SERDANG, March 2024, the Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ION2), UPM, and research partners namely the University of Wollongong Malaysia (UOW Malaysia), the Advanced Manufacturing Research Group (AMReG) Department of Mechanical Engineering, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, and Cahya Mata Alam Sdn. Bhd. (Thermasite™ï¸) has successfully joined hands in revolutionizing the innovation of equipment and food packaging with green technology (biodegradable) in Malaysia.

The prototype of eco-friendly food utensils, named "PLATES: PLA-Tapioca Eco-Friendly Solutions" is a proactive step by the project team towards reducing the use and disposal of single-use plastic waste. By leveraging new techniques of fiber surface modification, the combined expertise of all project members has succeeded in developing a solution that not only ensures compatibility and improved material quality but also improves the biodegradability and biocompatibility of food packaging and utensils. This innovation is one of the important projects towards environmental conservation and sustainable packaging practices that decompose naturally.

Despite the extraordinary achievements achieved through this project, there is a solid support system, including research grants from the Ministry of Higher Education, UPM and UOW Malaysia. This funding provides the resources and funding needed to drive research work. In addition, research collaboration between academics and local industry has paved the way for the development of transdisciplinary research. It is hoped that technological innovation in Malaysia will continue to grow in line with global progress.

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