Date of Completion

2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry

Keywords

Mango, Shelf Life

Abstract

Mango (Mangifera indica L.) is a climacteric fruit of high commercial value, prone to rapid postharvest ripening leading to substantial losses. This study evaluated the effectiveness of titanium dioxide (TiO₂)-based photocatalysts—undoped TiO₂, silver-doped (Ag–TiO₂), and silver–copper codoped (Ag–Cu–TiO₂)—in delaying ripening and degrading ethylene in Carabao mangoes under visible (LED) light. Nanoparticles synthesized via sol–gel yielded three distinct powders, which were characterized afterwards. UV–Vis spectroscopy confirmed enhanced visible-light absorbance beyond UV wavelengths (undoped: 325.5 nm; Ag–TiO₂: 681.0 nm; Ag–Cu–TiO₂: 684.5 nm). SEM– EDX showed uniform nanoscale morphology (~10–30 nm primary particles) with homogeneous dopant dispersion, while XRD indicated retention of the anatase phase (~14.43–14.78 nm crystallite size). ANOVA tests on ethylene degradation trials revealed that the TiO₂, Ag–TiO₂, and Ag–Cu–TiO₂ photocatalysts effectively reduced ethylene accumulation compared to the control. Ag–Cu–TiO₂ exhibited the most consistent performance; box plot analysis supported this stability. Ripening assessments indicated delayed firmness loss, color change, and sugar accumulation in treated mangoes. By Day 6, treated fruits retained 0.7–1.3 kg/cm² firmness, compared to 0.1 kg/cm² in controls, and reached 15–16°Brix more gradually. Slower, more gradual weight loss also suggested improved moisture retention. These findings highlight the potential of TiO₂, Ag–TiO₂, and Ag–Cu–TiO₂ photocatalysts as effective postharvest treatments for reducing ethylene accumulation, extending mango shelf life by 3–4 days, and preserving fruit quality.

First Advisor

Margel C. Bonifacio, RCh, PhD

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