The Laboratory of Biopolymer and Derivatives, Institute of Tropical Forestry and Forest Products (INTROP), Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), successfully hosted a public seminar featuring Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohamed Zaky Zayed. Dr. Zaky, a visiting professor from the Department of Forestry and Wood, Faculty of Agriculture, Alexandria University, Egypt, shared his expertise in phytochemical applications with an engaged audience.

Seminar Topic:

Phytochemical Constituents in Leaf Extracts of Malaysian Trees and Its Usage as a Preservative for Wood and Wood-Based Composites Against Termites and Fungi

The seminar was held on March 4th, 2025, and began with a welcoming speech by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohd Zulkhairi Bin Mohd Yusoff, the Head of Biopolymer and Derivatives Laboratory, who set the stage for an insightful session. The seminar was moderated by Dr. Chin Kit Ling, who facilitated the discussions and ensured a smooth flow of the session. Attended by 35 academicians and researchers from the university and industry, the seminar provided valuable insights into the use of plant-derived extracts as natural wood preservatives. Dr. Zaky discussed the role of phytochemicals in enhancing wood durability, highlighting Malaysian tree species with strong preservative properties. He explained how these extracts could be applied in wood-based composites as eco-friendly alternatives to chemical preservatives. The discussion also covered opportunities for further research and industrial applications.

Seminar Impact:

Participants, including researchers and industry professionals, engaged in discussions about the potential adoption of natural preservatives in the wood industry. The session sparked interest in collaborative research and industrial applications, reinforcing the importance of sustainable approaches in wood preservation. Dr. Zaky emphasized how phytochemical preservatives can reduce environmental impact.

Summary:

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohamed Zaky Zayed, drawing from his extensive research in wood science, provided a comprehensive overview of the topic. His expertise in plant-based wood preservation solutions was well received by the attendees. Hosted by INTROP, UPM, the seminar focused on phytochemical-based wood preservatives. With 35 researchers in attendance, the event successfully fostered knowledge exchange and discussions on sustainable wood preservation methods.

This seminar served as an eye-opening discussion on how nature-inspired solutions can revolutionize the wood industry. The positive response from participants underscores the relevance of this research in addressing the challenges of wood preservation.

Head of the Biopolymer and Derivatives Laboratory, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohd Zulkhairi Bin Mohd Yusoff, and seminar speaker, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohamed Zaky Zayed. Dr. Zaky with the participants.

Participants are listening attentively to Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohamed Zaky Zayed presenting.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mohamed Zaky Zayed is giving a brief introduction about Alexandria University, Egypt.

Date of Input: 06/03/2025 | Updated: 06/03/2025 | amallina.osman