`ABSTRACT

To address rising heat, the researchers constructed a DIY Air cooler

with materials difficult to or do not decompose, in order to provide a helping

hand to individuals. Considering that it was created from recyclable

materials, it was definitely cheap since most of the items were available at

home like the Styrofoam as insulating material, or at nearby stores. The

researchers failed at creating the supposed design on the outside of the

product, failing to make it look like a flower in a pot after realizing that using

too much design may hinder the actual uses of the DIY Air Cooler. Instead,

they focused on the inside, placing popsicle sticks on a rack. Ice is also

needed for a better cooling experience, but it is optional, as the Air cooler has

cooling modes since the researchers used a portable fan with LED lights. The

product can also give off scent through the air it releases for there are

cottons packed altogether and can be easily replaced. If the individual wishes

to use ice, putting salt can increase its durability. The DIY Air Cooler is

reduced 2 °C to 5 °C at room temperature and can last for about 5 hours

depending on the modes used. This Air cooler is more portable than other

electronics like air conditioners and fans since it can be carried anywhere not

requiring to be always plugged into an outlet, but there are way too many

differences in cooling. During summer vacations or for emergency purposes

like a power outage, the Air cooler may help with cooling and lighting. Waste

and energy consumption may be decreased by using recycled Styrofoam air

conditioners however, widespread use will need to address issues with

scalability and durability.

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 INTRODUCTION

Extreme heat is swiftly becoming a global problem that causes

prolonged drought, leading to severe water shortages and even deaths. One

of the major causes of the sudden rising of heat is the wastes that can’t

decompose as quickly as biodegradable materials, leaving no other choices

other than burning them, which releases a massive amount of carbon

dioxide, greenhouse gases, into the air.

Pollution, water shortage, and heat cause conflict in the daily lives of

people, due to their reliance on clean water, air, and other resources that are

essential to survive.

To find a solution to these problems/issues/concerns, the researchers

are striving to investigate the possible ways wherein it can help/assist not

only the individuals but the environment.

Statement of the problem

This study seeks to answer the following questions:

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 1. Which recyclable materials work best for making a do-it-yourself air

cooler?

2. What effects does the air cooler's design have on how well and

efficiently it cools?

3. How can we use the homemade air cooler as a long-term, sustainable

strategy to address the rising heat in our community?

Background of the study

It is difficult to recycle and doesn't decompose readily, expanded

polystyrene, or Styrofoam (EPS), is used extensively in insulating applications

but presents a significant environmental risk. Additionally contributing to

climate change is the high energy consumption of typical air conditioners. To

lower waste and energy consumption, this study investigates the viability of

utilizing recycled Styrofoam in air conditioners.

Hypothesis

The study makes the assumption that air conditioners constructed

from recycled Styrofoam will cost the same or less and be just as energy-

efficient as conventional models, with additional environmental advantages

like trash reduction.

Null hypotheses: An air cooler made from recyclable materials will not help to

cool air and won’t lessen waste materials.

Alternative hypothesis: An air cooler made from recyclable materials will help

to cool air and lessen waste materials.

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Review of Related Literature

Salt and Ice Longevity

As shown by studies, (Vikas Mendi et al, 2020; Estrabo et al, 2014) is known

to significantly prolong the lifespan of ice. When salt is added to water, it

lowers the freezing point, a phenomenon known as freezing point depression.

This occurs because salt disrupts the formation of ice crystals, allowing water

to remain liquid even at temperatures below freezing. Consequently, ice in

contact with a salt solution melts more slowly than ice without salt. The

creation of a brine solution, which has a lower freezing point than pure water,

further enhances this effect, ensuring that ice remains intact for a longer

duration.

Insulating Properties of Styrofoam

According to studies, (Vikas Mendi et al, 2020; Estrabo et al, 2014)

Styrofoam, or expanded polystyrene foam, is recognized for its excellent

insulating properties. Its structure, characterized by numerous air pockets,

minimizes heat transfer through conduction, convection, and radiation. This

makes Styrofoam an effective material for retaining cold temperatures,

similar to how it retains heat. In air cooling applications, Styrofoam can be

utilized to create insulated containers or coolers that maintain lower

temperatures for extended periods, thereby enhancing the overall efficiency

of cooling systems.

Previous Studies on Air Coolers Made from Recyclable Materials

Research conducted by Abad, et al (2018) has shown that air coolers can be

effectively constructed using recyclable materials, contributing to

sustainability in cooling technology. One study focused on the development

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of an electric air cooler made from improvised materials, including recycled

components. This cooler demonstrated the potential for effective cooling

while utilizing materials that would otherwise contribute to waste

Synergistic Effects

The combination of salt and Styrofoam can lead to synergistic effects in air

cooling applications. By using Styrofoam to insulate the cooling system and

incorporating salt to lower the melting rate of ice, the overall cooling

efficiency can be significantly improved. This approach not only prolongs the

cooling effect but also reduces energy consumption, making it a sustainable

solution for air cooling needs.

In conclusion, the integration of salt and Styrofoam in air cooling systems,

along with the development of air coolers made from recyclable materials,

offers promising avenues for enhancing cooling efficiency and sustainability.

The unique properties of these materials contribute to longer-lasting ice and

effective insulation, making them valuable components in innovative cooling

solutions.

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Significance of the study

It tackles two major environmental issues—the waste of non-

biodegradable materials and the excessive energy consumption of air

conditioners—this research is significant. The creation of a recycled

Styrofoam air conditioner could provide a sustainable replacement for the

cooling systems used today, as well as lower pollution and energy

consumption.

For the students. This study introduces them to apply ideas, like the

materials that are very difficult to recycle can turned into something that can

be useful. This study will make them understand more about how we can

reduce non-biodegradable wastes while also dealing with the problems

regarding heat waves. Thus, if the heat, even just some of it, is lifted or

reduced, the students would be more comfortable and on full attention to

their academic studies.

For the community. The creation of a DIY air cooler gives benefits to

the community of Pulilan, Bulacan, especially during the summer season

when there is excessive heat all around.

For the future researchers. May use this study as their reference. This

would help them to study the effectiveness and importance of a DIY air

cooler.

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 METHODS

Research Design

An experimental research design was used for this investigation. The

main goal is to construct a prototype air conditioner out of recycled

Styrofoam and compare its efficiency to that of standard air conditioners. The

objective is to evaluate the two models' energy efficiency, cooling

performance, and environmental impact.

Participants and Sample

To test the air cooler made from recycled materials, the group

provided a room wherein its performance was shown. As for the participants,

it will be the selected individuals who usually suffer from heat waves or high

temperatures.

Materials and Equipment

MATERIALS BORROWED BOUGHT RECYCLED

Portable Electric Fan /
PVC Head /
Cotton /

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 Popsicle Sticks /
Salt /
Yarn /
Styrofoam /
Spray Paint /
Plastic Bottles /
Perfume /
Glue Sticks /

Research Procedure

1. Design and Construction:

•The first step is designing a basic air conditioning unit using recycled

Styrofoam as the insulating material.

2. Performance Testing:

•Each air conditioner is tested for cooling capacity, energy efficiency,

and noise levels.

•The air conditioner runs in a controlled environment to measure their

performance under similar conditions.

3. Field Testing:

•Data on energy consumption, cooling effectiveness, and user

satisfaction will be collected.

4. Environmental Impact Assessment:

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 •Life cycle analysis can be done to evaluate the carbon footprint of

both the production and operation of the recycled Styrofoam air

conditioner.

5. Data Analysis:

•Data from the field tests are collected and analyzed to assess energy

consumption, performance, and environmental impact.

Procedure:

1. The bulging letters from styrofoam were removed for a smooth look.

2. Holes created on the Styrofoam for the attachment of PVC and Electric

fan.

3. Painted the Styrofoam, PVC, and the sliced bottle with its cap.

4. Glued the attachment to the Styrofoam along with the portable fan.

5. Placed popsicle sticks inside of the Styrofoam as a rack that can hold

up items.

6. Place a yarn or cotton and spray with perfume for scent.

Budget Analysis

Price per
Quantity Total (PHP)
MATERIALS Piece
Portable Electric Fan 1 pc. 0 0
PVC Head 1 pc. 60 60
Cotton 1 pack 8 8
Popsicle Sticks 1 pack 0 0
Salt 2 packs 7 14
Yarn 1 meter 0 0
Styrofoam 1 pc. 0 0
Spray Paint 3 pc. 115 345

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Plastic Bottles 1 pc. 0 0
Glue Sticks 8 pc. 0 0
Perfume 10ml. 0 0
TOTAL:
419

Optional:

 Spray paint

 Yarn

 Ice

 Perfume

The group has a total of 6 members. The contribution of each member was

PHP 82 (487/6). The budget has already been approved by the parents as

they are informed about the contributions per group member.

RESULTS

For energy efficiency, the recycled styrofoam air cooler consumes less

or comparable energy to traditional units due to styrofoam’s insulating

properties. Also, the units provide adequate cooling for small spaces but are

less effective for larger areas. Significant reduction in styrofoam waste and a

lower carbon footprint are anticipated. As for the cost-effectiveness, using

recycled materials has lower manufacturing costs, making the product more

affordable.

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Potential Implications

It is meant to reduce waste such as non-biodegradable materials to

promote sustainable waste management. This also lowers electricity bills and

reduces greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, it may create demand for

eco-friendly air coolers and other appliances connected.

Limitations

Durability might not be the best with recycled styrofoam since it may

not be as strong and long-lasting as conventional materials. Since the air

cooler is made out of recycled Styrofoam, it might not be as effective in large

spaces or extreme conditions. Scaling up the productions may face

challenges due to the styrofoam sourcing. The market acceptance can be

slow or low due to doubts about the product's durability.

Data Collected

In all three tests (Data 1, Data 2, and Data 3), the temperature was
lower when the air cooler was used.
• For Data 1, the temperature dropped from 26 to 24.

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 • For Data 2, it dropped from 24 to 21.
• For Data 3, it also dropped from 25 to 24.

30

25

20

15

10

0
Data 1 Data 2 Data 3

Normal W/ Air Cooler

This shows that the DIY air cooler helped reduce the temperature,
making it more effective than normal conditions.

Conclusion

Waste and energy consumption can be decreased by using recycled

Styrofoam air conditioners, but widespread use will need to address issues

with scalability and durability.

Discussion

The DIY Air cooler offers several benefits to an isolated room,

specifically since there is no possible entrance of air into the area. The

supposed primary outcome of making a homemade air cooler is to reduce the

heat in a place or surroundings. Waste and energy consumption may be

decreased by using recycled Styrofoam air conditioners, but widespread use

will need to address issues with scalability and durability.

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Recommendation

Since the DIY Air cooler did not meet up to supposed expectations, the

researchers would recommend using a filter derived from either thin fabric or

tissue paper to prevent dirt from being stuck into the air cooler whilst

maintaining its affordability. Additionally, battery capacity is highly

recommended for longer usage of the DIY air cooler.

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 REFERENCES

Sita, P. (2025) Do You Take the Styrofoam Out of the Air Conditioner?

https://smartacsolutions.com/do-you-take-the-styrofoam-out-of-the-air-

conditioner/

Sita, P. (2025) Is There Supposed to Be Styrofoam in My Air Conditioner?

https://smartacsolutions.com/is-there-supposed-to-be-styrofoam-in-my-air-
conditioner/

Reid, (2023) Environmental Impact of Styrofoam in Air Conditioners

https://fixflux.com/environmental-impact-of-styrofoam-in-air-conditioners/

Kirk, (2023) The Science of Salt and Ice: How to Make Your Ice Last
Longer
https://adventureready.com/blogs/news/the-science-of-salt-and-ice-how-to-
make-your-ice-last-longer.

Vikas Mendi, (2020) Use of Eco-coolers in Eco-cooling

https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1757-899X/1006/1/012005/pdf

Estrabo, (2015) Electric Air – Cooler Made Out of Improvised Materials

https://www.scribd.com/document/258262118/Aircon-Cooler

Abad, (2018) Alternative Air Cooler from Fan Parts

https://www.academia.edu/37095015/ALTERNATIVE_AIR_COOLER_FROM_FAN
_PARTS

Yilmaz, (2014) Salt Water Solution as PCM for Cooling

https://proceedings.ises.org/conference/eurosun2010/papers/eurosun2010-
0314-Medrano.pdf

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