The preparatory phase for the experiment commenced during this period, following the successful research defense. The researchers focused on completing the essential documentation required to initiate laboratory work. Specifically, Form 8, Form 9, and Form 10 were finalized and submitted. These documents are critical to fulfilling institutional and ethical requirements, ensuring compliance with research standards, and facilitating the next steps in the experimental process.

During this period, the researchers concentrated on addressing revisions to the manuscript as recommended by the panel during the research defense. Concurrently, the approval form was gathered, with all necessary endorsements obtained from the panelists. These activities marked a crucial milestone in refining the research framework and obtaining formal authorization to proceed with laboratory activities.

The researchers actively engaged in laboratory training, acquainting themselves with the protocols and safety guidelines of each laboratory facility. In preparation for the experimental phase, documents necessary for laboratory reservations were prepared and submitted. Concurrently, procurement of experimental materials was undertaken. Substrate materials, including banana peels and mango peels, were sourced. Additional laboratory supplies, such as a strainer, aluminum foil, gloves, masks, cling wrap, trays, alcohol, dishwashing liquid, Durabox, and funnels, were acquired. These preparations ensured the availability of essential resources for subsequent experimental procedures.

Laboratory training sessions, supervised by the research adviser, were conducted during this period. Researchers received orientation on the specific equipment required for the experiment and were instructed on proper handling and usage techniques. The research advisees also updated the research adviser on the progress of preparatory activities and received further guidance. Experimental materials, particularly the biomass substrates (banana and mango peels), were processed. The peels were chopped and minced into smaller pieces using knives and scissors, then sun-dried for two days to reduce moisture content and prepare them for pretreatment. This stage marked the transition from preparatory to preliminary experimental activities.

A failed attempt at biomass milling was recorded on the first day of teh week due to the high moisture content of the banana and mango peels. The moisture inhibited proper milling, necessitating additional drying of the biomass. Consequently, the peels were sun-dried for an additional day to reduce their moisture content further.

On the second day, following the additional sun-drying, the peels appeared slightly dried with some charring evident on their surface. However, residual moisture was still present, affecting their texture. Under the guidance of the research adviser, the biomass was minced and chopped into smaller pieces, then milled using a blender. The milled samples were subsequently sieved, but the process presented challenges. The high moisture content caused the biomass to exhibit a mushy texture, taking the shape of the strainer and complicating the sieving process.

To address this, the samples were oven-dried at 60°C for 30 minutes. Despite this effort, the biomass retained significant moisture content. Given these limitations, the researchers proceeded to separate the samples into three treatment groups based on substrate ratios:

• 8:2 (Mango:Banana)

• 2:8 (Mango:Banana)

• 5:5 (Mango:Banana)

Each treatment was allocated 40 grams of biomass. However, replication of the treatments three times was not feasible due to insufficient biomass, particularly mango peels. The 5:5 ratio treatment could not be fully completed for the same reason, which may affect the balance of the experimental design moving forward.