CHAPTER I

INTRODUCTION

This chapter tackles the background of the study, statement of the

problem, objectives, hypothesis, and significance of the study, scope and
delimitation, and definition of terms.

1.1 Background of the Study

Consistently, Philippines encounters high temperature since it is

along the equator and even more greatly influenced by global warming. El Niño
or dry season can be overwhelming that makes numerous Filipinos encounter
heat-related concerns such as heat stroke, heat stress, skin rashes, extreme
dehydration and discomfort.

According to the study of Andamon et al (2016), most structures have at

least 20 degrees Celsius and have maximum range of 27.7 degrees Celsius
temperature. Although these data met the international standard for buildings here
in the Philippines, many workers are not satisfied. The study also shows that
people tend to work in the cooler environment for them to be more productive.

In accordance to these problems, the researchers wanted to provide a

material that will certainly ease the problems that Filipinos experience. A good
example of it is the cellulose. Cellulose is mainly composed of tissues or cell
dividers from plants and can be extracted from materials such as woods, papers,
etc. (Science Clarified). It can extract by means of hydrolysis, which pertains as
the process of using water to break down a molecule. (Phillips, 2018).

Furthermore, cellulose has low combustibility though it allows fire to

occur; it slows the spread of fire as indicated by Fire Fighter Nation. There are

1
certain compounds that would mix with cellulose to become fire retardant such as
ammonium sulfate, borate and sodium bicarbonate.

As stated by Paul Fissete (2005), ammonium sulfate and borate is

commonly used as insulation because of its low thermal conductivity and it
provides an R-value, which pertains to resistance value of approximately R-3.5
per inch of thickness. On the other hand, in the study of Muhammad Farooq
(2018), cellulose nanofiber (CNF) aerogels were set up by consolidating sodium
bicarbonate (SBC) which successfully enhanced the fire retardance without
compromising the thermal conductivity of aerogels, which was just 28mW m-1 k-
1 by freezing-drying procedure. The minimum burning velocity of flame retardant
aerogels was 0.20 cm s-1 at 40-wt percentage of SBC, which is altogether lower
with 5.84 cm s-1 of unadulterated CNF aerogels.

Cellulose is also used as home insulation since 1904 in the U.S because it
provides massive component of building envelope and utilizes to stabilize the
temperature of the building and compressive strength by 35% compared to basic
samples, higher stability of foamed concrete mix and decreased shrinkage
deformation if it is mix with cement. Cellulose insulation is far much better than
fiberglass. Cellulose filament is more firmly stuff, effectively choking wall
cavities of combustion air and keeping the spread of flame through confining
holes (Fissete, 2005).
Moreover, the researchers would then differentiate the effectiveness of
cellulose-SBC with a plain cement coating and another commonly used insulation
material, which is the mineral wool. In fact, both Cellulose and Mineral Wool
were used as an insulation material as well as being compared. They also have the
same R-value of 3.5 however, Mineral wool is naturally fire resistant and
noncombustible and it does not absorb moisture while cellulose absorbs moisture

that leads to losing its R-value. The model of cellulose-SBC that will be
compared to the Mineral Wool and plain cement compromises of 1.25kg (20%) of
cellulose and SBC while the other 80% (5kg) comprises of cement.

2
1.2 Objectives

Main:

 To identify the effectiveness of cellulose in reducing room temperature

when mixed with concrete.
 To make the cellulose flame retardant without compromising its thermal
insulation properties by incorporating sodium bicarbonate.

Specific:
 To compare the difference of room temperature between three models with
one that has plain concrete, one that has Mineral wool, and one that has
Cellulose-Sodium Bicarbonate mixture.
 To determine the degree of effectiveness of incorporation of sodium
bicarbonate to cellulose.

1.3 Hypothesis

This study is led by the following hypotheses;

(a) Alternative:

The researchers presume that the poor heat conductivity property of

cellulose will make the structure heat resistant and will have a lower temperature
than outside the model. It is also assumed that the new application of the cellulose
where it is directly mixed in the concrete and as a finishing coating of the
structure will function well

Null:

Cellulose will not reduce the temperature inside the models

(b) Alternative:

3
 The incorporation of sodium bicarbonate is expected to make the structure
fire retardant.

Null:

Sodium bicarbonate will show no effect on its fire resistance.

1.4 Conceptual Framework

Purchasing of cellulose, SBC and

commercialized product
(Mineral Wool)

Construction of Models
with Different Ratio

Setting up Wall Thermometers inside

and outside of the Models

Conduction of Experiment

Analysis of Data

4
Recording data using
statistical graphs
1.5 Significance of the Study

The findings of this study will surely help to reduce the usage of
energy as well as to produce a cheaper thermal insulation material. The
proposed thermal insulation will also help workers to be more productive
and to minimize stress to people brought by heat in their workplace.
Furthermore, the fact that cellulose’s ability for greater air leakage
resistance is very essential, it insulates warm air better than any other
thermal insulation such as fiberglass.

1.6 Scope and Delimitation

This research study focused on determining the reduced temperature

inside the model and to render fire resistance to the model with the cement and
cellulose-sodium bicarbonate mixture.

The research samples consist three models that was built and was tested
that identified the temperature inside. This research measured the variable time
interval of 20 minutes within three hours and temperature inside the models.
Thermometers were used to measure the temperature in Celsius. The researchers
used a Bunsen burner to examine the effectiveness of sodium bicarbonate. The
Researchers compared the temperature of the house models with the concrete and
cellulose-sodium bicarbonate mixture with Mineral wool insulation. The
experimentation was built and conducted at the College of Engineering in the
University of the East Manila.

5
1.7 Definition of Terms

Cellulose is an insoluble substance that is the main constituent of plant cell walls
and of vegetable fibers such as cotton. It is a polysaccharide consisting of chains
of glucose monomers.

Hydrolysis is the chemical breakdown of a compound due to reaction with water.

Insulation is a material or substance that is used to stop heat, electricity, or sound

from going into or out of something.

Fire-Retardant is the capability of a material to resist fire.

R-value the capacity of an insulating material to resist heat flow.

Sodium-bicarbonate a soluble white powder used in fire extinguishers and

effervescent drinks and as a leavening agent in baking.

Thermal resistance is a heat property and a measurement of a temperature

difference by which an object or material resists a heat flow.

Thermometer is an instrument for measuring and indicating temperature,

typically one consisting of a narrow, hermetically sealed glass tube marked with
graduations and having at one end a bulb containing mercury or alcohol that
expands and contracts in the tube with heating and cooling.

6
 CHAPTER II

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

2.1 Effects of Heat to Humans

According to Seposo, et al. (2017), Heat waves, despite of its risk on

increasing death, has only been studied few times in developing countries. The
study has observed that heat waves compared to main temperature are less
influential in putting populations at risk. However, when observed individually
gives account to more risks. It has been stated in the study that 70,000 more than
the average deaths were recorded in Europe, where heat waves were partially
involved. Philippines’ response to these phenomena, according to this paper, still
has not been fully integrated.

The effects of heat waves were named into two, namely, the “main effects”
which is the effect of daily temperature alone and the “added effects” are because
of the continuation of heat in consecutive days. Sites in Manila, Quezon, Cebu
and Davao were studied and used by the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and
Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) for the Observatory’s
Metrological Division. It now identifies the four types of season in the
Philippines.

It was then stated in the paper that main temperature has higher effects to
mortality than heat waves, but even though effects of the HW were statistically
insignificant, relevant studies to provide strategies in preventing its effects can
help people to take care of themselves. Moreover, dehydration, heat stress, and
heightened heat exposure are some of the effects that people of different ages
experience due to sudden extreme HW and continuous intensity of the main heat.

2.2 Thermal Comfort inside Buildings

7
 Based on the data gathered in the research, most buildings have a
minimum of 20 degrees Celsius to maximum of 27.7 degrees Celsius temperature
range of air. It has an average of 23.7 degrees Celsius. Many buildings were found
in a cooler s (a) Alternative:ide of the given standards in the international
comfort for both winter and summer which is 20 degrees Celsius to 26 degrees
Celsius. Although this result shows that the Philippines had met the standard
comfort inside the buildings, many workers are not satisfied. The result shows
contradiction to the thermal comfort theory. Some workers were not comfortable
in 24 degrees Celsius to 24.5 degrees Celsius.

The psycho-social effects of the uncomfortableness among the workers are

also studied: it is said to be that most of the people want a cooler environment for
it helps to bring out the eagerness of the individuals to work. Thus, these
preferences demand an extensive use of the cooling technology. The companies
strive to meet the fondness of the workers by utilizing more air conditioning that
requires a higher consumption of energy.

Overall, the preferred temperature by the workers has a smaller range

which is 21.5 degrees Celsius to 24.5 degrees Celsius with 80% acceptability than
the standard which is 23 to 26 degrees Celsius.

In conclusion, buildings in the Philippines were able to provide thermal

comfort based on the international standard but less for the preference of the
workers. The lesser use of cooling technology is recommended by this study.
(Andamon, et al., 2016)

2.3 Cellulose R-value and Its effectiveness

berglass is widely used for insulation, 90% of the homeowners preferred

Fiberglass. Although, new products nowadays are arousing and are proven better
and more environmentally friendly than fiber glass such as cellulose, mineral
wool, spray foam and many other insulation products. The R-value is a standard

8
measurement to determine the level of resistance of heat flow in insulation. It
calculates the insulation conductive resistance, which is the ability of a material to
resist the flow of heat. Much insulation lost their conductive resistance through
conduction, but not cellulose.
Cellulose stand above them not only because of it is organic but because of its
effectiveness. Cellulose provides an R-value of 3.5 per inch of thickness better
than other insulations, although many factors affect the R-value of cellulose such
as air leakage, gaps, and the application itself. Higher R-value of cellulose than
fiberglass is not as important it seems, because there is just slightly difference
between them, however, the fact that cellulose ability for greater air leakage
resistance is very essential. Densely packed cellulose blocks air better than
fiberglass and much other insulation. In order to achieve the cellulose
effectiveness, the consumer must choose a reliable and expert contractor because
many factors can lessen its effectiveness. (Fisette, 2005)

2.4 Flame Retardant Cellulose for Insulation

There is a search for the most efficient and harmless insulating material
for buildings. Market – available materials were mainly organonitrogen,
chemically modified organophosphorus, fossil oil-based, and halogenated organic
compounds that have harmful effects to the environment and for humans. In spite
of the fact that they are all efficient and highly retardant to fire, their application is
restricted.

There is a movement in finding an eco-friendly material for insulation that

will use green chemistry principles. Cellulose attracts the interest of many
researchers. It is said to be that cellulose has the properties of an insulation
materials such as low thermal conductivity, high strength and elastic modulus,
biocompatibility, sustainability, and low thermal expansion but flammability of
the cellulose restricts its application. Many researchers and scientists had found a
solution to this problem, but many failed to maintain the low conductivity to heat
of the cellulose.

9
 In this study, sodium bicarbonate (SBC) is incorporated to cellulose
aerogels to reduce the flammability of the cellulose. SBC and cellulose are mixed
with 1:4 ratio. The fire retardant cellulose (SBC-CNF) is tested flammability test.
The results were: the burning velocity of the SBC-CNF was 0.20 cm s–1 at 40 wt
% of SBC and the burning velocity of pure CNF aerogels is 5.84 cm s–1.
Although 40% of SBC shows the lowest burning velocity, it is recommended to
add only 20% of SBC. It has been concluded that by using sodium bicarbonate,
cellulose nanofiber will become fire-retardant without lessening its thermal
conductivity. (Farooq, et al., 2018)

2.5 Vertical Bunsen burner Test

A Bunsen burner will be used to test the flammability of the material. In

the test, the blue flame should be at 1 ½ inch in height. Starting the test, the
burner will be placed 3 inches from the specimen. Then the material will be then
placed into the flame ¾ inch from the top of the burner. The procedure should be
in an enclosed environment. This could take either 12 or 60 seconds and then after
appropriate amount of time specimen will be moved away by 3 inches back of
turning of the gas. Timer will start exactly when the material is brought to the
flame. The time of fire and burn length will be recorded. (FAA Fire Safety, 2018)

2.6 Cellulose in Cement

The paper presents results of experimental research on the influence of

cellulose fibers on structure and properties of fiber reinforced foam concrete by
using methods of chemical analysis and scanning electron microscopy. One of the
most likely means of foamed concrete quality improvement is micro-
reinforcement by adding synthetic and mineral fibers to the base mix. The
research determines oddities of new formations appearance and densification of
binder hydration products in the contact zone between fiber and cement matrix,
which boost mechanical strength of fiber reinforced foam concrete. First to
investigate peculiarities of using recycled cellulose fiber extracted from waste
paper for obtaining fiber reinforced foam concrete. Physio-mechanical properties

10
of fiber reinforced foam concrete were defined depending on the amount of
recycled cellulose fiber added to the base mix.

It was discovered that the use of recycled cellulose fibers allows obtaining
structural thermal insulating fiber reinforced foam concretes of non-autoclaved
hardening of brand D600 with regard to mean density with the following
improved properties: compressive strength increased by 35% compared to basic
samples, higher stability of foamed concrete mix and decreased shrinkage
deformation.

The use of structural and thermal insulating wall materials allows

producing lightweight envelope structures that meet modern requirements to
thermal protection, environmental and fire safety. Among such materials are
cellular concretes, particularly foamed concretes based on binders of hydraulic
hardening. In spite of obvious advantages cellular concretes, particularly foamed
concrete, has a number of disadvantages which can be observed at all stages of
production process. Here belong difficulties of producing uniform foam, foamed
concrete structure management, high values of shrinkage deformations and
relatively low strength characteristics. Scattered reinforcement with fibers is one
of the promising methods to improve technological, construction and operational
characteristics of cellular concretes. The use of this technology allows
transmitting ductile force from composite matrix to fiber. This force transmission
effect considerably reduces crack formation and opening and increases strength
and crack resistance of fiber reinforced foam concrete. (Federov, V. &Mestnikov,
A., 2018)

2.7 Home Insulation using Cellulose

In the article, “Enhanced Cellulose Insulation Thermal Mass in

Lightweight Natural “The Cellulose was used in the US from as early as 1904.
The new generation of cellulose insulation performs as a massive component of a
building envelope and utilizes to stabilize the temperature of the building. The
tests were ensuring that a new material will not cause fire problems. The most

11
common material for the cellulose insulation is recycled newsprint. The Oak
Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) established a research team for the
development of a new type of cellulose fiber insulation, during 2004. Engaging
cellulose as insulation was first privy in England in 1893. It was used in the US
from as early as 1904. Cellulose insulation was used extensively in electrically-
heated homes during the 1950s. It is an established, time –proven building
insulation material. Since it is based on recycled paper, it is well-recognized as an
energy-efficient, green insulating product .Fiberglass, rock wool, and plastic
insulation have from 50 to over 200 times more embodied energy than cellulose.

In North America, cellulose insulation has about 10 to 15% of the

residential market. In some US regions, however, the use of cellulose insulation is
the material of choice for residential attics. Most Current studies (Feustel – 1995,
Tomlinson – 1992, Kosny – 2001) demonstrated that application of thermal mass
in well insulated buildings may results heating and cooling energy savings in US
residential buildings of up 25%. Considering that cellulose insulation is installed
in about 10% of US homes, the potential for energy savings is between 0.2 and
0.5 quad/year, including an additional 10% of US residential buildings which can
be retrofitted using PCM- enhanced cellulose insulation. (Kosny, et al., 2006)

2.8 Cellulose Application to Buildings

One of the most affecting factors in the consumption of the energy of the
building is its envelope of thermal conductivity. It affects the environmental
comfortability inside the building. The building envelope can be enhanced
through the dividers of inside and outside spaces such as building’s roof, walls,
and doors. But about 10% of the world’s energy was consumed by the
heating/cooling mends of the infrastructures.

In this matter, many studies were conducted to develop and innovate for
the reduction of the consumption of the energy inside the buildings. Many also
were recommended such as the application of the insulation in the tropical region
which results in the decrease of heat flow for about 20%-30%.Athough many are

12
suggested, it remains a problem due to its cost. Cellulose is very abundant around
the world because it can be found by plants, animals, and microorganisms. It
becomes a possible solution for the insulation of many buildings because it is
biological based and it is cost effective.

In the contribution of the gaseous phase utilizing the Knudsen effect, the
decrease in the thermal conductivity of buildings was attained. Nonetheless, many
problems were associated in the usage of the cellulose in thermal insulation such
as laborious and long-time production, flammability, moisture sensitivity, and
many more. Despite of that, cellulose nowadays is widely used and is still studied
to further enhance its used. (Illera, et al., 2018)

2.9 Cellulose Insulation vs. Mineral Wool

Cellulose Insulation and Mineral wool provide good insulation, but they
differ differences regarding their effectiveness, safety, performance, productivity,
sustainability, and versatility. Cellulose is 80% recycled paper therefore, it is
flammable. Chemicals such as sodium bicarbonate are added to cellulose to make
it flame-retardant while Mineral wool is naturally fire resistant and
noncombustible. Because of the chemical fire retardants added to cellulose, it
becomes corrosive unlike mineral wool. Several tests are conducted to ensure that
Mineral wool is safe while cellulose health impacts remains unclear. They are also
different in their performance despite their small difference in R-value. Mineral
wool does not absorb moisture and retain its moisture. On the other hand,
cellulose absorbs moisture that leads to losing its R-value. Mineral wool and
Cellulose insulation require professional insulation to better assure its quality.
Cellulose is more expensive than Mineral wool because there is rental of
equipment to apply the insulation. Mineral Wool has almost the same thermal
conductivity that is why they are being compared. But despite this fact, Mineral
Wool becomes better because of its sustainability and lower

13
price than Cellulose Insulation. (Insulation Institution, 2015)

CHAPTER III

METHODOLOGY

3.1 Materials

 1 kg of Cellulose
 250 g of Sodium-bicarbonate
 6 ft. Mineral wool
 2 Wall Thermometers
 2 sacks of Cement
 4 sacks of Sand
 30 pcs. of Hollow blocks
 2 pcs. of 2 in x 2 in x 8 ft. wood
 26 ft. by 8 ft. Galvanized sheet

3.2 Procedure

3.2.1 Purchase of Needed

The models needed the traditional materials used

for constructing infrastructures. These includes cement,
gravel, sand, hallow blocks, wood, galvanized iron sheets
and other basic materials for construction. 1 kg of cellulose
powder, 250 g of sodium bicarbonate, and commercialized
mineral wool are the essentials for the experimentation to
proceed.

14
3.2.2 Construction of Models

To reveal the effects of cellulose and sodium

bicarbonate on the temperature and fire retardance of
infrastructures, three models of 14" x 14" x 14" (l x w x h)
were constructed for a test. The first model having plain
cement coating that is used in conventional houses. The
second model subjected with 1 kg of cellulose and 250 g of
sodium bicarbonate mixture as its coating and also on its
ceiling. Lastly, the third model incorporated with mineral
wool padded on its walls and ceiling. Roofs were also set
up for each model made from wood and galvanized sheets.

3.2.3 Temperature Measurement

Wall thermometers were used to measure the

temperature inside and outside of each model. The
monitoring started at 10:10 in the morning and ended at
1:14 in the afternoon. For every 20 minutes, temperature of
the models inside and outside was measured
simultaneously. Wall thermometers were given time to
adjust and were recorded after 2 minutes. Ten recorded
measurements were gathered from the whole duration of
the experimentation.

3.2.4 Vertical Bunsen Burning Test

After the monitoring of temperature, the models were

subjected to Vertical Bunsen Burning Test. Each model was
tested three times summing up to obtain nine records.
Bunsen burner is ignited and set to have 1.38 inches of

15
 flame and put 3 inches away from the model and was
brought near to the model. After 60 seconds the fire was
taken away or was put out and the burn length was
measured.

3.3 Schematic Diagram

Purchasing of Cellulose
powder, SBC and
commercialised product
(Mineral Wool)

Incorporation of Sodium Bicarbonate

to cellulose

Construction of Models

Model 1: Model 2:
Model 3:
Concrete with Plain Concrete with Cellulose and
Concrete with Mineral Wool
Cement Coating SBC Coating of 80:20 ratio

16
 Temperature measurement using Wall
Thermometers for 3 hours with 20
minutes interval

Conduction of Bunsen Burner

Test

Analysis of Data

Recording using statistical graphs

3.4 Statistical Tool

The three sets of data from the thermal insulation experiment and three
sets of data from Bunsen burning test were treated with the one way analysis of
variance. This treatment of data showed the significant difference between the
sets of values gathered from the experimentation.
The results of the analysis of the temperatures of the models, which were
determined by getting the difference of the temperatures inside and outside the
model, convey that there were significant difference between the three sets of data
with the test alpha 0.05 and assumption alpha of 0.20.
Another test, the Tukey-Kramer Multiple Comparison Test was used to see
which sets of data had the most difference among the others. Letting the
researchers know which had the most significantly different result from the three
models.
Lastly, Tukey-Kramer’s All Pairs Simultaneous Confidence Intervals of
Mean Difference and P-Value determined which pair had the most difference with
each other. Knowing which pair had the least difference, it will determine which
could be closely compared.

17
 CHAPTER IV

PRESENTATION AND INTERPRETATION OF DATA

4.1 Presentation of Data

THERMAL INSULATION
TABLE 1

Without Cellulose With Mineral Wool With Cellulose and SBC

Trials Time Temp. Temp Time Temp. Temp Time Temp. Temp
(In) (Out) (In) (Out) (In) (Out)
1 10:10 30.0 32.0 10:12 29.0 33.0 10:14 29.0 34.2
2 10:30 30.0 32.6 10:32 29.0 32.8 10:34 29.9 32.6
3 10:50 29.6 31.9 10:52 28.9 33.3 10:54 28.8 33.2
4 11:10 29.0 32.3 11:12 28.9 31.5 11:14 28.7 33.5
5 11:30 29.6 31.6 11:32 29.6 34.2 11:34 29.5 34.1
6 11:50 29.8 31.4 11:52 29.7 34.5 11:54 29.7 34.5
7 12:10 30.5 32.1 12:12 30.1 34.4 12:14 30.2 36.6
8 12:30 30.3 32.3 12:32 30.1 37.5 12:34 29.6 34.8
9 12:50 30.2 33.3 12:52 29.6 35.1 12:54 29.8 37.5
10 1:10 31.3 35.2 1:12 34.4 47.3 1:14 33.4 44.2

TABLE 2

TEMPERATURE DIFFERENCE (OUTSIDE-INSIDE)

Trials Without Cellulose With Mineral Wool With Cellulose and
SBC
1 2 4 5.2

18
 2 2.6 3.8 2.7
3 2.3 4.4 4.4
4 3.3 2.6 4.8
5 2 4.6 4.6
6 1.6 4.8 4.8
7 1.6 4.3 6.4
8 2 7.4 5.2
9 3.1 5.5 9.7
10 9.8 12.9 10.8

The temperature was obtained every 20 minutes. The researchers start at

10:10 in the morning and end at 1:10 in the afternoon, thus obtaining ten outside
and inside temperatures each model. The temperatures vary by time in each
model. The temperatures obtained ranges from 28.8 degree Celsius to 47.3 degree
Celsius.

The researchers subtracted the outside temperature and inside temperature

to get the temperature difference in each trial and model. The temperature
difference ranges from 1.6 – 12.9.

One-way Analysis of Variance Report was used to determine if the three

models have significant differences. With test alpha 0.05, assumption alpha 0.20
and hypotheses:
* H0: μ1 = μ2 = μ3
* H1: The means are not all equal.
The p-value obtained from one-way ANOVA is 0.00428 which is less than the test
alpha 0.05; therefore, the researchers reject the null hypothesis.

Using the same analysis, the researchers test the data distribution of the
temperature difference of each model and their medians. Both test results in
rejecting the null hypothesis stating Data Distribution and Medians of the models
are the same with a P-value of 0.00035 and 0.00019 respectively both are less
than the assumption alpha 0.20.

The researchers found out that the model without cellulose has a
significant difference in both models that have insulation using the Tukey –

19
Kramer Multiple Comparison Test. As in Tukey –Kramer Multiple Comparison
Test Table, the variable without cellulose is different from the group with mineral
wool and the group with cellulose-SBC.

The researchers used the Tukey-Kramer’s All Pairs Simultaneous

Confidence Intervals of Mean Difference and P-Value to compare all pair’s
combination in the variables. Without cellulose group has significant mean
difference in both with mineral wool and with cellulose-SBC with p-values less
than the test alpha 0.05; 0.01771 and 0.00674 respectively. On the other hand,
with mineral wool and with cellulose-SBC has no significant difference to each
other with a p-value 0.90528 greater than the test alpha 0.05.

FIRE RETARDANCY

TABLE 3

FIRE RETARDANCY TEST RESULTS

WITHOUT CELLULOSE WITH MINERAL WOOL WITH CELLULOSE AND SBC

Trial Duration Burn Trial Duration Burn Trial Duration Burn

Length Length Length
1 6.22 in 1 3.62 in 1 5.15 in
2 1 min 5.35 in 2 2 min 3.86 in 2 1 min 4.49 in
3 4.21 in 3 3.62 in 3 3.35 in

The fire retardancy of the models was tested using a Bunsen burner. The
researchers measured the length of the visible burn inside the model. Each model
was tested thrice thus obtaining nine lengths in all three in each model. The range
of the lengths is from 3.35 inches – 6.22 inches.

One-way analysis of variance was also used to find the significant

difference of each model on one another. The same with the thermal insulation,
0.05 test alpha was used and 0.20 assumption alpha. With the hypotheses:

* H0: μ1 = μ2 = μ3

20
 * H1: The means are not all equal.

The researchers accepted the null hypothesis because the p-value obtained
in the analysis was 0.12670 greater than the test alpha 0.05. In support with this,
researchers cannot reject normality and equal variances in the data because their
p-values were less than the assumption value 0.20; meaning the three models does
not have significant difference to one another.

In Tukey –Kramer Multiple Comparison Test, there were no different

groups in terms of their mean thus, rejecting the alternative hypothesis.

Using the Tukey-Kramer’s All Pairs Simultaneous Confidence Intervals of

Mean Difference and P-Value, the researchers compared the possible pairs in the
analysis. The group with mineral wool and with cellulose – SBC has the largest p-
value which is 0.61683 accepting the null hypothesis. While the groups that has
the lowest p-value is with mineral wool and without cellulose with a p-value
0.11339. Overall, the researchers cannot assume significant difference among the
burn length of the models.

4.2 Interpretation of Data

Thermal Insulation of the Three Models

The data gathered from the experiment shows a wide range. The
temperatures range from 28.8 degrees Celsius to 47.3 degrees Celsius. It causes a
greater variance and abnormality of the data. The wide range of the data is due to
the change of sunrays direction in the area of experiment. There are times when
sun hits the models and there are times that it does not.

The temperature difference has also a wide range. Aside from the extreme
values from the temperatures obtained from the experiment, the digital
thermometer also affects the difference in temperature inside and outside. The
thermometer rapidly adjusts when the sun hits the model especially outside the

21
model. And also, the insulations are more effective in higher temperature hence
there is a higher difference in times where the temperature outside is high.

Based on the analysis, the p-value is less than the test alpha, thus rejecting
the null hypothesis and accepting the alternative hypothesis which states that the
means of the temperature difference of the three models are not equal. It means,
there are significant dissimilarities in the temperature difference of the three
models. It implies that the control variable, which is the mineral wool, is effective
in insulation same as with the proposed insulation by the researchers, which is the
cellulose infused with cement. They both performed low thermal conductivity that
allow them to have a lower temperature inside. It is proven that the three models
performed different heat resistance especially comparing the model without
insulation to the two models with insulation. The researchers reject the possibility
that all of the models in respect to the mean of their temperature difference are all
the same, implying the ineffectiveness of the two insulations.

By Tukey –Kramer Multiple Comparison Test, it was shown that the

model without cellulose is significantly different from the other two models.
Meaning it has a much lower mean compared to the other models and implying
that the two models are effective for heat insulation. It was also supported by the
Tukey-Kramer’s All Pairs Simultaneous Confidence Intervals of Mean Difference
and P-Value where the p-value of the mean difference of the model without
cellulose with the model with mineral wool and model with cellulose-SBC are
0.01771 and 0.00674 respectively, lesser than the test alpha 0.05. This implies that
the model without insulation is very much different in terms of the temperature
inside than the two models with insulation. It gives a possibility to the potency of
the proposed insulation which is with cellulose-SBC. On the other hand, the
comparison between the commercially available product with the proposed
insulation has a negative result. With a p-value of 0.90528, the researchers accept
the null hypothesis which states there is no significant difference on their mean. It
also entails the fact that the two insulations are the same with their mean
difference proving that the proposed cellulose is not better regarding on the

22
thermal insulation of the commercially available product. But it also opened a
way to compare the similarities of the two insulations, in fact Cellulose-SBC
model got 5.86 mean and Mineral wool model got 5.43 mean showing a lower
mean than the proposed insulation. The cellulose-SBC infused with cement is
comparable to the commercially available product insulation like Mineral Wool.
The researcher conclude that Cellulose-SBC infused cement is an effective
insulation just like the other insulation and the conventional cellulose insulation
which are loose-fill and blown in. Also, the mixture of the Cellulose-SBC
powders to the concrete materials such as cement, sand, water, and hollow blocks
does not significantly reduce its thermal capacity for insulation.

Fire Retardancy of Three Models

Since the result of the data statistics reject the alternative hypothesis, this
shows that the cellulose-SBC does not show better fire retardancy than that of the
plain cement mixture and the commercially available mineral wool. But the
results show that there is no significant difference between the means of three
models which means that there is no significant evidence to assume which has a
better fire retardancy.

Mineral wool, which is a natural fire retardant or noncombustible,

compared by pair with the model with cellulose-SBC had the highest p-value
indicating that the cellulose- SBC had the least difference with the mineral wool
making it comparable for fire retardancy more than the cellulose alone which is
naturally flammable.

Considering that cellulose is actually flammable this result shows the

effectivity of sodium bicarbonate to make it fire retardant. The model with
cellulose-SBC showed no significant difference compared to mineral wool and
plain cement mixture.

23
 The researchers were not able to conduct the burning test in an isolated
room, letting air to intervene with the conduction of fire. Each model was burnt
one at a time having different wind conditions that could have affected the effect
of the fire on the models.

The researchers did not conduct the Freezing-drying procedure since the
purchased Cellulose and the Sodium Bicarbonate were in powder form hence
directly mixing the it together.

CHAPTER V

SUMMARY OF THE FINDINGS, CONCLUSION, AND

RECOMMENDATION

5.1 Summary of the Findings

The results obtained from the thermal insulation testing of the three
models show a wide range due to the change of sun rays direction in the area of
experiment, thus provides a wide range in the temperature difference. Form on the
analysis, the p-value is less than the test alpha hence rejecting the null hypothesis
and accepting the alternative hypothesis that states the means of the temperature
difference of the three models are not equal. It signifies that the control variable
and the proposed insulation by the researchers are effective insulation.

It was shown by the Tukey-Kramer Multiple Comparison Test that the

model without insulation has a much lower mean compared to the two models
with insulation, implying that the two models are effective heat insulators. This
was reinforced by the Tukey-Kramer All Pairs Simultaneous Confidence Intervals
of Man Difference and P-Value that the p-value of the mean difference of the
model without insulation with the model with mineral wool and the model with
cellulose-SBC, which are 0.01771 and 0,00674 respectively are lesser than the

24
test alpha 0.05, is significantly different in terms of the temperature inside. It
gives a possibility to the potency of the proposed insulation.

The comparison between the commercially available product with the

proposed insulation obtained a p-value of 0.90528, the researchers accepted the
null hypothesis which states there is no significant difference on their mean. It
also points out that the two insulations are alike on their mean difference
validating that the proposed insulation does not provide a better thermal insulation
regarding on the capability of the Mineral wool. However, it paved a way to
compare the comparability of the two insulations. Cellulose-SBC model obtained
5.86 mean and Mineral wool model obtained 5.43 mean exhibit a lower mean
than the proposed insulation.

The results obtained from the fire retardancy testing of the three models
show that the fire retardancy capability of the Cellulose-SBC infused with cement
mixture is comparable to that of the Plain cement mixture and the Mineral wool.
Although, the results exhibit no significant difference between the means of the
models, which denotes no significant evidence conclude which has a better fire
retardancy.

Mineral wool, a naturally fire retardant or noncombustible, was compared

with the Cellulose-SBC model and it obtained the highest p-value indicating that
the Cellulose-SBC obtained the least difference with the Mineral wool.
Considering that cellulose is flammable, this exhibits the capability of sodium
bicarbonate to render fire retardancy. The Cellulose-SBC model showed no
significant difference compared to the Mineral wool and the Plain cement
mixture.

5.2 Conclusion

After the experimentation, the researchers therefore conclude that the

proposed thermal insulation of cellulose-SBC infused with cement is effective and
comparable to commercialized product like Mineral Wool. However, the

25
effectiveness of the proposed insulation is not better than the Mineral Wool as
well as the capability of cellulose-SBC on fire retardancy.

5.3 Recommendation

Cellulose insulation for houses has already been in business industry for a
long time. Its effectiveness for thermal insulation is proven by science and
companies that produce different products out of this material and this study
further strengthened that fact. This study suggested another way of applying
cellulose for thermal insulation and attempted to make it fire retardant with the
process of mixing sodium-bicarbonate to cement coating. Thereby, further
researches must be conducted regarding the ratio between the cellulose-SBC and
cement to achieve its fullest potential without sacrificing much time or money.
Several trials in models with different ratios should be conducted and compared to
each other. An enclosed area for the vertical flame test must also be present upon
the conduction of the experiment to obtain more accurate data.

26
 CHAPTER VI
REFERENCES

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Ch/Cellulose.html

Farooq, M., Sipponen, M. H., Seppälä, A., & Österberg, M. (2018). Eco-friendly
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Fedorov, V., & Mestnikov, A. (2018, January 08). Influence of cellulose fibers on
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Fissete, P. (2005). Cellulose Insulation-A Smart Choice. Retrieved from
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Insulation Institution.org. (2015). Fiber Glass & Mineral Wool vs. Cellulose
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Kosny, J., Yarbrough, D. W., Wilkes, K. E., Leuthold, D., & Syed, A. (2006).
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Phillips, T. (n.d.). What You Need to Know About Hydrolysis. Retrieved from
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Takagi, H., Nakagaito, A. N., & Bistamam, M. S. (2013). Extraction of cellulose

nanofiber from waste papers and application to reinforcement in

28
 biodegradable composites [Abstract]. Journal of Reinforced Plastics
and Composites, 32(20), 1542-1546. doi:10.1177/0731684413494109

CHAPTER VII
APPENDICES
Thermal Insulation

29
 The means of the model with no thermal insulation and the model with
mineral wool insulation have a significant difference.The means of the model
with mineral wool insulation and the model with cellulose and sodium-
bicarbonate insulation does not have a significant difference.

Fire Retardancy

30
The means of the models are not equal.

31