This research study will greatly benefit the environment because garbage

waste will be used as a substitute material for making paper. It will also help to reduce

flooding, tree cutting, and deforestation.

Future researchers- This research will serve as a guide for future studies that they will

conduct. It will also serve as their basis for their next investigatory project.

9
 Scope and Limitations

P The peanut shell (arachis hypogaea L.) was investigated as a free medium for tree free
a recycled paper in this study. This research assists students at Look National High School

g in purchasing low-cost paper. It will also help prevent the cutting of trees as well as floods

e and other natural disasters. This study was carried out in Lo-ok National High Schools

|
during the school year 2022-2023.
10

The purpose of this research is to investigate the feasibility of using peanut shells

(arachis hypogaea L.) as a medium for producing tree-free recycled paper. The study will

evaluate the paper's quality and compare it to traditional paper sources.

This study was conducted with the help of researchers from February 19 to June 2,

2023. The researchers are juniors from Look National High School. This study is all about

creating recycled paper from peanut shells (Arachis hypogea).

10
 Definition of Terms

Carton - a kind of container that is often made of paperboard and recycled paper is
P created by combining it with peanut shells to create recycled paper.

a
Deforestation - One of the most significant environmental issues of our day is
g deforestation. Paper production uses 42% of the world's total wood crop.

e
Food coloring – a tool added to the peanut papers to color them so that they may
|
compare peanut paper made entirely of peanuts to peanut-carton paper.
11

Fertilizer - Legumes like peanuts naturally fix nitrogen from the atmosphere into forms
that other plants can use.

Rolling Pin – a device used to crush or to pulverize peanut shells.

Mold and Deckle – a device that is employed to gather each sheet of pulp during the
making of handmade paper.

Pulp - The cellulose fibers in wood, fiber crops, scrap paper, and rags are separated
chemically or mechanically to create pulp, a lignocellulosic fibrous material.

Recycled paper - a procedure used to create new paper goods from discarded paper.

Substitute - It is possible to utilize peanut shells in place of wood pulp as a replacement.

Waste – waste generated by the thrown-away peanut shells.

11
 CHAPTER ll

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

P

g Local Literature

|
The peanut is a food that has been around for centuries and has been enjoyed by
12
many cultures. The peanut is a legume that is grown in tropical and subtropical regions

around the world. The peanut is a food that is high in protein and fat, and it is also a good

source of vitamins and minerals. The peanut is a food that can be eaten raw, roasted, or

cooked, and it can be used in a variety of recipes. The peanut is a food that is typically

eaten as a snack, but it can also be used as an ingredient in several dishes. The peanut is

a food that has several health benefits, and it is also a food that is relatively low in calories.

Guire et al. assert that the peanut shell is a food by-product that humans can eat. The

claim is based on the observation that the inner shell of peanuts contains the edible section

of the nut, while the outer shell is inedible. The study found that most of the peanut's fat

is in the cotyledon, which is the edible part of the nut. In addition, the cotyledon is shielded

by the Testa, a thin outer covering that protects the inner shell from damage. Based on

these findings, Guire et al. conclude that the peanut shell is a food by-product that can be

safely consumed by humans.

12
 There are several reasons why the peanut shell is a food by-product that can be safely

P consumed by humans. First, the inner shell of the peanut contains the edible section of

a the nut, which is where most of the peanut's fat is located. Second, the cotyledon is

g shielded by the Testa, a thin outer covering that protects the inner shell from damage.

e Third, the peanut is a food that is relatively low in calories. fourth, the peanut is a food

| that has several health benefits. fifth, the peanut is a food that can be eaten raw, roasted,

13or cooked, and it can be used in a variety of recipes.

In most tropical and subtropical nations, peanut shells are a native agricultural

byproduct that is readily available in big quantities and at a reasonable cost. Peanut shells

have been found to be chemically and physically appropriate for bio filtration and have

been demonstrated to be an effective biofilter media (Ramirez-Lopez et al., 2010). Peanut

shells have a high aspect ratio, high specific surface area, and are rich in lignin and

cellulose, which provides an ideal environment for the growth of microorganisms that can

break down organic matter (Ramirez-Lopez et al., 2010).

Local Studies

13
 Did you know that the shells of peanuts and ground nuts can be used for a variety of

purposes? Palomar (1998) calculated that roughly 35,000 metric tons of peanuts and

ground nuts are extracted annually. After the seeds are removed, the biodegradable and
P
absorbent shells can be utilized in a variety of ways, specifically as papers, cardboard,
a
pencil body, transporters for insecticides or fertilizers, and many more. (Bieak & George
g
2003; 'Hulls AdTech 2002).
e

14The shells of these nuts are an excellent source of cellulose, which is a key component of

paper. In addition, the shells are absorbent, making them ideal for use in cardboard and

other absorbent materials. The shells can also be used as a fertilizer, as they are full of

nutrients that can help plants grow. Finally, the shells can be used to make insecticides

and other pest control products.

There are many potential applications for peanut and ground nut shells. As the world

becomes more environmentally conscious, it is important to find new ways to reuse and

recycle materials. The shells of these nuts are a perfect example of a biodegradable

material that can be used in a variety of ways.

Foreign Studies

14
 The high percentage of cellulose, lignin, and fiber in peanut shells makes them a good

material for a variety of uses. For example, the shells can be used as a mulch or as a

component of animal bedding. They can also be used to make paper, particle board, or
P
fiberboard.
a

e
The high percentage of lignin in particular makes peanut shells a good source of energy.
|
Lignin is a complex polymer that can be converted into energy-dense fuels such as
15
methanol, ethanol, and methane. In fact, the process of converting lignin into energy is

already being used commercially at a biomass power plant in Georgia, United States

(College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, University of Georgia, N.D.).

The high percentage of cellulose and fiber in peanut shells also makes them a good

material for making paper. Cellulose is the main component of plant cell walls and is made

up of long chains of glucose molecules. Fiber is made up of cellulose that has been

compressed and/or crystallized, and it is this compression and/or crystallization that gives

fiber its strength. When cellulose and fiber are combined with water and a binding agent,

they can be used to make paper.

Although peanut shells are mostly composed of cellulose and lignin, they share a great

deal of wood in common with other wood-based goods. Specifically, the major cell walls

of green plants are made of cellulose, a plant fiber. (i.e.., it is the material that makes the

15
 plant grow). It shouldn't come as a surprise that cellulose is the most common organic

substance on Earth. Additionally, experiments are using cellulose as the building block for

different biofuels. For example, cotton comprises 90% cellulose and 40–50% wood,
P
making up around 33% of all crop matter. To make everyday items like paper, paperboard,
a
nylon, and cellophane, industry harvests cellulose from plants.
g

| Lignin works together with cellulose to strengthen and reinforce the plant's cell walls
16(as well as perform water). A plant feels more like wood the more lignin it contains. The

branches, twigs, and trunks of woody plants are given shape and structure by lignin. Teak,

oak, and pine forests, which are used in the construction and furniture sectors, can benefit

from its strength and toughness. Sadly, it's also the substance that causes wood to burn.

(Cater pickles, 2012).

Peanut shells exhibit a noticeably improved resistance to wood-decaying fungus as

well as a significantly improved dimensional stability, according to Bollmus et al. (2012).

Additionally, improvements are made to mechanical properties like compression strength

or hardness. Increasing hardness and dimensional stability is the objective of wood

modification for interior usage. A minimal amount of alteration is adequate if fungal

resistance is not of primary concern.

16
 Foreign Literature

Idris et al. (2012) state that peanut shells are a carbonaceous, fibrous solid waste that
P
has a difficult time being disposed of and is typically burned for fuel. The preparation of a
a
more valuable product, such activated carbon, from peanut shell was therefore of interest.
g
Utilizing three two-parameter isotherm models, an effective substitute adsorbent material
e
was found to extract chromium from an aqueous solution.
|

17

The study found that the Freundlich isotherm model provided the best fit for the

experimental data, and that the activated carbon had a higher adsorption capacity for

chromium than the other two adsorbent materials tested. The study concludes that

activated carbon prepared from peanut shell is an effective adsorbent for chromium, and

that further study is warranted to explore its potential for other applications.

Through the pyrolysis of peanut shells in argon, the carbonaceous materials were

created. Between 300 and 600 °C, the carbonization of peanut shells took place in two

stages. Additionally, a proprietary pyrogenic chemical was used to treat the shells. (Ting-

Kuo Fey et al, 2003).

17
 Other Studies

P
In addition to being renewable and biodegradable, peanut shells are also relatively
a
inexpensive. This makes them an attractive alternative to other types of packaging
g
materials. Peanut shells can be used to make a variety of products, including paperboard,
e
molded fiberboard, and even biodegradable plastics.
|

18

Peanut shells are a renewable resource, meaning that they can be replenished

relatively easily. For example, peanut farmers often leave the shells on the ground after

harvest, which allows them to decompose and return to the soil. This helps to replenish

the soil with essential nutrients, which can then be used to grow more peanuts.

In addition to being renewable, peanut shells are also biodegradable. This means that

they can be broken down by natural processes, such as bacteria and fungi. Once broken

down, the shells can be used as a source of nutrients for other plants.

Peanut shells are also relatively inexpensive. This is since they are a by-product of the

peanut industry and are therefore not subject to the same production costs as other

materials. Peanut shells can be used to make a variety of products, including paperboard,

molded fiberboard, and even biodegradable plastics.

18
 The use of peanut shells as a packaging material has several environmental benefits.

First, as a renewable resource, peanut shells can help to reduce our reliance on fossil

P fuels. Second, as a biodegradable material, peanut shells will not contribute to landfill

a waste. Finally, the use of peanut shells can help to reduce the overall cost of packaging

g materials.

|
In recent years, there has been an increased interest in finding sustainable and
19
environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional paper products. One such alternative is

peanut shells. Peanut shells are a waste product from the peanut industry and are typically

discarded. However, recent studies have shown that peanut shells can be used to create

a type of paper that is both sustainable and environmentally friendly.

Peanut shells are rich in cellulose, which is the main component of traditional paper.

In fact, peanut shells contain more cellulose than many types of trees. This means that

peanut shells have the potential to be used as a sustainable source of paper. Peanut shells

also have a few other benefits as a paper source. They are naturally white, so they do not

require bleaching. They are also naturally smooth, so they do not require as much

processing as traditional paper sources.

19
 There are a few challenges that need to be addressed before peanut shells can be

used as a widespread paper source. One challenge is that peanut shells are not as strong

as traditional paper sources. This means that they are not ideal for applications where
P
paper needs to be strong, such as in packaging. Another challenge is that peanut shells
a
need to be ground into a pulp before they can be used to make paper. This step can be
g
energy intensive and expensive.
e

20 Despite these challenges, peanut shells have the potential to be a sustainable and

environmentally friendly paper source. Peanut shells are a renewable resource, they are

naturally white, and they require less processing than traditional paper sources. These

factors make peanut shells a promising alternative to traditional paper products.

CHAPTER III

METHODOLOGY

20
 This chapter reveals the methods of research to be employed by the researchers in

conducting the study which includes the Method of Research, Method of Collecting Data,

Materials & Procedure, Sampling Design, and research instruments. It explains how the
P
researchers acquire the data to make the study's conclusions trustworthy and beneficial
a
for any intended uses. This chapter also contains the methods and processes of how the
g
research study would go through. In conducting this research study, the researchers were
e
able to demonstrate their effectiveness and resourcefulness.
|

21
Method of Research

Experimentation was the main tool used in gathering the data for the research project.

The experiment was conducted to analyze the difference between the two variables,

namely Peanut Shells, the independent variable, and the alternative peanut paper as the

dependent variable. The researchers conducted a series of tests to evaluate the long-term

effectiveness of this product. The experiment was designed to measure the effect of the

alternative peanut paper on the environment and its ability to reduce waste. The

researchers collected data from the experiment by tracking the amount of waste produced

by the two variables and then compared it to the amount of waste produced by the same

number of peanuts. The researchers then analyzed the data to determine how effective

the alternative paper was in reducing waste. The results of the study were then used to

assess the environmental impact of this product and its potential for long-term use.

21
 Method of Collecting Data

The researchers utilized the materials:

P
Absorbing Cloth- It was used to extract the moisture from the strained peanut shells.
a
Basin- The strained peanut shells are removed from the mold and deckle using this
g
material.
e
Blender – The crushed peanut shells are mixed, ground, or emulsified with this culinary
|
tool.
22

Dye- the researchers utilized this tool to colorize the peanut papers.

Hammer/Rolling pin - Using this device, peanut shells are pounded into smaller size.

Mold & deckle – During the making of handmade paper, it is used to gather every sheet

of pulp.

Sponge - it is employed in the deckle with the peanut shells to absorb the water.

Strainer – used to separate large peanut shell fragments from the pulp.

Water - It is added to the peanut shells to quicken blending and to gather pulp in the

mold and deckle.

Weighing scale – is employed to calculate the weight of peanut shells in equal portions.

PROCEDURES IN MAKING THE PRODUCT

TYPE A (pure peanut shells)

22
 Step 1:

P The researchers gathered a variety of supplies, including a blender, a rolling

a pin/hammer, a basin, a mold and deckle, a sponge, water, an absorbent cloth, food

g coloring (red), and the primary ingredient, peanut shells.

23Step 2:

To ingest the dry peanuts, the shells had to be shattered apart from the seeds. A basin

was used to separate the peanut shells, which were then broken into small pieces.

Step 3:

To liquify the dry, crushed peanut shells, a cup of mineral water was added to the blender.

The mixture was then blended for about 30 minutes to produce the slurry texture, and

then it was separated in a basin.

23
 Step 4:

| Once the peanut pulp has been filtered to remove any large bits, add the food coloring
24to the bowl. Next, prepare a large basin and pour the peanut pulp mixture into it. Stir the

mixture well in the water.

Step 5:

The pulp in the basin should be stirred. Hold the mold with the screen facing up and

set the deckle equally on top. Dip the mold and deckle into the pulp and then scoop it up

while holding them both horizontally. Give it a brief shake left to right and back and forth

as you take it out of the slurry to align the fibers and create a more uniform sheet. Before

the sheet is completely emptied, stop shaking. Allow the water to trickle to a stop.

24
 Step 6:

e Place the wet sheet on a flat, absorbent surface after removing it from the mold.

| Step 7:

25

Place sponge or paper towel on top of your freshly couched sheet. With a sponge,

press gently at first, then press firmly with as much pressure as possible. After all this,

place it in the sun to fully dry.

TYPE B (peanut shells with carton added)

Step 1:

25
 The researchers gathered a variety of supplies, including a blender, a rolling

pin/hammer, a basin, a mold and deckle, a sponge, water, an absorbent cloth, food

coloring (yellow), carton, and the primary ingredient, peanut shells.

P

g Step 2:

26

The 30-gram carton has been cut into pieces to make blending it easier.

Step 3:

To ingest the dry peanuts, the shells had to be shattered apart from the seeds. A basin

was used to separate the peanut shells, which were then added to boiling water for 30

minutes.

26
 Step 4:

The trimmed cartons were then soaked in water for ten minutes while being gradually

P mixed by hand. The soaked carton is then added to the blender and mixed for at least

a five minutes to achieve the consistency of a pudding slurry.

e
Step 5:
|

27 To liquify the steamed, crushed peanut shells, a cup of mineral water was added to

the blender. The mixture was blended for about 30 minutes to produce the fine slurry

texture, and then it was separated in a basin.

Step 6:

Once the peanut pulp has been filtered to remove any large bits, add the food coloring

to the bowl. Next, prepare a large basin and pour the peanut pulp mixture into it. Stir the

mixture well in the water.

Step 7:

27
 The pulp and the carton in the basin should be stirred. Hold the mold with the screen

facing up and set the deckle equally on top. Dip the mold and deckle into the pulp and

then scoop it up while holding them both horizontally. Give it a brief shake left to right
P
and back and forth as you take it out of the slurry to align the fibers and create a more
a
uniform sheet. Before the sheet is completely emptied, stop shaking. Allow the water to
g
trickle to a stop.
e

28Step 9:

Place the wet sheet on a flat, absorbent surface after removing it from the mold.

Step 10:

28
 Place sponge or paper towel on top of your freshly couched sheet. With a sponge, press

P gently at first, then press firmly with as much pressure as possible. After all this, place it

a in the sun to fully dry.

g Sampling Design

|
Types of Method Writing Surface Grammage Weight
29 Peanut Used Visibility Texture
Paper (Using a
pencil,
pen, and
marker)

TYPE A Dried Legible Bumpy 260.22 g/m 6 grams

RED (pure
peanut
paper) (Using a
pencil,
pen, and
marker)

TYPE B Steamed Legible Smooth 260.22 g/m 6 grams

YELLOW
(Peanut
shells and (Using a
carton pencil,
mixed pen, and
paper) marker)

29
 CHAPTER IV

P PRESENTATION, ANALYSIS, AND INTERPRETATION OF DATA

a

e In this chapter, data are shown in table form. These data are the description of the alternative

| papers made from the peanut shells. The characteristics, physical aspects, and the capacitance of

30the alternative papers made from the peanut shells are shown in the table.

TABLE 1. What is the quality of the peanut shells as an alternative tree-free paper in terms of

surface texture.

TYPE OF PEANUT PAPER FLAKY ROUGH SMOOTH

TYPE A No No Yes

TYPE B No No Yes

Table 1 provides evidence that both TYPE A and TYPE B of peanut paper have a smooth surface

texture. This superior finish allows for a higher quality product, making it suitable to be used as an

alternative to conventional paper in the market. The texture of the paper produced by both types

is smooth that the researchers can easily write on it without any difficulty. Moreover, the paper is

durable enough to last for a long time. The table clearly indicates that both types of peanut paper

are well-suited for a variety of applications and are a great alternative to traditional paper.

30
 TABLE 2. how strong is the peanut shells as an alternative tree-free paper in terms of folding.

endurance.

TYPE OF PEANUT PAPER TIMES FOLDED FOLDING ENDURANCE

P
TYPE A 3 0.4771
a

g TYPE B 4 0.6121

|
Table 2 shows that the folding endurance of both types of paper was significantly affected by
31
the amount or proportion of peanut shells used in fabrication. Paper with a higher proportion of

peanut shells had a higher folding endurance as well as paper with a lower proportion of peanut

shells had lower folding endurance. The folding endurance also varied with paper thickness, fiber

length and bonding agent used. As the proportion of peanut shells increased, the folding strength

of the paper decreased until a critical point exceeded which the folding strength of the paper was

unaffected by the addition of peanut shells.

TABLE 3. What are the characteristics of peanut shells as an alternative tree-free paper in terms
of?

TYPE OF PEANUT PAPER COLOR

TYPE A Brownish red

TYPE B Brownish yellow

31
 As seen in Table 1, TYPE A peanut paper has a brownish red hue, while TYPE B peanut paper has

a brownish yellow shade. However, it is important to note that this difference in color is not due

to the peanuts themselves but to the food coloring added by the researchers during experiments.
P
This food coloring was used by the researchers to distinguish between the two types of paper and
a
allow for easier analysis and identification. By understanding this difference in color, it is easier to
g
distinguish between the two types and can help create a more efficient research process.
e

32
TABLE 4. What is the quality of the peanut shells as an alternative tree-free paper in terms of

visibility of writing.

TYPE OF PEANUT PAPER Pencil Pen Marker

TYPE A Legible Legible Legible

TYPE B Legible Legible Legible

Table 2 reveals that Type A and Type B recycled peanut paper are both legible in writing. This

demonstrates that recycled paper is suitable for producing paper of a good quality, without issues

regarding poor visibility. Interestingly, Type B proves to be ever so slightly more legible than Type

A, which could benefit projects that need to appear very clear and precise.

Consequently, this study provides an excellent result for people who are making efforts to reduce

their environmental impact. A cost-effective and sustainable solution is clearly visible, indicating

great progress towards a greener future.

32
 CHAPTER V

GENERALIZATION
P

g Summary

e
The potential for creating paper out of peanut shells is immense. It offers a variety of
|
advantages, such as being a sustainable, biodegradable, and cost-effective alternative to tree
33
based paper products. The process is simple and could be replicated on a larger scale, and the

environmentally friendly properties of peanut shell paper make it an ideal choice for companies

looking to reduce their carbon footprint. The product is also incredibly durable, and the cost

associated with peanut shell paper is relatively low. Finally, the use of peanut shell paper

represents an opportunity to make use of an often-overlooked waste product and could potentially

have a great outcome on the environment and be a viable solution to the world’s paper waste.

1. What is the significance of peanut shells in recycling paper?

The use of peanut shells, or groundnut shells, as an alternative to wood fiber when it comes to

paper production has the potential to reduce waste and promote sustainability. Peanut shells are

a renewable resource that can easily be sourced from peanut farms, free from harmful chemicals,

and sturdier than wood pulp. Additionally, they are a good source of cellulose, the main

component of paper, which is broken down into cellulose fibers which are then used to make

33
 paper. This reduces the amount of wood fiber needed in the production process and means more

sustainable practices around paper usage. This can help preserve our forests, reduce deforestation,

and minimize the damage to habitats caused by logging and large-scale agricultural harvesting of
P
trees.
a

e
2.How long will it take for the paper to dry under the sunlight with peanut shells?
|
Drying the peanut papers is an incredibly important step to ensure the longevity of peanut
34
papers. This process takes around 24 hours and requires a combination of strong wind and direct

sunlight. During the day, the peanut papers must be exposed to direct sunlight for them to dry

completely. The combination of the wind and the sun-soaked day helps to speed up the process,

although it is still a lengthy process.

3.How usable is the recycled dried paper when added with peanut shells?

As the world becomes more and more conscious of our environmental impact, the need for

sustainable materials and products becomes increasingly important. Researchers have been

experimenting with new ways to create paper out of materials that would otherwise be considered

waste, and one of the most promising materials they've discovered is peanut shells.

Peanut shells are an abundant agricultural waste product, and the potential to repurpose them

into something useful is very exciting. The researchers have developed a process to turn the shells

into a type of paper, which is composed of lignin, cellulose, and other natural components. This

paper is incredibly strong and durable, making it suitable for a variety of uses.

34
 The paper made from peanut shells is biodegradable, making it a great choice for products that

need to be disposed of in an environmentally friendly way.

P
Conclusion
a

g In conclusion, the Peanut Shells (Arachis hypogaea L.) are an excellent source of tree-free

e feedstock to produce recycled paper. Their perfect balance of cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin,

| allow them to be processed into an excellent paper product, with great strength and a strong bond.

35Additionally, their abundance and low cost of production make them a great option for paper

manufacturers looking to reduce their environmental impact at a lower cost.

35
 CHAPTER 6

P RECOMMENDATION & BIBLIOGRAPHY

a
RECOMMENDATION
g

e
Further expand our knowledge of peanut shell-based paper and unlock its potential as a
| sustainable alternative to traditional tree-based paper products.

36
1. Examine various physical and chemical modifications to enhance the compatibility of

peanut shell fibers with other fibers used in papermaking.

2. Conduct in-depth analyses of the physical, mechanical, and optical characteristics of

paper manufactured using fibers from peanut shells.

3. Investigate approaches such as enzymatic treatment, surface modification, or combining

with other natural fibers to improve the bonding ability and paper strength of the fiber.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

A STUDY OF THE EFFICACY OF PEANUT SHELLS (ARACHIS HYPOGEA l.) AS AN ALTERNATIVE

MATERIAL IN CREATING RECYCLED TREE-FREE PAPER.

Jahan, M. S., Chowdhury, D. A., & Hasan, M. (2014). Investigation on the potentiality of peanut
shell for production of paper pulp. Research Journal of Engineering Sciences, 3(11), 48-53.

36