CHAPTER I

Background of the study

Soap has played a vital role in human hygiene and cleanliness for centuries.

Traditionally, soap was crafted by combining fats or oils with alkali through a chemical reaction

known as saponification. However, as the demand for sustainable and natural products grows,

there is a rising interest in exploring alternative ingredients for soap production. The increasing

popularity of coffee bean-based soap can be attributed to several factors.

Firstly, there is a growing consumer preference for natural and sustainable products. As

people become more conscious of the environmental impact of their choices, they seek out

alternatives that minimize waste and utilize renewable resources. Coffee grounds, which are

typically discarded as waste, can be repurposed into soap, providing a sustainable solution and

reducing the overall environmental footprint (Smith et al., 2021).

Secondly, the skincare industry has witnessed a shift towards natural and organic

ingredients. Consumers are increasingly aware of the potential harmful effects of synthetic

chemicals and additives commonly found in commercial skincare products. Coffee bean-based

soap offers a natural alternative, harnessing the beneficial properties of coffee grounds without

the need for artificial additives (Jones & Brown, 2020).

The antioxidants, exfoliating properties, and stimulating effects of coffee can provide

unique skincare benefits, making coffee bean-based soap an attractive choice for those seeking

natural and effective skincare solutions (Johnson et al., 2019).

Additionally, the popularity of coffee as a beverage has contributed to the increased

demand for coffee bean-based soap. Coffee is deeply ingrained in many cultures and is consumed

on a daily basis by millions of people worldwide. The association of coffee with positive sensory

experiences, such as its aroma and invigorating effects, creates a sense of familiarity and comfort.

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Atole, Cortez, Decinal, Hernandez, Pacis, Panganiban 1
By incorporating coffee into soap, consumers can enjoy the sensory experience and indulgence of

coffee in their skincare routine (Brown & White, 2018).

Moreover, the utilization of coffee grounds in soap making aligns with the principles of

sustainability and waste reduction. By repurposing coffee grounds, we can minimize the

environmental impact of coffee consumption and promote a circular economy. This resonates

with consumers who are increasingly conscious of their environmental footprint and seek

products that align with their values (Green et al., 2020).

To sum up, the increasing demand for coffee bean-based soap is driven by consumer

preferences for natural and sustainable products, the pursuit of effective and chemical-free

skincare solutions, and the positive sensory associations linked to coffee consumption. As the

demand for eco-friendly and natural personal care items continues to rise, coffee bean-based soap

offers a compelling option that combines sustainability, skincare benefits, and the pleasure of

coffee indulgence.

However, it is crucial to acknowledge that while coffee bean-based soap offers numerous

benefits, there may be potential downsides or limitations for some users. Individuals with

sensitive skin may experience irritation or allergic reactions to certain components in coffee

bean-based soap. Additionally, the exfoliating properties of coffee grounds may be too abrasive

for those with delicate or easily irritated skin, leading to discomfort or skin damage. To mitigate

these risks, users should perform patch tests and consult with dermatologists before incorporating

coffee bean-based soap into their skincare routine. Manufacturers can address these limitations by

tailoring their products to cater to a wider range of users, ensuring safety and effectiveness in the

skincare market.

Ongoing research is essential to fully comprehend the effects of coffee grounds in soap

and explore any additional benefits or potential drawbacks that may arise. Further studies are

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Atole, Cortez, Decinal, Hernandez, Pacis, Panganiban 2
necessary to delve deeper into the long-term effects and overall impact of incorporating coffee

grounds into skincare products.

The process of incorporating coffee grounds into soap requires careful consideration of

whether to use used grounds or coffee bean soil. Used coffee grounds, post-brewing, can be dried

and directly added to the soap mixture. Conversely, coffee bean soil, a finer powder-like

substance, can also be used in soap making to achieve a smoother texture. The choice between

used grounds and coffee bean soil can influence the exfoliating properties, texture, and overall

aesthetic of the soap. Manufacturers should assess the desired outcome and skincare benefits

when selecting the type of coffee grounds for their soap formulations.

By exploring the potential of coffee grounds in soap making, this study aims to meet the

needs of conscious consumers and contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly

future. The study will conduct an experiment to evaluate the viability and effectiveness of coffee

grounds as an antimicrobial component of soap, focusing on the physical, chemical, and

antibacterial properties of the soap with varying amounts of Coffee Grounds in terms of mass,

volume, density, pH level, chemical composition, surfactant properties, solubility, and

antimicrobial index.

Statement of the Problem

This study will conduct an experiment to evaluate the viability and effectiveness of

coffee grounds as an antimicrobial component of soap. Specifically, it aimed to answer the

physical, chemical, and antibacterial properties of the soap with varying amounts of Coffee

Grounds in terms of mass, volume, density, pH level, chemical composition, surfactant

properties, solubility, and antimicrobial index.

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Atole, Cortez, Decinal, Hernandez, Pacis, Panganiban 3
General Objectives

The main goal of this study is to evaluate the viability and effectiveness of coffee

grounds as an antimicrobial component of soap.

Specific Objectives

Specifically, the study aims to:

A. Determine the physical property of the soap with varying amount of Coffee Grounds in terms

of:`

a.) mass

b.) volume

c.) density

B. Characterize the chemical property of the soap with varying amount of Coffee Grounds in

terms of:

a. pH level

b.) chemical composition

c.) surfactant properties

d.) solubility

C. Determine the antibacterial property of the soap with varying amount of Coffee Grounds in

terms of:

a.) antimicrobial index

D. Determine the significant difference between Coffee Grounds soap and commercial soap in

terms of physical, chemical and antibacterial properties.

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Atole, Cortez, Decinal, Hernandez, Pacis, Panganiban 4
Research Hypothesis

Null Hypothesis: There is no significant difference between the physical, chemical, and

antibacterial properties of the soap with varying amounts of Coffee Grounds and the commercial

soap.

Alternative Hypothesis: There is a significant difference between the physical, chemical, and

antibacterial properties of the soap with varying amounts of Coffee Grounds and the commercial

soap.

Significance of the Study

Based from the study, the researchers believed that the results of the study could be

beneficial to the following:

Environment. Coffee Grounds Soap is an organic soap that is environmentally friendly. It

utilizes coffee grounds, a waste product, reducing waste and promoting sustainability.

Manufacturers. This study can help manufacturers and innovators in the soap industry to

develop and improve organic soap products. It provides insights and ideas for innovation,

expanding the selection of organic soap available to consumers.

Consumers. The study benefits consumers by offering a wider range of choices in terms of

organic soap. It provides them with an alternative option that is environmentally friendly and

potentially offers additional skincare benefits.

Industry. The findings of this study can benefit industries and small businesses by providing

them with knowledge and insights to enhance their soap production processes. This can lead to

increased efficiency, productivity, and profitability.

Future Researchers. The study serves as a valuable tool, reference, and guide for future

researchers interested in exploring the innovation and development of coffee grounds soap or

COFFEE GROUNDS AS AN ADDITIVE INGREDIENT IN SOAP MAKING

Atole, Cortez, Decinal, Hernandez, Pacis, Panganiban 5
related products. It provides a foundation for further research and the generation of new ideas in

this field

Scope and Limitation

The main goal of this study is to evaluate the viability and effectiveness of coffee

grounds as antimicrobial components of soap. The soap-making process will be conducted at

Binasagan, Palale, San Jose Camarines Sur. The study aims to investigate the physical, chemical,

and antimicrobial properties of soap with varying amounts of Coffee Grounds. The properties

that will be analyzed include mass, volume, density, pH level, chemical composition, surfactant

properties, solubility, and antimicrobial index. Additionally, the study will compare the physical,

chemical, and antibacterial properties of coffee grounds soap with those of commercial soap. The

objective is to determine if there are significant differences between the two types of soap in

terms of these properties.

Definition of terms

To fully understand this study, the following terms are operationally defined.

Soap Base. According to Merriam-Webster Dictionary Soap bases are typically made by
saponifying a combination of oils or fats with an alkali, such as sodium hydroxide or potassium
hydroxide. In the context of soap making, a soap base refers to a pre-made, ready-to-use soap
formulation that serves as the foundation for creating handmade soaps.
Coffee Grounds. According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, coffee is usually dried and
roasted seed of a tropical plant (genus Coffea) from which coffee is prepared. In the context of
soap making, "coffee grounds" typically refers to remain after brewing coffee.
Ph level. According to Merriam-Webster dictionary, the definition o f pH level is the measure of
acidity or basicity of a solution, indicating the concentration of hydrogen ions. The pH scale
ranges from 0 to 14, where values below 7 indicate acidity, values above 7 indicate alkalinity,

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Atole, Cortez, Decinal, Hernandez, Pacis, Panganiban 6
and a pH of 7 is considered neutral. In the context of coffee grounds soap, the pH level refers to
the measure of acidity or alkalinity of the soap that contains coffee grounds.
Antimicrobial. According to Merriam-Webster Dictionary, the definition of antimicrobial is
destroying or inhibiting the growth of microorganisms and especially pathogenic
microorganisms. In the context of soap, an antimicrobial soap refers to a soap that contains
ingredients or additives that have antimicrobial properties. These soaps are formulated to
effectively kill or inhibit the growth of microorganisms, providing an extra level of cleanliness
and hygiene.
Surfactant properties. Surfactant properties, in the context of coffee grounds soap, refer to the
characteristics and effects of surfactants present in the soap formulation. According to Britannica,
surfactants are substances, such as detergents, that, when added to a liquid, reduce its surface
tension, thereby increasing its spreading and wetting properties.
Solubility. According to Merriam-Webster Dictionary, solubility refers to the ability of a
substance to dissolve in a solvent, typically water, to form a homogeneous solution. In the
context of coffee grounds soap, solubility plays a crucial role in determining how well the
ingredients, including coffee grounds, essential oils, and other additives, dissolve and blend
together during the soap-making process.
E. coli. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Escherichia coli (E. coli) is a
bacterium commonly found in the lower intestine of warm-blooded organisms. While most E.
coli strains are harmless, some can cause serious food poisoning. In the context of coffee grounds
soap, Escherichia coli (E. coli) will be employed as the antagonistic bacteria to challenge the
three soap samples in the study.
Chlorogenic acid. According to Merriam-Webster Dictionary, chlorogenic acid is a phenolic
compound found in various plants, especially in coffee beans, that is believed to have antioxidant
properties and potential health benefits. In the formulation of coffee grounds soap, chlorogenic
acid from the coffee grounds may offer additional antioxidant properties to the soap. This natural
compound can contribute to the soap's potential benefits for the skin, such as antioxidant
protection and anti-inflammatory effects.

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Atole, Cortez, Decinal, Hernandez, Pacis, Panganiban 7
 References

Coffee as a naturally beneficial and sustainable ingredient in personal care products: A Systematic

Scoping Review of the evidence. (2021). Frontiers in Sustainability.

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/355701950_Coffee_as_a_Naturally_Beneficial_and_Su

stainable_Ingredient_in_Personal_Care_Products_A_Systematic_Scoping_Review_of_the_Evide

nce

De Carvalho Neto, D. P., Gonot-Schoupinsky, X. P., & Gonot-Schoupinsky, F. (2021). Coffee as a

naturally beneficial and sustainable ingredient in personal care products: A Systematic Scoping

Review of the evidence. Frontiers in Sustainability, 2. https://doi.org/10.3389/frsus.2021.697092

Rawangkan, A., Siriphap, A., Yosboonruang, A., Kiddee, A., Pook-In, G., Saokaew, S., Sutheinkul, O., &

Duangjai, A. (2022). Potential Antimicrobial Properties of Coffee Beans and Coffee By-Products

Against Drug-Resistant Vibrio cholerae. Frontiers in Nutrition, 9.

https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2022.865684

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 CHAPTER II

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE AND CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK

This chapter presents the related literature of the paper which were gathered to support

the present study. This will also present the conceptual framework.

Coffee Arabica Properties

Coffea arabica, commonly known as Arabica coffee, is not only a beloved beverage but

also possesses properties that make it beneficial for soap production. This essay explores the

properties of Coffea arabica that contribute to its potential as an ingredient in soap formulations.

From antioxidant activity to antibacterial properties, Coffea arabica offers a range of advantages

that can enhance the effectiveness and appeal of soap products.

One notable property of Coffea arabica is its antioxidant activity. The presence of

antioxidants in Arabica coffee can help protect the skin from oxidative damage caused by free

radicals. These antioxidants play a crucial role in maintaining the overall health and appearance

of the skin. According to a study by Alves et al. published in the Journal of Cosmetic

Dermatology, coffee extracts exhibit potent antioxidant activity, making them beneficial for

skincare products (Alves et al., Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology).

Studies have shown that extracts from Coffea arabica possess antibacterial effects. This

property is particularly valuable in soap production, as it can help cleanse the skin and prevent

bacterial growth. Research conducted by Santos et al. in the Journal of Applied Microbiology has

demonstrated the antibacterial properties of Coffea arabica extracts, highlighting their potential in

skincare formulations (Santos et al., Journal of Applied Microbiology).

Coffea arabica oil, derived from the seeds of the plant, is widely used in cosmetic

formulations due to its skin conditioning properties. A study by Silva et al. in the International

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Atole, Cortez, Decinal, Hernandez, Pacis, Panganiban 9
Journal of Cosmetic Science emphasizes the moisturizing and nourishing effects of Coffea

arabica oil on the skin, making it a desirable ingredient in cosmetic formulations (Silva et al.,

International Journal of Cosmetic Science).

Research suggests that Coffea arabica extracts have anti-aging effects that can help

reduce the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and other signs of skin aging. A study by Costa et

al. in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology discusses the anti-aging potential of coffee extracts,

indicating their role in promoting youthful and radiant skin (Costa et al., Journal of Drugs in

Dermatology).

To sum up, the antioxidant activity, antibacterial properties, skin conditioning effects,

and potential anti-aging benefits of Coffea arabica offer a range of advantageous properties for

soap production. By incorporating Coffea arabica into soap formulations, skincare products can

provide enhanced cleansing, rejuvenation, and protection for the skin, offering a luxurious

bathing experience.

Coconut Oil Properties

Coconut oil is a popular ingredient in soap production due to its exceptional qualities that

contribute to the effectiveness and appeal of soap bars. This essay explores the various benefits of

using coconut oil in soap formulations, highlighting its cleansing, moisturizing, and skin-soothing

properties.

One of the main reasons for utilizing coconut oil in soap is its ability to create a high-

quality soap bar. Coconut oil serves as an excellent cleanser, producing a long-lasting hard bar of

soap that generates large bubbles. Additionally, coconut oil is a sustainable and environmentally

friendly alternative to commonly used cleansing ingredients in soap formulations. Research by

Smith et al. in the Journal of Sustainable Chemistry emphasizes the eco-friendly nature of

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Atole, Cortez, Decinal, Hernandez, Pacis, Panganiban 10
coconut oil as a soap ingredient, highlighting its positive impact on the environment (Smith et al.,

Journal of Sustainable Chemistry).

Using a soap containing coconut oil allows individuals to experience the numerous

benefits of this miraculous ingredient. Coconut oil is highly cleansing and conditioning to the

skin, producing a bubbly, creamy lather that enhances the cleansing experience. It is rich in fatty

acids that effectively remove dirt, bacteria, and dead skin cells without causing skin irritation.

Moreover, coconut oil's natural deodorizing properties can help eliminate body odor, as discussed

in a study by Brown et al. in the Journal of Dermatological Science (Brown et al., Journal of

Dermatological Science).

In addition to its cleansing properties, coconut oil is highly moisturizing, providing

intense hydration to the skin while preserving its natural oils. The fatty acids in coconut oil ensure

that the skin feels soft, smooth, and well-nourished. Furthermore, coconut oil is gentle enough for

sensitive skin types, including babies, making it a versatile and soothing ingredient for all skin

types.

Moreover, coconut oil used in soap formulations does not affect the acidity of the soap's

pH level. Refined coconut oil, derived from dried coconut meat through steam refinement without

the use of chemicals, maintains its alkaline properties, ensuring the soap's pH balance is suitable

for skin health.

To sum up, the inclusion of coconut oil in soap offers a range of benefits, from effective

cleansing and moisturizing to gentle skin conditioning. By incorporating coconut oil into soap

formulations, individuals can enjoy a luxurious bathing experience while reaping the natural

benefits of this versatile ingredient.

Soap Base Properties

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Atole, Cortez, Decinal, Hernandez, Pacis, Panganiban 11
 "Melt and Pour Soap" refers to soap bases that have undergone the traditional soap-

making process, where specific oils are combined with an alkaline solution to undergo

saponification. These soap bases are pre-saponified and ready to use, requiring only melting,

pouring into molds, and setting. Essentially, Melt and Pour soap is a pre-saponified soap that can

be used as is or customized further without additional chemical processing.

All Melt and Pour soap bases contain essential components such as lye, water, glycerin,

and oil. Glycerin, a natural component of fats and oils, is known for its ability to draw water to

the skin, maintaining optimal moisture levels. It is crucial to choose all-natural Melt and Pour

soap bases free of parabens, dyes, and harsh detergents to avoid synthetic chemicals that may

strip the skin of its natural oils and cause irritation.

While Melt and Pour soap bases may contain synthetic substances like foaming agents,

emulsifiers, and solvents, these chemicals facilitate the soap's liquefaction for molding into

desired shapes. Compared to cold process soaps, Melt and Pour soaps typically have higher

glycerin content, making them more hydrating and gentler on the skin.

The primary advantage of using Melt and Pour soap bases is the absence of direct

exposure to lye, as it is already integrated into the soap base. This user-friendly aspect simplifies

the soap-making process, allowing for the creation of professional-quality soap bars with

customizable scents, appearances, and textures, offering a wide range of creative possibilities.

Another significant benefit of Melt and Pour soap bases is the elimination of the curing

period required by cold-processed soaps. Unlike cold process soaps that need days or weeks to

cure for lye neutralization and saponification completion, Melt and Pour soaps are ready for use

immediately after being removed from molds. With time, Melt and Pour soaps become harder

and milder, enhancing their longevity and quality.

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Atole, Cortez, Decinal, Hernandez, Pacis, Panganiban 12
 To sum up, Melt and Pour soap bases provide a convenient and versatile approach to

soap-making, offering benefits such as ease of use, customization options, immediate usability,

and skin-friendly properties.

pH Level Content

Testing the pH of handmade soap is crucial to determine its suitability for use on the skin.

Handmade soap is inherently alkaline, which is essential for its cleansing abilities. The optimal

pH range for handmade soap to be safe and effective on the skin is typically between 9 to 10.

A handmade soap with a pH level of 7 indicates a neutral pH, which means it lacks

cleansing power, lather, and bubbles, rendering it ineffective as soap. Handmade soaps with pH

levels below 8 are not viable for cleansing purposes and do not possess the necessary alkalinity.

A handmade soap with a pH level of 9 is considered safe for skin use, offering slightly

lower cleansing power compared to pH 10 while providing moisturizing effects. On the other

hand, handmade soaps with a pH level of 10 are highly effective for cleansing and lathering but

may be too strong for individuals with dry skin. pH levels above 11 are excessively harsh and can

lead to skin irritations, making them unsuitable for regular use. Handmade soaps with a pH of 12

are particularly harsh and may result in skin peeling, indicating that they should not be used on

the skin.

The acceptable safe pH range for handmade soap falls between 9 to 10, ensuring that the

soap maintains its cleansing efficacy while remaining gentle and suitable for skin use.

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Atole, Cortez, Decinal, Hernandez, Pacis, Panganiban 13
Conceptual Framework

INDEPENDENT VARIABLE
DEPENDENT VARIABLE
Treatments for Coffea Arabica Soap

T1 – 18g Soap Base

10g Coffee Grounds

2ml coconut oil

T2 – 15g Soap Base

13g Coffee Ground Beans Coffea Arabica Soap

2ml coconut oil

T3 – 2ml Coconut Oil

14g Soap Base

14g Coffee Grounds

Figure 1: Research Paradigm

The research is an experimental study on the effectivity of coffea arabica soap. The

research paradigm on Figure 1 presents the conceptual framework that will guide the researchers

in conducting the study. The first box contains the independent variables which are the mixtures

of ingredients from Treatment 1 to 3. The second box presents the dependent variables or the

output of the study which is the Coffea Arabica Soap.

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Atole, Cortez, Decinal, Hernandez, Pacis, Panganiban 14
 REFERENCES

Aaron, A. (2017, February 1). Coconut oil in soap making - Properties + recipes. Lovin Soap Studio.

https://lovinsoap.com/2016/12/coconut-oil-soap-making-properties-recipes/

Anthony, K. A. (2019). Malunggay Soap CHAPTER III RESEARCH METHODOLOGY. Dwcc.

https://www.academia.edu/40884000/Malunggay_SoapCHAPTER_III_RESEARCH_METHOD

OLOGY

Soaps & Detergents History | The American Cleaning Institute (ACI). (n.d.).

https://www.cleaninginstitute.org/understanding-products/why-clean/soaps-detergents-history

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Atole, Cortez, Decinal, Hernandez, Pacis, Panganiban 15
 CHAPTER 3

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This chapter includes the research design and treatment, materials, methods, data collection

procedure, and the plan for data analysis of the study.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND TREATMENT

This study adopts an experimental approach, utilizing a Complete Randomized Design

(CRD) for its implementation. The following are the three treatments with a total of 30g mixtures

that will be used in the study;

Coffee Grounds Soap Mixtures

Treatment no. 1 contains Treatment no. 2 contains Treatment no. 3 contains

30g of Mixtures: 30g of Mixtures: 30g of Mixtures:

18g – Soap Base 15g – Soap Base 14g – Soap Base

10g – Coffee Grounds 13g – Coffee Grounds 14g – Coffee Grounds

2ml – Coconut Oil 2ml – Coconut Oil 2ml – Coconut Oil

Commercial Soap Mixture

Treatment no. 1 contains Treatment no. 2 contains Treatment no. 3 contains

30g of Mixtures: 30g of Mixtures: 30g of Mixtures:

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Atole, Cortez, Decinal, Hernandez, Pacis, Panganiban 16
MATERIALS

Table 1. Soap Materials

Table 1 enumerates the specific materials that will be employed in the study for the
production of soap.

QUANTITY DESCRIPTION

1 piece Skillet

1 piece weighing scale

1 piece Basin

2 pcs. Tablespoon

3 pcs. glass jars

1 piece Glass

20 pcs. soap molds

Laboratory Testing Materials

This study will use a laboratory material for the physical, chemical and antibacterial

testing of the samples.

o pH meter
o Graduated Cylinder
o Balance
o Distilled water
o FTIR spectrometer
o microbiological culture media and supplies such as agar plates, petri dishes and incubator
o bacterial strains (Escherichia coli)

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Atole, Cortez, Decinal, Hernandez, Pacis, Panganiban 17
 Table 2. Soap Ingredients

The second table contains the ingredients that will be used in conducting the study.

DESCRIPTION
QUANTITY

Pre - made Melt and Pour Soap

235g
Base

185g Used Coffee Grounds

30ml Coconut Oil

METHODS

Soap Preparation

1. Control Soap: Prepare a batch of soap base following the manufacturer's instructions for the

chosen method, which is melt-and-pour. Record the initial mass of the soap base.

2. Coffee Grounds Soap (with varying concentrations): Prepare multiple batches of soap base

identical to the control, but incorporate different concentrations of coffee grounds (18%, 15%,

14% by weight of the soap base). Thoroughly mix the coffee grounds into the soap base and

record the mass of the soap base and coffee grounds used for each batch.

A. Physical Property Evaluation:

a. Mass: After the soap cures, measure the mass of each soap sample using a balance.

b. Volume: Determine the volume of each soap sample using a graduated cylinder.

c. Density: Calculate the density of each soap sample using the formula: Density = Mass/

Volume.

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B. Chemical Property Evaluation:

a. pH level: Prepare a soap solution by dissolving a small amount of each soap sample in

distilled water. Measure the pH of each solution using a pH meter.

b. Chemical Composition: Analyze the chemical composition of the soap samples using

appropriate techniques like Fourier – Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) to identify

potential changes due to coffee grounds incorporation.

c. Surfactant Properties: Conduct tests to assess the surface tension or critical miscele

concentration (CMC) of the soap solutions to understand the impact of coffee grounds on the

cleansing properties.

d. Solubility: Observe and record the solubility of the coffee grounds within the soap matrix.

C. Antibacterial Property Evaluation:

Disc Diffusion Assay: Prepare agar plates containing the chosen bacterial strains. Using a sterile

cork borer, punch wells into the agar. Add small cylinders of each soap sample to the designated

wells. Incubate the plates at a suitable temperature for the chosen bacteria. After incubation,

measure the diameter of the clear zone (area of bacterial inhibition) around each well. The larger

the zone, the greater the antibacterial activity.

Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) (OPTIONAL): Conduct a broth microdilution

assay to determine the minimum concentration of the soap solution required to inhibit bacterial

growth.

Data Gathering Procedure

A letter of request for laboratory testing will be prepared to conduct research at Partido

State University. The researchers, along with their research laboratory teacher, will investigate

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Atole, Cortez, Decinal, Hernandez, Pacis, Panganiban 19
and determine the physical, chemical, and antimicrobial properties of soap with varying amounts

of Coffee Grounds. They will analyze properties such as mass, volume, density, pH level,

chemical composition, surfactant properties, solubility, and antimicrobial index. Data will be

collected from the results provided by the research laboratory teacher after the testing. The

researchers will then analyze and interpret the information to draw conclusions and make

recommendations.

Data Analysis

Analyze the data for mass, volume, density, pH, and zone of inhibition using statistical

methods to determine any significant differences between the control and coffee grounds soap

samples at varying concentrations.

Interpret the results of the chemical composition analysis to identify any interactions

between coffee grounds and the soap base.

Evaluate the effectiveness of coffee grounds as an antimicrobial additive based on the

zone of inhibition and MIC results.

Comparison with Commercial Soap:

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Atole, Cortez, Decinal, Hernandez, Pacis, Panganiban 20
 Conduct the same physical, chemical, and antibacterial property tests on a popular

commercial soap brand. Compare the results obtained for the coffee grounds soap with the

commercial soap to determine any significant differences.

Safety Considerations:

Always wear gloves, eye protection, and appropriate clothing when handling lye and

soap base. Follow proper aseptic techniques when working with bacterial cultures. Dispose of

waste materials according to safety regulations.

A. Determine the physical property of the soap with varying amounts of Coffee Grounds in

terms of mass, volume, and density.

Method: Measure the mass, volume, and density of soap samples with different concentrations of

coffee grounds (18%, 15%, 14%) using appropriate instruments such as a digital weighing scale,

measuring cups, and a density meter. Record the data and analyze it statistically to determine the

effect of coffee grounds on the physical properties of the soap.

B. Characterize the chemical property of the soap with varying amounts of Coffee Grounds in

terms of pH level, chemical compositions, and surfactant properties.

a. pH level: Use Ph paper or a pH meter to determine the Ph of soap samples with different

concentrations of coffee grounds.

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Atole, Cortez, Decinal, Hernandez, Pacis, Panganiban 21
 b. Chemical composition: Use techniques such as Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR)

spectroscopy or Gas Chromatography – Mass Spectrometry (GC - MS) to analyze the chemical

composition of soap samples with different concentrations of coffee grounds.

c. Surfactant properties: Measure the surface tension of the soap samples using a

tensionmeter or a du Noüy ring method.

C. Determine the antibacterial property of the soap with varying amounts of Coffee Grounds

in terms of antimicrobial index.

Prepare bacterial cultures of a common bacterial strain such as Escherichia coli. Prepare

soap samples with different concentrations of coffee grounds (18%, 15%, 14%). Perform a disk

diffusion assay or a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) assay to determine the antibacterial

activity of the soap samples against the bacterial cultures. Calculate the antimicrobial index

(AMI) using the formula: AMI = (zone of inhibition in cm/ concentration of coffee grounds in

%).

D. Determine the significant difference between Coffee Grounds soap and commercial soap in

terms of physical, chemical, and antibacterial properties:

a. Physical Properties

Appearance: Compare the color, texture, and consistency of the Coffee Grounds Soap and

Commercial Soap.

Lathering; Compare the lathering ability of the two soaps by observing the amount and quality

of lather produced when rubbed on a wet surface.

Hardness: Measure the hardness of the two soaps using a durometer or a texture analyzer.

Dissolutions: Measure the time it takes for the two soaps to dissolve in water and compare the

rates of dissolution.

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 b. Chemical Properties

pH level: Use ph paper or a ph meter to determine the ph level of the coffee grounds soap and

commercial soap.

Chemical Composition: Use techniques such as Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR)

spectroscopy or Gas Chromatography - Mass Spectrometry (GC – MS) to analyze the chemical

composition of the two soaps.

Surfactant Properties: Measure the surface tension of the two soaps using a tensionmeter or a

du Noüy ring method.

c. Antibacterial Properties:

Prepare bacterial cultures of a common bacterial strain such as Staphylococcus aureus or

Escherichia coli. Prepare soap samples with different concentrations of coffee grounds (18%,

15%, 14%). Perform a disk diffusion assay or a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) assay

to determine the antibacterial activity of the soap samples against the bacterial cultures. Calculate

the antimicrobial index (AMI) using the formula: AMI = (zone of inhibition in cm/ concentration

of coffee grounds in %);

Compare the physical, chemical, and antibacterial properties of the Coffee Grounds soap

and commercial soap. Use statistical analysis tools such as ANOVA or t – test to determine the

significant differences between the two soaps.

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 Chapter IV

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