October 22, 2024, Serdang – INTROP, UPM, recently hosted a benchmarking visit from four researchers from Politeknik Jeli, Kelantan. The visit aimed to gain deeper insight into the equipment and exposure that could support the implementation of the TVET Applied Research Grant Scheme (T-ARGS), while fostering a collaborative research network between INTROP, UPM, and Politeknik Jeli, Kelantan. The grant project is titled: "The Development of Polylactic Acid (PLA)-Based Bioplastic Incorporated with Ethylene Gas Absorbent Material as an Active Packaging to Enhance Shelf Life of Climacteric Fruits."

List of Attending Researchers:

1. Muhamad Syazwan bin Azizi – Lead Researcher
2. Mr. Amir Afuan bin Nordin
3. Ms. Noor Anizah binti Maarof
4. Ms. Khairunisa binti Ab Aziz
5. Mr. Saifuddin bin Semail

The visiting researchers were introduced to the key equipment used in the lab, including the UL94 Burning Chamber, Limiting Oxygen Index (LoI) tester, thermal testing equipment like the Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) and Dynamic Mechanical Analyzer (DMA), spectroscopy tools like the Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR), as well as PLA polymer processing equipment such as the Twin Screw Extruder and Internal Mixer. Brief demonstrations and explanations of the functionality of each tool were provided by the lab staff.

A discussion session was also held to exchange ideas and perspectives between researchers from both institutions. This included discussions on potential collaboration in relevant research areas. The researchers also conducted initial data collection from this visit and observed work methods and lab procedures for further research purposes at their respective institutions.

Politeknik Jeli, Kelantan, expressed interest in scheduling regular follow-up meetings to discuss the research progress on this project. This visit has proven valuable in expanding knowledge in bioplastic production and paves the way for potential collaboration in the future.

Date of Input: 12/11/2024 | Updated: 12/11/2024 | amallina.osman