Document Types
Paper Presentation
School Name
General Santos City SPED Integrated School
Track or Strand
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
Research Advisor (Last Name, First Name, Middle Initial)
Aspiras-Lorenzo, Kathlene Ann R.
Start Date
25-6-2025 10:30 AM
End Date
25-6-2025 12:00 PM
Zoom Link/ Room Assignment
https://zoom.us/j/95105828267?pwd=ovLmRN9qIWA4Uc2879ZugGKVR684na.1 Meeting ID: 951 0582 8267 Passcode: 513959
Abstract/Executive Summary
Plastic waste is a global problem affecting General Santos City (GenSan). Though brown paper bags are alternatives, they tear easily and may cause deforestation. South Cotabato, including GenSan, produces large amounts of tilapia. Their discarded scales contain collagen that can be used to create sustainable biopolymers. This study explores the potential of tilapia scales for creating bioplastics, focusing on tensile strength and biodegradability as eco-friendly alternatives to plastics.
For this study, one kilogram of raw tilapia fish scales was used. The scales were cleaned, oven-dried at 60°C for three hours, ground, and soaked in a 0.1N sodium hydroxide solution for 48 hours. After filtration, the softened scales were heated at 80°C for 10 minutes, cooled, and blended into a gelatinous substance. This was mixed with cornstarch, glycerin, vinegar, gelatin, and water in a 3:3:1:1:1:12 ratio (teaspoons), then heated at 80°C for 15 minutes until thickened. The mixture was poured onto an aluminum tray and oven-dried at 60°C for one hour, producing thirty bioplastic sheets that are 1mm thick.
Tensile strength testing on 15 samples showed an average strength of 11.76 MPa, withstanding up to 1.2 kilograms of load, suitable for lightweight packaging. Biodegradability was tested by burying 15 samples in natural soil for seven days. All fully decomposed, showing mold growth, discoloration, and disintegration.
These findings highlight fish-scale bioplastics as promising eco-friendly alternatives. Further research is recommended to improve properties and test performance in varied environments.
Keywords
bioplastic; tilapia fish scales; tensile strength; biodegradability; sustainable materials
Research Theme (for Paper Presentation and Poster Presentation submissions only)
Sustainability, Environment, and Energy (SEE)
Initial Consent for Publication
yes
Statement of Originality
yes
PlasTilapia: Potential of Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) Scales for Creating Bioplastics
Plastic waste is a global problem affecting General Santos City (GenSan). Though brown paper bags are alternatives, they tear easily and may cause deforestation. South Cotabato, including GenSan, produces large amounts of tilapia. Their discarded scales contain collagen that can be used to create sustainable biopolymers. This study explores the potential of tilapia scales for creating bioplastics, focusing on tensile strength and biodegradability as eco-friendly alternatives to plastics.
For this study, one kilogram of raw tilapia fish scales was used. The scales were cleaned, oven-dried at 60°C for three hours, ground, and soaked in a 0.1N sodium hydroxide solution for 48 hours. After filtration, the softened scales were heated at 80°C for 10 minutes, cooled, and blended into a gelatinous substance. This was mixed with cornstarch, glycerin, vinegar, gelatin, and water in a 3:3:1:1:1:12 ratio (teaspoons), then heated at 80°C for 15 minutes until thickened. The mixture was poured onto an aluminum tray and oven-dried at 60°C for one hour, producing thirty bioplastic sheets that are 1mm thick.
Tensile strength testing on 15 samples showed an average strength of 11.76 MPa, withstanding up to 1.2 kilograms of load, suitable for lightweight packaging. Biodegradability was tested by burying 15 samples in natural soil for seven days. All fully decomposed, showing mold growth, discoloration, and disintegration.
These findings highlight fish-scale bioplastics as promising eco-friendly alternatives. Further research is recommended to improve properties and test performance in varied environments.
https://animorepository.dlsu.edu.ph/conf_shsrescon/2025/paper_see/26
