SERDANG, March 2024 - ION2 Researcher, Ts. Dr. Mohd. Hafizuddin Ab. Ghani, as a co-researcher for the project "Pates: PLA-Tapioca Eco-Friendly Solutions," has won the Technical and Vocational Training Corporation Special Innovation Award from the Government of Saudi Arabia and a silver medal at the Malaysian Technology Expo (MTE) 2024. The event was held from 22nd to 24th February at the World Trade Center, Kuala Lumpur.

Dr. Mohd. Hafizuddin, along with Ts. Dr. Nishata Royan A/P Rajendran Royan, Principal Researcher and lecturer at the School of Engineering at UOW Malaysia, and her student, Muhammad Fadzlee Firas bin Moh, successfully produced a prototype food plate made from a combination of polylactic acid (PLA) and tapioca. The use of tapioca as a fiber source for PLA has effectively addressed the issue of brittleness that occurs when only PLA is used. This was achieved by introducing special treatment techniques to ensure compatibility between PLA and tapioca fiber.

This significant achievement at the Malaysian Technology Expo 2024 underscores the commitment of Dr. Mohd. Hafizuddin, who is also a research officer, to advancing technological innovation. For the record, MTE successfully gathers key figures from various sectors annually, including researchers, inventors, entrepreneurs, and industry experts, to showcase the latest discoveries and innovations. It is a platform where ideas germinate, foster collaboration, and inspire progress.

The "Pates: PLA-Tapioca Eco-Friendly Solutions" project is a testament to the potential of sustainable materials in reducing environmental impact. By combining PLA and tapioca, the research team has developed a solution that not only improves material properties but also enhances biodegradability. This innovation is a step forward in addressing the global challenge of plastic waste, aligning with the goals of environmental conservation and sustainable development.

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Date of Input: 29/03/2024 | Updated: 25/07/2024 | nurnazeera