Research Programme

PROGRAMME 1

(1) BIOPOLYMER, BIOFUEL AND DERIVATIVES
      Head of Programme: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohd Zulkhairi Mohd Yusoff

Description

This program covers development of biomaterials including biopolymers and biochemicals from lignocellulosic materials for application in related industries. It seeks new and enhanced technology for the conversion of lignocellulose into biopolymers and biochemicals. It develops products such as bioresins, edible polymers, hydrogel, bio additives, bio-based coatings, and bio-based laminating materials. The research includes liquefaction, cellulose modifications, pyrolysis, and bioconversion of lignocelluloses into biopolymers and biochemicals.

Research Scopes:

1. biopolymers
2. bio-based coatings
3. bio-based laminating materials
4. biochemicals and pyroligneous acid
5. Biochar-based functional materials
6. bioresins

Stakeholders: Bio industry players, government agencies, local communities.

Expertise:

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

• Goal 4 - Quality Education
• Goal 7 - Affordable Clean Energy
• Goal 9 - Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
• Goal 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production
• Goal 13 – Climate Action

PROGRAMME 2

(2) PULP & PAPER TECHNOLOGY AND PRODUCTS
      Head of Programme: Dr. Ainun Zuriyati Mohamed @ Asa’ari

Description

This programme focuses on the preparation of pulp and nanofibres via chemical, mechanical, biological and combination of approaches aligned with environmental-friendly principles. The program also covers the whole chain of pulp and papermaking technology which comprises bleaching, deinking, finishing, testing and recycling. It also involves nanofibres production via chemical, mechanical, biological and combination processes. Specialty papermaking is one of the program’s focuses in developing insulator, water-resistant, information storage and enzymatic papers. This program also explores the development of smart papers for packaging applications such as active and intelligent papers involving safe and secure packaging.

Skop Penyelidikan / Research Scopes:

1. Pulping technology;
2. Bleaching technology;
3. Papermaking technology;
4. Drinking process (paper recycling);
5. Nano-cellulose processing;
6. Specialty papermaking (insulator, water-resistant, information storage, enzymatic paper);
7. Smart packaging (active and intelligent packaging; dan
8. Safe and secure packaging (shelf life, chemical mitigation, packaging design).

Stakeholders: Pulp and paper mills, government agencies, local communities.

Expertise:

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

• Goal 4 - Quality Education
• Goal 9 - Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
• Goal 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production
• Goal 13 – Climate Action
• Goal 15 – Life on Land

PROGRAMME 3

(3) BIOMASS INDUSTRY POLLUTION CONTROL
      Head of Programme: TBD

Description

This programme focuses on the pollution control and remediation of biomass industry. The objective is to minimise pollution from biomass industry towards zero waste emission. This programme promotes the creation of sustainable value-added products from the biomass industry waste, its utilisation and environmental impacts of the products. Technical life cycle analysis of the entire production chain is included to create sustainable conversion methods for follow-up development by industry.

Research Scopes:

1. Pollution control and remediation
2. Sustainable conversion of biomass industry waste into value-added products (i.e lignin based)
3. Pemulihan kimia / Chemical recovery and re utilisation (i.e pulp and paper mill)
4. Characterisation of biomass industry waste
5. Wastewater treatment (i.e pulp production and bioretting)

Stakeholders: Wood and biomass industry, government agencies, local communities.

Expertise:

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

• Goal 4 - Quality Education
• Goal 9 - Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
• Goal 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production
• Goal 13 – Climate Action
• Goal 15 – Life on Land

Updated:: 01/02/2024 [amallina.osman]