UPCYCLING PRODUCT DESIGN FROM WATER HYACINTH WITH CREATIVE THINKING

Abstract

This research aims to study suitable water hyacinth upcycling processes for environmental product development. Design and develop products from water hyacinth scraps with creative thinking processes and create prototypes by transferring product knowledge to communities through applied research, which consists of a qualitative process coupled with statistical data. The questionnaire-based interview form was used for the relevant sample groups and the product design and development evaluation forms from the experts. The study found that innovative materials from water hyacinths can be developed into various products through sorting, drying, spinning, sifting, compacting, and injecting fibers. According to the separation and production techniques, the materials were divided into four groups depending on the size of the processed water hyacinth particles. From cushioning materials for small pet cages and flower pots to being used as a replacement for Polylactic Acid (PLA) resins for 3D printing.

In order to create a wide range of product usage, products have been designed that can be used in daily life. There is a demand for jewelry products that emphasize beauty and unique patterns, such as necklaces and bracelets, with an average requirement of 4.79 out of the maximum assessment level of 5.00, which is the most demanding criterion. The satisfaction study results on product development from water hyacinth scraps with creative thinking processes regarding physical usability and beauty were considered according to the evaluation list of 52 persons. It was found to be at the highest level of satisfaction (x = 4.59) with the lowest standard deviation (S.D. = 0.53). The model obtained from the design is used to transfer knowledge in product creation and to generate income from water hyacinth processing per community in the future.