FIRELING: THE DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT OF

AN ALTERNATIVE FIRE STARTER UTILIZED

FOR COOKING PURPOSES

Research Manuscript

Members:

Bagasbas, Erika Mae

Bautista, Angelica
De Borja, Marvince
Herrera, Shania
Labao, Mary Nicole
Lee, Samantha Victoria
Marangit, Rakisah
Ramos, Saadodin
Sinagpulo, Ryan
Sumulong, Wilbur Jade
Valencia, Mikyla
 FIRELING: THE DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT OF
AN ALTERNATIVE FIRE STARTER UTILIZED
FOR COOKING PURPOSES

CHAPTER 1
THE PROBLEM AND ITS BACKGROUND

INTRODUCTION

Throughout history, fire starters have played a crucial role as ignition

devices. They are often composed of combustible materials such as wood

particles and sawdust and have been proven to be extraordinarily useful in

starting the flames necessary for heating, warmth, and, in some critical

situations, even survival. In this research, Fireling provides an alternative to

portable gas stoves. Hence, it is important to note that fuels like butane gas have

remained an ongoing worldwide concern. According to New Jersey Health, “to its

potential danger of explosions, and potential exposure to high concentrations

could cause negative effects to human health ranging from lightheadedness and

unconsciousness to direct toxicity in the brain and myocardium.” Additional

dangers of using butane gas stove ranges from overheating and gas leakage that

could lead to fatalities and casualties.

 In the Philippines, almost 30% of households utilize charcoal for cooking,

particularly in certain rural areas. These are commonly found and are very

accessible. However, it is also important to note that charcoal is one of the

leading sources of indoor or household air pollution. According to Greenpeace

Southeast Asia (2020), “Air pollution from fossil fuels—primarily coal, oil, and gas

—is attributed to causing an estimated 27,000 premature deaths per year in the

Philippines." Moreover, health hazards at every stage of the coal life cycle

contribute to the growth of heart, lung, and neurological diseases; thus, it poses

an urgent cause for concern and solution.

The local community also has a problem concerning the disposal of waste

paper. In accordance with the Environmental Studies Institute of Miriam College,

they said only 60% of the 100 tons produced each year are recycled, with the

rest discarded at landfills. With waste paper being the second most produced

solid waste in the Philippines, only a few utilize it to its fullest potential. The

researchers observed that even unknowing locals throw them out in the

neighborhood, which contributes to improper waste disposal and may have an

impact on the current lives of the locals, especially the local environment. The

researchers also observed the rising concern over wood waste, particularly wood

shavings, and aim to utilize its full capacity for this research.
BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

Fireling was founded in response to a compelling need to address several

significant issues in the Philippines, particularly in Floodway, Taytay. The product

was founded to become a ray of hope by providing a sustainable and cleaner

combustion alternative, motivated by a desire to reduce harmful emissions

produced by traditional fire-starting methods such as charcoal.

Using locally abundant resources such as sawdust and waste paper—the

country's second most produced solid waste—fireling not only provides a

dependable fire-starting alternative but also makes a significant contribution to

waste reduction initiatives. Marking a significant shift towards sustainable and

healthier alternative fire-starting techniques. This comprehensive strategy shows

how to use resources in a way that does not entirely harm the environment,

turning a problem into a chance to make the environment better, which is a

hopeful solution to these issues.

STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

Traditional methods of starting cooking fires, which rely heavily on

traditional fire-starting tools such as charcoal, have remained essential to

meeting cooking needs for generations. These methods, however, raise

concerns about environmental concerns and environmental impact.

The purpose of this research is to evaluate all the necessary aspects

concerning Fireling: An Alternative Fire Starter as a potential substitute for

traditional fire starting tools that can be utilized for cooking purposes. This

research aims to address the following research concerns:

● Is it possible to use a fire starter made of sawdust, waste paper, and

kangkong oil wax as a cooking fire alternative?

● Will the fire from this fire starter be hot enough to cook food for more than

an hour?

● What advantages does Fireling possess as opposed to conventional fire

starters?

● What interventions may be proposed to enhance the capabilities of

Fireling?
OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

The goals of this research are to assess and evaluate the viability,

efficacy, and advantages of Fireling: An Alternative Fire Starter Utilized for

Cooking Purposes which is made from sawdust, waste paper, and kangkong oil

wax.

1. To create a fire starter alternative using sawdust, waste paper, and

kangkong oil wax that can be utilized for cooking.

2. To test Fireling's ability to generate heat consistently for more than an

hour while cooking.

3. To research specific advantages that Fireling has over traditional fire

starters.

4. To create and develop interventions to improve Fireling's capabilities and

performance.
CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK

INPU PROCES OUTPUT

Quantitative
Research
Materials used:

Recycled sawdust Data Gathering Fireling: An

Kangkong oil Wax Procedures
Organic Alternative Fire
ally Admin Starter Utilized
produced Interview
Waste Paper Close-
Old ended
newspaper Questionnair
Scratch es
papers Survey
Trash of
papers Respondent
Common Safety s
Match
Common Statistical
Matchbox Treatment

The Input phase consists of recycled sawdust, kangkong oil wax, organic waste

paper (including old newspapers, scratch papers, and trash papers), common

safety matches, common matchboxes, phosphorous, a metal grill box, and an

improvised mixer created by the researchers that will be used for the creation of

Fireling.
The Process phase uses quantitative methods to gather data. Administrative

interviews to gather expert insights, close-ended questionnaires administered to

a diverse study population, and surveys to collect specific feedback are

examples of quantitative methods. The statistical treatment analyzes the data

using the weighted mean formula. Scaling will utilize the Likert scale to

accurately measure and interpret respondents' attitudes and perceptions.

The last phase is the Output phase. This research will result in a product called

"Fireling." It can be used as an alternative fire starter for cooking. This innovative

fire starter aims to provide a sustainable and efficient method of starting fires,

particularly for cooking purposes, while also providing an eco-friendly solution by

repurposing otherwise discarded materials.

SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

The result of this research will benefit the following entities: researchers,

future researchers, students, teachers, and beneficiaries.

RESEARCHERS. The product that the researchers produce is evidence

that kangkong can be used as an ingredient in alternative fire starters. This will

enlighten them on how kangkong can be used as a base for wax creation that

could be used for the creation of an alternative fire starter for the purpose of

cooking. Additionally, the researchers will be able to determine the right ratio of

ingredients to use in order for the Fireling to burn for more than an hour and be

hot enough to cook for the duration.

FUTURE RESEARCHERS. This research paper will provide future

researchers with a reference when conducting similar research in the future. The

researchers also suggest that future researchers investigate the gaps in

knowledge that were not explored by the current researchers.

 STUDENTS. The students who read this research may draw up their own

ideas for their research by using this project as inspiration. They may also try to

explore the gaps that were left unexplored by the researchers, as stated in their

scope and delimitations. The students may also be more environmentally aware

with the help of this research.

TEACHERS. The teachers who read this may be more aware of the level

and capability of the researchers conducting this study. Since this paper is the

final product of their observations and research, it is also a testament to their

skills and ability to effectively create a product and write a research paper.

Additionally, it may give the teachers information on the topics or trends in

research in the particular year the study was conducted because the researchers

may be following a trend or a common issue that needs to be solved.

BENEFICIARIES. This study aims to create an alternative fire starter for

the purpose of cooking that utilizes sawdust and waste paper, which is timely and

a relevant issue within households. In addition, this product will also provide an

alternative way of cooking for those who do not have access to gas and electric

stoves.
SCOPE AND DELIMITATIONS

By defining the scope and delimitations, the study provides a clear framework for

understanding the boundaries and parameters within which the alternative fire

starter concept is explored.

The scope of this research is limited to creating a single-use cooking fire

starter by combining sawdust, waste paper, and kangkong oil wax to achieve a

burn time of more than one hour that can be successfully used for cooking

practices.

This research is limited to regions where sawdust and waste paper are

abundant and accessible, as the availability of raw materials is a crucial factor.

The effectiveness of fire starters made with sawdust, waste paper, and

kangkong-based wax may vary based on climatic conditions, and the study is

limited to environments where these fire starters can reliably perform. Since the

researchers' product is still in the developmental stage, it is not advised to use it

commercially or at any nearby establishments.

The cultural acceptance and utilization of this alternative fire starter are

considered within specific cultural contexts, influencing its adoption and use. The

product is limited to cooking purposes only; certain conditions, such as the effect

of smoke from this product on the food, environmental effects, and the viability of

use in various weather conditions, will not be accounted for.

DEFINITION OF TERMS

To make the study understandable, the researchers included a definition

of terms that will serve as a guide to readers. The following are some of the

terms used and their meanings:

Fireling - The name of the product stands for fire and uling (charcoal),

which, in a creative way, means flaming charcoal.

Fire starter - A small block of material that burns very easily and is used

for helping to start wood or coal fires.

Kangkong oil wax - Kangkong oil wax is a wax product that is derived

from kangkong, which is also known as water spinach or swamp cabbage. Made

by putting direct fire on a damp spinach leaf, extracting oil from the leaf, and

using it to create a sustainable wax.

Waste paper - paper that you throw away that hasn’t been used/needed.

Sawdust - Wood dust, or sawdust, is a byproduct of woodworking

processes like cutting, smoothing, shaping, and carving. It is composed of tiny

wood particles.

Airflow - Air flow essentially starves the fire of oxygen, meaning it burns

less cleanly.
 CHAPTER 2
REVIEWS OF RELATED LITERATURE

FOREIGN STUDIES

This study investigated fuel briquettes made from charcoal particles of

Idigbo wood, pinewood sawdust, and their mixtures using gelatinized cassava

peels as a binder. Briquettes were produced at various blending ratios, and their

properties were analyzed. Higher charcoal content increased fixed carbon and

heating value, while higher pine sawdust content raised volatile matter and

reduced heating value. Pure charcoal briquettes had the highest heating value

and ash content. The briquettes showed improved combustion properties

compared to raw charcoal, pine dust, and cassava peel. Overall, the study

suggests that these briquettes could be effective as fuel for domestic and

industrial use (Ajimotokan et al., 2019).

The study on fuel briquettes made from charcoal particles and pinewood sawdust

provides valuable insights for the upcoming fire starter development using

kangkong wax, waste paper, and sawdust. The focus on blending ratios and their

impact on key properties, such as heating value and ash content, guides us in
optimizing the composition. The study highlights the trade-off of higher

charcoal content enhancing heating value but increasing ash content, a

consideration for the formulation. With the goal of creating a long-lasting fire

starter for cooking, the study emphasizes the importance of adjusting material

ratios for optimal burning properties. Overall, it suggests that a well-optimized

blend of materials could result in an effective and efficient fire starter suitable for

various uses.

The study examines the influence of agricultural residue type, binder type,

and amount on carbonized briquette properties, utilizing biochars from groundnut

shells, sugarcane bagasse, coffee husks, and rice husks. Using a cost-effective

compression method, the research reveals significant effects on physical

properties (fixed carbon, ash content, volatile matter, and moisture) and calorific

values. With only cassava starch binder, residue type plays a crucial role, while

increasing the binder amount has minimal impact. In experiments with both

cassava and wheat starch binders, briquette properties are notably influenced by

residue and binder type. Calorific values for groundnut shell and bagasse

briquettes peak with 30 g of cassava starch binder, and changes in binder

amounts have negligible effects on heating values for these briquettes

(Lubwama et al., 2020).

The study on carbonized briquettes using different agricultural residues and

binders provides insights applicable to the development of a fire starter made of

kangkong wax, waste paper, and sawdust. The research emphasizes the

influence of binder type, amount, and agricultural residue type on briquette

properties and calorific values. For the fire starter project, experimenting with

various binders may impact burning characteristics, and the choice of agricultural

residue could influence burning efficiency. The study also highlights differences

in calorific values based on residue types, offering valuable information for

optimizing the energy content of the fire starter. While materials differ, the study

provides a foundation for refining the fire starter's composition and improving its

performance for prolonged and efficient cooking. Further experiments, inspired

by the study's findings, could contribute to the development of a long-lasting and

effective fire starter.

The study seeks to create efficient cookstove fuel from various agricultural

wastes through fast pyrolysis, adjusting particle sizes, and compacting

pressures. Palm kernel shell briquettes excelled in key characteristics, boasting

high calorific value, volatile matter content, and fixed carbon while maintaining

low ash and moisture content. In rapid water boiling tests, palm kernel shell and

sawdust briquettes reached 100 ℃ within 10 minutes. Notably, palm kernel shell
briquettes of 0.60 mm particle size and 30 MPa compacting pressure exhibited

outstanding performance across multiple parameters (Sunnu et al., 2021).

The study on efficient cookstove fuel production, highlighting the success of palm

kernel shell briquettes, offers valuable insights for our fire starter research. The

exceptional performance of these briquettes, achieved through optimizing particle

sizes and compacting pressures, suggests potential improvements for our fire

starter composed of kangkong wax, waste paper, and sawdust. Notably, the

rapid water boiling tests showcase the promising performance of sawdust

briquettes, indicating that incorporating sawdust with similar adjustments may

contribute to our goal of creating a long-lasting fire starter for cooking food. The

study's practical guidance, especially regarding sawdust, provides valuable

direction for refining our fire starter formulation.

The study focuses on exploring the potential of biomass residues,

including coffee husk, sawdust, khat waste, and dry grass, for biofuel production.

Utilizing waste paper pulp and clay soil as binders, the biomass and binders were

combined in various ratios and densified using a piston press machine. The

briquettes were produced with a manually operated press at an average pressure

of 2 MPa. Analysis of the briquettes revealed favorable qualities, particularly

those produced from sawdust residue and paper pulp binder, showcasing

high fixed carbon content and calorific value. This suggests the viability of these

briquettes as an alternative energy source and an effective waste management

solution to reduce reliance on wood for fuel (Kebede et al., 2022).

The study on biomass residues and biofuel production suggests that adopting

waste paper pulp as binders for sawdust can enhance burning characteristics.

Key considerations for the fire starter research include experimenting with ratios

of kangkong wax, waste paper, and sawdust, adjusting binding materials, and

exploring variations in compacting pressures and particle sizes of the materials.

Emphasis on high fixed carbon content and calorific value for improved efficiency

and an extended burning duration. Incorporating other biomass residues may

also contribute to sustainability. Testing and refining based on these principles

may lead to a competitive and eco-friendly fire starter.

The study investigated briquettes made from groundnut shells, corn cobs,

and Anogeissus leiocarpus wood residues, as well as mixtures with starch

binders. The experiments focused on density, volatile matter, ash content, fixed

carbon, and the specific heat of combustion. Groundnut shell briquettes exhibited

the highest density, while A. Leiocarpus and corn cob particles showed the
lowest and highest ash content, respectively. Briquettes from A.

leiocarpus particles and a mixture of groundnut shell and A. Leiocarpus particles

with a 25% starch binder demonstrated superior quality in terms of density and

combustion properties. This suggests their suitability as an environmentally

friendly alternative energy source (Falemara et al., 2018).

The study on briquettes made from groundnut shells, corn cobs, and Anogeissus

leiocarpus wood residues, with starch binders, provides valuable insights for

enhancing the fire starter made of kangkong wax, waste paper, and sawdust. By

analyzing factors such as density, ash content, and combustion properties,

parallels can be drawn to optimize the fire starter's composition. The superior

quality demonstrated by A. Leiocarpus and groundnut shell mixtures with starch

binders in the study suggest a potential edge for the fire starter about to be

created in terms of environmental friendliness and combustion efficiency. To

improve the fire starter, adjusting particle sizes or exploring additional binders

may be considered. Incorporating information gathered from the study on the

optimal characteristics of briquettes could contribute to achieving the goal of

creating a long-lasting fire starter capable of effectively cooking food for over an

hour.
FOREIGN LITERATURE

This study in Maroua addresses the waste management issue by

quantifying paper and cardboard trash and evaluating its potential for

combustible briquette manufacturing. The annual rejected paper waste collected

from families, public sectors, corporate entities, and retail centers weighs around

81,713.00 kg. When processed with alkali solution, combustible briquettes with a

moisture percentage of 4.020.47% and greater fixed carbon content could be

formed, with an estimated yearly production of 102.141 tons. This may effectively

replace around 153.2 tons of firewood, demonstrating the potential to

dramatically reduce firewood usage and deforestation through the use of

recycled paper and cardboard waste for cooking energy (Dzokom et al., 2021).

The findings can be used as a foundation for our future research into using paper

waste in combination with other substances as fire starters in cooking. The study

provides critical insights into the viability and scalability of our proposed solution

by estimating the annual rejected paper waste and analyzing its potential for

combustible briquette production. The examination of physicochemical factors,

such as moisture content and fixed carbon content, gives important data for

guiding our fire starter manufacturing process. In addition, the investigation of

alkali solution pretreatment provides prospective strategies for improving

briquette characteristics and burning efficiency. The study highlights the

significant potential of our research to contribute to a reduction in firewood

consumption and align with sustainability and deforestation reduction objectives,

with an estimated yearly production of combustible briquettes capable of

replacing around 153.2 tons of firewood.

This article proposes an Ecological Fire Starter (EFS) built from sawdust

and vegetable oils to address indoor air pollution in Cameroon's Far North area.

Plastic garbage is currently widely used to start solid fuel fires, creating health

dangers, particularly to women and children who cook. According to the report,

many people use different plastics as fire starts. The usage of plastic in the

region might result in significant yearly CO2 eq emissions. Despite the fact that

EFS has a manufacturing capacity of 1000 tons, the expected requirement in

2022 is 894 tons. With flexible lower heating settings, EFS provides

environmental, health, and economic benefits. Advocacy is done to encourage

the use of EFS in poor countries (Kodji et al., 2023).

The researchers pull ideas from an article suggesting an Ecological Fire Starter

(EFS) built from sawdust and vegetable oils in their research targeted at

constructing a long-lasting fire starter utilizing kangkong wax, waste paper,

sawdust, and other ingredients. While the primary goal is to create an

effective fire starter, the inclusion of sawdust and vegetable oils in the EFS

reflects the researcher's desire to include ecologically beneficial components.

The article emphasizes the health concerns of utilizing plastic waste for cooking,

compelling the researchers to consider health consequences in the design of

their fire starter. Despite the fact that the main focus does not directly address

environmental concerns, the article's mention of potential CO2 emissions from

plastic use demonstrates the researcher's understanding of the additional

environmental advantage of developing an eco-friendly fire starter.

Sawdust, a substantial byproduct of Manicaland province's sawmills in

Zimbabwe, poses an environmental threat when incinerated or left to

accumulate. This study explores the potential of converting this waste into

briquettes using banana waste pulp as a cost-effective local binder. The quality

of the fabricated briquettes improves with higher binder ratios, with the 1:4

sawdust-binder ratio demonstrating optimal qualities. Evaluation criteria include

relative density, shatter index, ignition time, burning rate, and water boiling time.

Utilizing a factor rating method, the study identifies the top five binder

formulations based on factors such as time taken to boil water and shatter index,
with banana-pseudo stem-pith and ripe banana in a 3:1 ratio ranking highest

(Nyathi et al., 2022).

The study on converting sawdust into briquettes using banana waste pulp as a

cost-effective binder provides valuable insights for fire starter research with

kangkong wax, waste paper, and sawdust. The optimization of briquette qualities

through varying binder ratios aligns with the goal of creating a fire starter that

lasts for more than an hour and effectively cooks food. The evaluation criteria

used in the study offer a framework for assessing the performance of the fire

starter. Additionally, the exploration of different binder formulations, particularly

the success of banana-pseudo stem-pith and ripe banana in a 3:1 ratio, suggests

experimenting with various binders, potentially including kangkong wax or

exploring other alternatives. The study provides a foundation for refining the fire

starter composition and optimizing its qualities to meet the specified goals.

The study focuses on assessing the combustion properties of briquettes

made from Ficus exasperata sawdust and Cassava peel using various binders.

Different binder ratios were employed, including top bond, starch, and cattle

dung. Proximate composition analysis indicates a significant difference in ash

content. Binder evaluation highlights starch as having the highest heating value
(HV), while cattle dung has the lowest. The substrate analysis reveals that

sawdust achieves the highest HV, while cassava peel has the lowest,

accompanied by a significantly higher ash content. The study concludes that

briquettes consisting of a sawdust and cassava peel mixture, bonded with starch,

exhibit optimal burning characteristics, presenting a viable alternative energy

source (Ogunjobi et al., 2023).

The study on the combustion properties of briquettes made from Ficus

exasperata sawdust and cassava peel using various binders provides valuable

insights for fire starter research. The use of different binders, including top bond,

starch, and cattle dung, allows for an exploration of binding agents to consider,

such as kangkong wax or other materials in the fire starter. The analysis of ash

content and heating value (HV) in different combinations of substrates and

binders helps understand the burning characteristics and energy efficiency of the

briquettes. The study suggests that the choice of binder, such as kangkong wax,

can influence heating values and burning efficiency, potentially affecting the

duration for which the fire starter can sustain and successfully cook food.

Emphasizing the optimal burning characteristics observed in briquettes with a

sawdust and cassava peel mixture bonded with starch, the study supports the

notion that a well-selected binder is crucial in achieving efficient burning for

prolonged cooking purposes.

 Using waste paper for heating on small islands with limited resources is a

good recycling option. However, concerns exist about air pollutants from burning

homemade paper briquettes, a major source of household air pollution. Tests

compared emissions from paper briquettes on a Pacific island with three

Australian fuels (wood briquettes, kindling firewood, and coal). Findings revealed

that paper briquettes burned quickly at high temperatures but had a low heat

value. They produced higher CO and NOx than others and similar PM2.5 levels

as kindling firewood but lower than wood briquettes. Particle size was larger for

paper and wood briquettes than coal and kindling. Emission factors for CO, NOx,

and PM2.5 were consistent with the literature. Overall, using paper briquettes for

heating is not expected to significantly increase air pollutant levels compared to

traditional fuels (Xiu et al., 2018).

For the researchers developing a fire starter composed of kangkong wax, waste

paper, and sawdust, the study on using waste paper for heating on small islands

proves insightful. The research reveals that paper briquettes, despite burning

quickly at high temperatures, exhibit a lower heat value. Interestingly, the larger

particle size observed in paper and wood briquettes compared to coal and

kindling may suggest a potential advantage in terms of respiratory health. Larger

particles are less likely to penetrate deeply into the lungs, potentially mitigating
concerns about air pollutants. Moreover, the study's findings on

emissions, including higher levels of CO and NOx, emphasize the importance of

understanding the trade-offs in terms of air quality. However, given the goal of

creating a fire starter that lasts for over an hour and cooks food effectively, the

team can leverage a combination of materials, including kangkong wax and

sawdust, to enhance burning efficiency and address the limitations associated

with paper alone.

LOCAL STUDIES

The study aimed to advocate for the utilization of biomass sourced from

agricultural waste, such as coconut shells, corn cobs, and waste paper, in the

form of briquettes as a sustainable substitute for wood fuel. The methodology

involved an extensive literature review focusing on the advantages and

production methods of briquettes from agricultural waste, with the goal of

addressing the demand for an alternative energy solution. Currently, researchers

are developing a proposal to manufacture briquettes from waste materials,

seeking to diminish dependence on trees for wood charcoal. This initiative aims

to conserve trees and broaden the range of fuel sources for a significant

portion of the population (Aporto et al., 2022).

The text provides comprehensive support for the utilization of waste paper in the

creation of alternative fire starters. Firstly, it emphasizes the environmental

advantages of repurposing waste paper, aligning with sustainability goals.

Additionally, the study explores the potential benefits of waste paper in briquettes

in terms of cost-effectiveness and widespread availability. It delves into the

combustion properties, comparing them to traditional wood fuel, to establish the

efficacy of waste paper as a viable alternative. Overall, the initiative aims to

reduce reliance on trees for wood charcoal, which is in line with one of the goals

of the current researchers in the creation of the fire starter, the Fireling.

Small farmers often resort to burning corn cobs as a supplement to

fuelwood for cooking, contributing to air pollution. Charcoal production is an

alternative, but it strains Philippine forests. This research explores the feasibility

of using corn cobs and sawdust as briquettes, offering an eco-friendly alternative

to wood charcoal. The experiment compared combustion time and efficiency in

boiling water for corn cob briquettes, sawdust briquettes, and commercial wood

charcoal. Findings suggest that both corn cob and sawdust briquettes have

potential as domestic energy sources, recommending their production as a

sustainable substitute for commercial wood charcoal (Betita et al., 2018).

The empirical evidence derived from this research substantiates the proposition

that the inclusion of sawdust as a constituent component in the fabrication of

briquettes contributes significantly to enhanced efficiency during the water boiling

test, particularly when compared against the performance of corn cob briquettes.

The discernible superiority in efficiency, as evidenced by the findings,

emphasizes the potential advantage conferred by the utilization of sawdust within

the briquette composition. This gives substance to the argument that the

integration of sawdust augments the overall effectiveness of the briquette,

particularly evident during the rigorous scrutiny of the water boiling test, thereby

positioning it as a noteworthy and preferential alternative. This implies that

incorporating sawdust into the creation of a fire starter could further enhance its

cooking performance, facilitating quicker attainment of desired heat levels.

The study explored the production of briquettes as an alternative fuel

using pyrolyzed dried mango leaves mixed with 20% starch as a binder. The

resulting briquettes demonstrated stability and a bulk density of 1.0234g/cc.

Comparisons with wood and coconut charcoal revealed similar moisture content

but significant variations in combustion properties. The briquettes, with a calorific

value of 7,471.97, may not match fossil fuels in quality but offer a cost-effective

alternative for domestic use (Ycaza & Barre, 2018).

In the pursuit of incorporating kangkong leaves into their research, the

researchers deemed it prudent to conduct a thorough review of extant studies

and literature concerning the utilization of leaves from diverse plant species in

similar applications, notably within the realm of fire starters and briquettes. This

deliberate inquiry aims to discern optimal methodologies for harnessing

kangkong leaves, fostering a nuanced understanding beyond initial ideas and

promoting a comprehensive exploration of potential applications.

The anticipated rise in global energy demand, driven by population

growth, emphasizes the need for alternative sources like renewable energy.

Among various options, biomass stands out as a widely available renewable

energy source. Agricultural residues such as rice husks and corn cobs, often left

to decompose or burn in open fields, pose environmental and health risks. Bio-

briquettes, derived from these wastes, offer a sustainable energy solution for

electricity, heat, and cooking, replacing traditional wood logs. This review covers

the production process, characteristics, and quality assessment of bio-briquettes,

highlighting advancements, challenges, and future trends in the bio-briquetting

industry (Sanchez et al., 2022).

The researchers have opted to employ sawdust and waste paper in their study,

prompting a comprehensive exploration of existing literature pertaining to these

materials. This endeavor culminated in the identification of an article clarifying the

utilization of agricultural waste. Both sawdust and waste paper can be

categorized as agricultural waste and emerge as viable biomass options for

cooking due to their efficient combustion properties. Additionally, their renewable

nature positions them as commendable alternatives to conventional fuels.

The significance of floor wax in households for enhancing floor

appearance often overlooks the potential health hazards posed by the chemicals

it contains. The research aimed to address this concern by exploring a natural

alternative using coconut meat, mitigating the risks associated with chemical

exposure. The experimentation revealed initial setbacks, with the first two setups

yielding unsatisfactory results. However, the third attempt, emphasizing a

balanced ratio of coconut meat to paraffin wax and minimizing cooking oil,

produced a successful outcome resembling conventional floor wax without

slippery attributes. Overall, the study demonstrated the viability of a natural floor
wax alternative, showcasing comparable efficacy to commercial

counterparts while emphasizing the importance of precise material

measurements. The researcher acknowledged the need to find an all-natural

substitute for candle wax to further enhance the product (Manimtim, 2019).

The application of coconut as a floor wax extends seamlessly to candle making

due to the versatile nature of coconut oil. The saturated fats in coconut oil,

responsible for its solidification at room temperature, make it an ideal candidate

for crafting candles. When utilized in candle production, coconut oil solidifies to

create a stable and long-lasting wax, ensuring the candle maintains its form and

burns evenly. The same qualities that contribute to coconut oil's effectiveness as

a floor wax, such as its desirable texture and conditioning properties, translate

into its suitability for candle wax. Consequently, coconut oil serves as a natural

and adaptable ingredient, offering a dual-purpose solution in both floor

maintenance and candle crafting while avoiding the chemical concerns

associated with traditional alternatives.

LOCAL LITERATURE

Kangkong, or water spinach, is a leafy vegetable thriving in aquatic

environments like swamps. It falls under the morning glory plant family,

scientifically named Ipomoea aquatica. With a constant water supply, Kangkong

can be cultivated throughout the year, gaining popularity among farmers for its

resilience and ease of growth (Braganza, 2023).

In the Philippines, Kangkong is readily accessible due to its widespread

cultivation across the country. Its abundance and ease of cultivation make it a

practical choice for creating fire starters. The decision to use Kangkong in

crafting these fire starters was driven by its year-round availability, unlike

seasonal materials that might pose challenges in production during the off-

season. This strategic choice ensures a consistent supply of the desired product

throughout the entire year.

The research utilized falcata sawdust to create briquettes using a manual

briquetting device with a single mold. The sawdust was combined with three

binders—cassava starch, paper pulp, and molasses—across different ratios

(70:30, 60:40, 50:50) and assessed for calorific value, boiling time, and

durability. Findings indicate a decrease in calorific value with an increase in

sawdust-to-binder ratio. Briquettes with a 70:30 ratio exhibited the quickest

boiling time.

Additionally, durability rose as the sawdust-to-binder ratio increased, with

cassava starch displaying the highest durability, followed by paper pulp. The

study also involved the creation of a manually operated briquetting machine,

capable of producing 25 briquettes in 5 minutes and yielding 300 briquettes per

hour (Eduagin et al., 2021).

This demonstrates that sawdust can be employed in crafting fire starters.

Combustible materials, including sawdust, are effective for igniting fires. The

challenge arises from their small size, leading to low thermal efficiency when

burned individually. Combining them into a compact form, such as a briquette or

as part of a fire starter, significantly improves thermal efficiency, requiring less

sawdust for combustion compared to burning it directly.

 This research investigates the environmental and health impacts of food

waste and coal emissions, proposing briquettes made from banana, orange

peels, and sawdust to mitigate these issues. Two binders, paper pulp and

cassava starch, were tested. The study assessed briquettes based on density,

burning rate, ignition time, and efficiency. Results indicate that orange and

cassava briquettes had the highest density, banana and paper had the lowest

burning rate, and sawdust and cassava performed best in the water boiling test.

The findings suggest potential improvements in production practices for eco-

friendly briquettes (Genuino et al., 2022).

The research indicates that incorporating sawdust and paper, among other

ingredients, is viable for making briquettes. The study reveals that the paper-

based briquettes exhibited the slowest burning rate, implying minimal fuel loss

during combustion. Additionally, the sawdust-based briquette proved to be the

quickest to ignite and performed well in the boiling water test. These findings

suggest that these materials are not only effective for briquettes but could

potentially enhance the performance of fire starters.

The Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) in Teresa, Rizal, recognized by the

Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for its Solid Waste
Management Program (SWMP), manufactures charcoal briquettes using

discarded papers as an alternative fuel. Additionally, the MRF creates organic

fertilizers by processing biodegradable waste through shredding, curing, and

mixing with bio-enzymes. Marlon F. Pielago, the Municipal Environment and

Natural Resources Officer (MENRO), oversees the composting area and

monitors the workers (Miguel, 2019).

This article gives substance to our study on creating fire starters from waste

paper by highlighting the municipal Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) in Teresa,

Rizal. The facility, acknowledged by the Department of Environment and Natural

Resources (DENR), exemplifies the official recognition of the value in

repurposing discarded papers into charcoal briquettes for use as alternative fuel.

The government's endorsement of such initiatives emphasizes the credibility and

viability of our exploration into the creation of fire starters from materials such as

waste paper.

This study addresses the challenges of agricultural waste's environmental

impact and explores the conversion of vegetable waste into charcoal briquettes.

Conducted at the Malaybalay City Public Market, the research compares

vegetable waste briquettes with commercial ones, focusing on moisture, volatile

matter, and ash content. Results reveal that vegetable waste briquettes, using
cassava starch as a binder, offer enhanced combustion efficiency,

reduced emissions, and prolonged burning. Notably, they outperform commercial

briquettes in terms of ash content and volatile matter. The study suggests that

vegetable waste briquettes are a promising and sustainable alternative to

traditional charcoal briquettes and recommends further investigation into different

binders and agricultural waste types for briquette production (Leones et al.,

2023).

This scholarly inquiry contributes substantially to our investigation of creating fire

starters from a vegetable, namely the kangkong, as it emphasizes the recognition

of other researchers in the value of repurposing agricultural waste, specifically

vegetable waste, into charcoal briquettes. The study, conducted at the

Malaybalay City Public Market, systematically compares the properties of

vegetable waste briquettes with commercial counterparts, emphasizing factors

such as moisture, volatile matter, and ash content. The conclusive findings,

highlighting the superior combustion efficiency, reduced emissions, and extended

burning duration of vegetable waste briquettes, validate the potential for their

adoption as a sustainable alternative to traditional charcoal briquettes.

 CHAPTER 3
METHODOLOGY OF THE RESEARCH

This chapter explains the data gathering procedures that are relevant to the

study. It describes who will be the respondents and the focus of the study. This

chapter also covers data gathering procedures and methodologies, as well as

research design and the settings of the study.

RESEARCH DESIGN

The researchers have meticulously crafted the research design and data

gathering methods, with a focus on utilizing an experimental research approach

that can be analyzed using statistical treatment with the use of a Likert scale. The

use of experimental research design is applicable to this study as it allows

identification of a cause-and-effect link between the variables. The adoption of a

developmental research approach is acceptable in this situation. The

developmental research approach was selected because it demonstrates how

the products created by the researchers differ from those that are already

available on the market.

 The Likert scale will be used to assess the numerical data obtained from

the questionnaires in order to offer insights into the degree of accessibility and

availability of the handy fire starter. This will make it possible to evaluate the use

of the fire starter based in Kangkong in a trustworthy and accurate manner.

DATA GATHERING AND PROCEDURES

From the chosen respondents in Barangay San Juan Floodway Sitio

Batasin, particularly the 50 respondents and 1 administrator, data will be

collected through a survey in the form of a questionnaire. The questionnaires will

apply the Likert scale approach, wherein the rating will range from strongly

disagree to strongly agree. The data from the one-person administrative

interview will also be collected through a survey in the form of a questionnaire

formulated by the researchers with the help of their technical adviser. The

research adviser will then review the draft questionnaire, as well as the content

and validation by a panel of experts. This process aims to review the

methodology and collect comments, suggestions, and corrections to improve the

study's content while ensuring the research instrument's validity and reliability. To

ensure accuracy, reliability, and appeal, adjustments will be made based on

feedback from the advisor, experts, and initial respondents.

 Participants will be chosen from the target population based on specific

criteria. The recruitment process will begin with obtaining permission from the

administration of the research location. All participants will provide consent,

indicating their willingness to participate in the study as well as their

comprehension of the ethical issues involved. The study's procedures and

potential outcomes will be thoroughly explained to participants. To protect the

participants, precautions will be taken, including informing them of any potential

risks associated with the study. Under the Data Privacy Act Law, also known as

Republic Act 10173, participants will be assured that their personal information

and identity will be kept confidential throughout the study.

SETTINGS OF THE STUDY

The Manggahan Floodway, an artificial waterway completed in 1986 in

Metro Manila, Philippines, aimed to alleviate flooding along the Pasig River by

diverting excess water from the Marikina River to Laguna de Bay, serving as a

temporary reservoir during the rainy season.

The study will concentrate on Barangay San Juan Floodway Taytay Sitio

Batasin, which has been observed for its spinach or kangkong fields, which can
then be sourced locally by the researchers. The study will be

conducted on the premises of both the ACLC College of Taytay and Sitio

Batasin, offering a comprehensive exploration of this topic within these specific

areas.
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Mrs. Riolie Villaver Pascual-Guba

Grammarian

Mr. Carlo Santianes

Technical Adviser

Ms. Ina Lavina B. Sikat

Research Adviser