Chapter I

INTRODUCTION

Background of the study

With a growing global focus on sustainable energy sources, the demand for
renewable and eco-friendly fuels is becoming critical. The International Energy Agency
(IEA) reported a 4.6% increase in global energy demand in 2021, a trend likely to
persist as populations and economies expand. Traditional fuels, such as kerosene, coal,
and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), are not only non-renewable but also major
contributors to air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. In this context, the
development of alternative fuels like gel fuels presents a viable solution to reduce
reliance on conventional energy sources. Gel fuel, commonly utilized for heating,
cooking, and lighting, is derived from renewable materials, making it a more
environmentally friendly option. Ethanol, sourced from sugarcane and other plant
materials, is particularly noted for its combustibility and clean-burning properties. The
Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) indicates that global ethanol production has
increased by 5% over the past decade, largely fueled by its applications as a biofuel.
This research explores the potential of seashells, cane vinegar, coconut vinegar, and
ethanol as effective gel fuels, contributing to a sustainable energy future.

International studies have highlighted the environmental benefits of biofuels over

traditional energy sources. A study by Atiwesh et al. (2021) demonstrated that plant-
based gel fuels could reduce carbon emissions by up to 40% compared to traditional
kerosene. This showcases the potential of bio-based gel fuels in mitigating air pollution
and contributing to cleaner energy sources. Furthermore, with ethanol production
showing steady growth globally, it becomes a critical component in alternative energy
research (FAO, 2022).

The Philippines is rich in agricultural resources, particularly sugarcane, which

serves as the source of ethanol, cane vinegar, and coconut vinegar—organic materials
that can stabilize gel fuel. Additionally, the country produces a substantial number of

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seashells, primarily composed of 95% calcium carbonate, which can enhance gel fuel’s
stability and burn time. Utilizing these locally sourced materials supports the agricultural
sector and promotes energy self-sufficiency. With 57% of Filipino households relying on
LPG for cooking amid rising energy costs (Philippine Statistics Authority, PSA, 2022),
developing a renewable and cost-effective alternative like gel fuel could significantly
lower household energy expenses.

Despite increasing global and local interest in biofuels, there is limited research
on the combination of seashells, cane vinegar, coconut vinegar, and ethanol for gel fuel
production. Most studies focus on these components individually, highlighting a gap in
the literature, especially within the Philippine context. The purpose of this study is to
develop a sustainable gel fuel using seashells, cane vinegar, and ethanol, and to
evaluate its potential as an alternative energy source for Filipino households. By
addressing the research gap, this study aims to contribute to both global and local
discussions on renewable energy by offering a cost-effective and environmentally
friendly solution.

Statement of the problem

This study primarily aims to develop the feasibility and effectiveness of producing a
sustainable gel fuel using seashells, cane vinegar, coconut vinegar and ethanol.

Specifically, this study seeks to answer the following specific questions:

1. What ratio of seashells, cane vinegar, and ethanol is efficient as gel fuel?
1.1 70ml ethanol; 5ml cane vinegar; 15g seashells
1.2 70ml ethanol; 10ml cane vinegar; 5g seashells
1.3 70ml ethanol; 15ml cane vinegar; 10g seashells
2. What ratio of seashells, coconut vinegar, and ethanol is efficient as gel fuel?
2.1 70ml ethanol; 15ml coconut vinegar; 5g seashells
2.2 70ml ethanol; 10ml coconut vinegar; 15g seashells
2.3 70ml ethanol; 5ml coconut vinegar; 10g seashells

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 3. Is there significant difference that a gel fuel made from seashells, cane vinegar,
and ethanol burns more efficiently than traditional gel fuels in terms of:
3.1 Burn duration;
3.2 Heat output

Hypotheses

H0: There is no significant difference that the ratio of seashells, cane vinegar, and
ethanol will affect the overall performance of the gel fuel in terms of different
concentrations.

H1: There is a significant difference that the ratio of seashells, cane vinegar, and ethanol
will affect the overall performance of the gel fuel in terms of different concentrations.

H0: There is no significant difference that a gel fuel made from seashells, cane vinegar,
and ethanol burns more efficiently than traditional gel fuels in terms of burn duration and
heat output.

H1: There is a significant difference that a gel fuel made from seashells, cane vinegar,
and ethanol burns more efficiently than traditional gel fuels in terms of burn duration and
heat output.

Scope and Delimitations

This study is quantitative research, it focuses on the development and evaluation

of gel fuel made from seashells, cane vinegar, coconut vinegar, and ethanol as an
alternative energy source in Tupi, South Cotabato. The research employs a mixed-
methods approach, combining both experimental and qualitative research to assess the
gel fuel's feasibility, burn efficiency, environmental impact, and overall sustainability.
The study will include local households in Tupi that use fuel for cooking and heating,
along with technical experts who will assist in testing and evaluating the gel fuel's
performance compared to traditional commercial fuels.

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 The study is delimited to the use of seashells, cane vinegar, and ethanol as the
primary ingredients and will not explore other fuel alternatives or regions beyond Tupi,
South Cotabato. It will specifically focus on the burn duration, heat output, and
combustion efficiency of the gel fuel. Broader economic and long-term environmental
impacts will not be considered, and the study will not include a comprehensive cost-
benefit analysis. By maintaining this focused scope, the research aims to provide a
detailed evaluation of the gel fuel's performance within the specified context.

Significance of the Study

This study Seashells, Cane Vinegar, Coconut Vinegar, and Ethanol as Gel Fuel is
significant to the following:

Households and Individuals. Gel fuels offer a safer and easier to handle and is
more convenient than to traditional liquid fuels. For personal usage, gel fuels make
cooking, heating and lighting safer and convenient. The gel consistency decreases the
possibility of spills and leaks reducing the possibility of fire hazards.

Community Residents. The residents of Tupi will directly benefit from the
implementation of this project. Clean energy transition will lead to a healthier
environment, reducing health risks associated with using of traditional fuels like
kerosene coal and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) are not only non-renewable but also
contribute significantly to air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. The addition of
gel fuels in Tupi, South Cotabato will also empower residents because of its
convenience in terms of storage, transportation, and usage.

Environmental Advocates. Gel fuel burns cleanly and does not produce smoke
or any hazardous pollutants it is also a renewable energy source, because it is derived
from materials that are either plant-based or contain ethanol, making it more eco-
friendly than commercial fuels like fossil fuels. It’s a practical and clean-burning choice
for outdoor or indoor activities this makes it an ideal option for individuals who are trying
to decrease their carbon footprint.

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 Outdoor Enthusiasts and Campers. Gel fuel can help campers to reduce the
use of traditional fuels like kerosene and coal as their alternative. Using of gel fuels can
aid in clean energy transition it is safe for the environment and for humans because of
its natural variables. It’s convenience in terms of storage, transportation, and usage is
helpful for them.

Catering and Hospitality Industry. Gel fuels can be helpful during events and
buffets, restaurants and catering businesses to keep food warm in chafing dishes.
Which is very convenient for indoor use due to its odourless and smokeless
characteristics.

Entrepreneurs and Business Owners. Local entrepreneurs and business

owners could benefit from it because gel fuel burns more effectively and does not
produce smoke it is also a renewable energy source. Gel fuels often have a longer shelf
life than liquid fuels, which reduces the need for frequent restocking and disposal,
allowing businesses to acquire more energy per unit of fuel, which could aid to cost
savings over time.

Future Researchers. This study could help them, and provide baseline data for
future researchers; this study can also be used as a guide and may be cited as a
reference for those who want to expand the scope of the study for future research
projects.

Definition of Terms

Seashells. Conceptually, it is composed largely of calcium carbonate secreted

by the mantle, a skin like tissue in the mollusk’s body wall. It is used in gel fuels as a
gelling agent to modify the consistency of the fuel, helping to stabilize and thicken the
mixture. Operationally, in the study the seashells are mixed with ethanol and cane
vinegar to form a gel fuel. The seashell’s function is to act as a thickening agent,
increasing the viscosity of the liquid mixture and ensuring a stable gel-like consistency
that can be used as a fuel.

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 Coconut Vinegar. Conceptually, coconut vinegar is produced through the
fermentation of the sap from coconut flowers or the water from mature coconuts. It
contains acetic acid and various nutrients, contributing to its distinct flavor and potential
health benefits (Santos, 2020). Operationally, in the formulation of gel fuel, coconut
vinegar can be used similarly to cane vinegar. It adds acidity to the mixture, which can
enhance the gel's stability and modify its combustion characteristics. The specific
proportion of coconut vinegar affects the overall properties of the gel fuel, including its
viscosity and burning efficiency.

Cane Vinegar. Conceptually, cane vinegar is produced from the fermentation of

sugarcane juice and contains acetic acid, which can influence the gelation process of
fuel mixtures. Its acidic properties help in stabilizing the gel and modifying its chemical
characteristics (Rodriguez, 2019). Operationally, in the formulation of the gel fuel, cane
vinegar is combined with ethanol and seashells. It contributes to the acidity of the
mixture, which affects the gelling process and the stability of the final gel fuel. The
proportion of cane vinegar used helps determine the gel's stability and combustion
properties (Rodriguez, 2019).

Ethanol. Conceptually, ethanol is a flammable alcohol with the formula C₂H₅OH,

widely used as a fuel due to its high energy content and efficient combustion properties
(Johnson, 2018). Operationally, in the gel fuel preparation, ethanol serves as the
primary combustible component. It is mixed with seashells and cane vinegar to form a
gel that can be easily handled and burned efficiently. The amount of ethanol used
determines the fuel's energy output and combustion efficiency.

Gel Fuel. Conceptually, gel fuel is a fuel type that has been thickened into a gel-
like form using gelling agents mixed with liquid fuels. This form of fuel allows for safer
handling and more controlled combustion, often used in heating and cooking
applications (Williams, 2021). Operational, Gel fuel is created by combining seashells,
cane vinegar, and ethanol in specific proportions to achieve a gel-like consistency. The
operational process involves mixing these components thoroughly to produce a stable
gel that is tested for viscosity and combustion performance before use.