Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Hironaga Akita, Mohd Zulkhairi Mohd Yusoff, Shinji Fujimoto
Summary: The study focused on preparing hydrolysate from OPEFB through hydrothermal treatment, with hemicellulose yield decreasing from 153 mg/g-OPEFB to 27.5 mg/g-OPEFB as the temperature increased from 180 to 200 degrees C. The highest glucose yield was obtained from the enzyme-treated solid phase after hydrothermal treatment at 200 degrees C.
FERMENTATION-BASEL
(2021)
Article
Microbiology
Tat-Ming Lo, In Young Hwang, Han-Saem Cho, Raissa Eka Fedora, Si Hui Chng, Won Jae Choi, Matthew Wook Chang
Summary: This study successfully engineered microbial hosts to directly utilize OPEFB lignin mixtures to produce commodity chemicals, demonstrating a simple one-pot biosynthesis approach that utilizes derivatives of agricultural waste.
FRONTIERS IN MICROBIOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Kinanthi Mondylaksita, Jorge A. Ferreira, Wiratni Budhijanto, Claes Niklasson, Mohammad J. Taherzadeh, Ria Millati
Summary: The study demonstrates that high yields of volatile fatty acids can be obtained through fermentation of oil palm empty fruit bunch pretreatment products under conditions that inhibit methanogenesis, especially in a medium containing a mixture of glucan-rich and hemicellulosic compounds-rich fractions.
FERMENTATION-BASEL
(2021)
Article
Engineering, Environmental
Libertus Darus, Susana Susana, Halasan Sihombing, Amaliyah Rohsari Indah Utami, Maizirwan Mel
Summary: Utilizing PS pretreatment effectively removes lignin and hemicellulose from OPEFB, increasing cellulose content and enhancing enzymatic digestibility, providing a potential pathway towards economically feasible bioethanol production.
CHEMICAL ENGINEERING JOURNAL
(2022)
Article
Polymer Science
Mohd Zaim Jaafar, Farah Fazlina Mohd Ridzuan, Mohamad Haafiz Mohamad Kassim, Falah Abu
Summary: All-cellulose composite (ACC) films were successfully fabricated using oil palm empty fruit bunches (OPEFBs) through the selective dissolution of cellulose fibers. The properties of the ACC films were assessed based on the dissolution time. The results showed improved interfacial adhesion and mechanical properties, decreased crystallite size and degree of crystallinity, and changing failure behavior of the film composite.
Article
Materials Science, Paper & Wood
Jianlei Yang, Yern Chee Ching, Cheng Hock Chuah, Nguyen Dai Hai, Ramesh Singh, Abidi Rahima Md Nor
Summary: The present paper investigates the preparation and characterization of starch-based bioplastic composites reinforced by treated oil palm empty fruit bunch fibers and citric acid. The results show that the addition of fibers and citric acid significantly affects the mechanical, thermal, and water resistance properties of the composites.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Cristina E. Almeida-Naranjo, Vladimir Valle, Alex Aguilar, Francisco Cadena, Jeronimo Kreiker, Belen Raggiotti
Summary: The use of oil palm wastes for sustainable polymer matrix composites has gained interest in recent years. This study evaluated the water absorption behavior of acrylic thermoplastic matrix composites reinforced with oil palm empty fruit bunch (OPEFB) and oil palm kernel shell (OPKS) through immersion test. The results showed that water absorption capacity decreased at higher processing temperatures and larger particle sizes. The type of reinforcement also influenced water absorption and diffusivity. OPKS/acrylic and OPEFB/acrylic composites had a maximum absorption of 77% and 86%, with diffusivities of 7.3 x 10(-9) and 15.2 x 10(-9) m(2)/min, respectively. Experimental evidence suggested a non-Fickian absorption mechanism for the composites.
Article
Engineering, Chemical
Izzudin Ibrahim, Toshiki Tsubota, Mohd Ali Hassan, Yoshito Andou
Summary: The study focused on improving the surface functionalities of biochar through hydrothermal functionalization, which successfully enhanced its adsorption performance without affecting its surface area value. The results suggest a promising technology for industrial implementation, especially in palm oil mills.
Article
Agricultural Engineering
Moushmi S. Chakraborty, Arvind M. Lali
Summary: This study utilized a two-step acid-alkali treatment to extract lignin from empty palm fruit bunch and break it down into monomers, achieving an 80% conversion rate. Through fractionation, 37% of the overall lignin was obtained as monomeric compounds.
INDUSTRIAL CROPS AND PRODUCTS
(2021)
Article
Materials Science, Multidisciplinary
Nurul Hanisah Mohd, Hanieh Kargazadeh, Manabu Miyamoto, Shigeyuki Uemiya, Nabhan Sharer, Azizah Baharum, Teh Lee Peng, Ishak Ahmad, Mohd Ambar Yarmo, Rizafizah Othaman
Summary: In this study, solid adsorbents were modified with aminating agents to improve CO2 capture efficiency amid severe climate change. The results showed that NCC modified with aminosilanes of different chain lengths and nitrogen content prior to aerogel fabrication led to enhanced pore formation, surface area, and CO2 sorption capacity. The aerogel modified with the shortest chain length aminosilane exhibited higher CO2 sorption, while the aerogel grafted with the intermediate chain length aminosilane demonstrated the best surface area properties and thermal stability.
JOURNAL OF MATERIALS RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY-JMR&T
(2021)
Article
Materials Science, Paper & Wood
Nursia Hassan, Tan Li Wen, Amirah Khairina Khairil Anwar, Ani Idris
Summary: The research showed that using ferric chloride ionic solution to pretreat oil palm empty fruit bunch with microwave irradiation can significantly increase the total reducing sugar yield. The optimal pretreatment conditions were found to be 10 minutes, 100 degrees Celsius, and 10% ferric chloride concentration. This pretreatment method is a promising alternative to replace other pretreatment methods.
Article
Materials Science, Composites
Mohd Khairul Faizi Abdul Rahman, Mohd Shukry Abdul Majid, Shahriman Abu Bakar, Shamsul Bahri Md Tamrin, Haris Ahmad Israr Ahmad, Yee Guan Ng, Zuradzman Mohamad Razlan
Summary: In this study, the energy absorption characteristics of oil palm empty fruit bunch (OPEFB)-reinforced composites were investigated using a low-velocity impact test. Two sets of specimens with different fiber/epoxy fractions (30:70 and 40:60) were analyzed, with one set treated with a 3% NaOH solution. The results showed that the untreated specimens absorbed more energy but suffered severe damage compared to the treated specimens, indicating that the treatment improved the interlocking mechanism and energy dissipation. Additionally, composites with a higher fiber loading exhibited slightly better energy absorption.
JOURNAL OF REINFORCED PLASTICS AND COMPOSITES
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Tunsuda Suparanon, Salinee Kaewchuy, Neeranuch Phusunti, Voravadee Suchaiya, Worasak Phetwarotai
Summary: Microcrystalline cellulose (MCC) extracted from oil palm empty fruit bunch (OPEFB) waste by integrated chemical treatments was used as an additive for polylactide (PLA) composites. The addition of MCC improved the impact strength and flame retardancy of the composites, changing their failure behavior from brittle to ductile. The combination of MCC and tricresyl phosphate (TCP) resulted in outstanding enhancement of impact toughness and flame retardancy. Potential applications of the PLA composites include bio, circular, and green economies, as well as the electronics industry.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL MACROMOLECULES
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Tunsuda Suparanon, Neeranuch Phusunti, Worasak Phetwarotai
Summary: Plastic garbage is a major environmental issue that affects humans, animals, and their surroundings. The use of biodegradable polymers as substitutes for traditional plastics is an effective solution to address this problem. This study focuses on the chemical modification of microcrystalline cellulose derived from oil palm empty fruit bunch waste and its application as a bio-filler in polylactide composites. The addition of tricresyl phosphate as a plasticizer and flame retardant enhances the toughness and flame inhibition of the composites. The findings suggest that this approach can effectively improve the properties of PLA composites.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL MACROMOLECULES
(2023)
Article
Energy & Fuels
Heri Rustamaji, Tirto Prakoso, Hary Devianto, Pramujo Widiatmoko, Wibawa Hendra Saputera
Summary: This study synthesized urea nitrogenated activated carbon (N-ACU) from oil palm empty fruit bunches and investigated its performance as a supercapacitor electrode. The results showed that the urea to hydrochar impregnation ratio affected the characteristics of N-ACU and the performance of supercapacitors. Urea nitrogenated treatment on activated carbon reduced resistance and maintained the stability of the supercapacitor. This study suggests that synthesizing nitrogenated activated carbon from biomass waste is a promising method for producing electrode materials.
JOURNAL OF ENERGY STORAGE
(2022)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Zuhair Jamain, Melati Khairuddean, Tay Guan-Seng
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Zuhair Jamain, Melati Khairuddean, Tay Guan-Seng
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2020)
Review
Orthopedics
James Randolph Onggo, Mithun Nambiar, Jason Derry Onggo, Guan Tay, Parminder J. Singh, Sina Babazadeh
JOURNAL OF HIP PRESERVATION SURGERY
(2020)
Article
Polymer Science
Qana A. Alsulami, Soha M. Albukhari, Mahmoud A. Hussein, G. S. Tay, H. D. Rozman
POLYMER-PLASTICS TECHNOLOGY AND MATERIALS
(2020)
Article
Polymer Science
Zuhair Jamain, Melati Khairuddean, Tay Guan-Seng, Abu Bakar Abd Rahman
Summary: In this study, a series of phosphazene compounds with azo linking units were successfully synthesized via a series of reactions. These compounds exhibited liquid crystal properties, with some showing promising fire retardant performance when incorporated into polyester resin.
MACROMOLECULAR RESEARCH
(2021)
Article
Polymer Science
Pei Ru Sua, Abubakar Azizah, Abd Aziz Azniwati, Hj. Din Rozman, Guan Seng Tay
Summary: By incorporating VTMS into the formulation, the adhesion strength of the coating films was enhanced, along with improvements in plasticity and thermal stability. Additionally, VTMS played a crucial role in enhancing the flame-retardant properties of the coated wood.
POLYMERS FOR ADVANCED TECHNOLOGIES
(2021)
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Nur Aisyah Miza Ahmad Tamizi, Shayfull Zamree Abd Rahim, Abdellah El-hadj Abdellah, Mohd Mustafa Al Bakri Abdullah, Marcin Nabialek, Jerzy J. Wyslocki, Bartlomiej Jez, Pawel Palutkiewicz, Rozyanty Abdul Rahman, Mohd Nasir Mat Saad, Mohd Fathullah Ghazli
Summary: This study explores the use of recycled waste materials in producing new products with minimal defects through simulation analysis and optimization methods. The optimal ratio of recycled PC material was found to be R30%, followed by R40% and R50%, with packing pressure identified as the most influential processing parameter contributing to warpage defect.
Article
Chemistry, Physical
Rozyanty Rahman, Syed Zhafer Firdaus Syed Putra, Shayfull Zamree Abd Rahim, Irwana Nainggolan, Bartlomiej Jez, Marcin Nabialek, Luqman Musa, Andrei Victor Sandu, Petrica Vizureanu, Mohd Mustafa Al Bakri Abdullah, Dariusz Kwiatkowski, Izabela Wnuk
Summary: This study investigated the mechanical properties and fiber-to-matrix interfacial adhesion of kenaf bast fiber hybrid composites. The research found that MMA-esterification treatment can improve the tensile strength and adhesion of the composites.
Review
Polymer Science
Jet Yin Boey, Lydia Mohamad, Yong Sen Khok, Guan Seng Tay, Siti Baidurah
Summary: The overconsumption and improper handling of plastic result in environmental issues, while biopolymers like PHA and PLA are considered alternative options. These biopolymers show potential in food packaging, but further improvements are needed to enhance their applicability.
Review
Chemistry, Physical
Nurul Hidayah Mohamad Huzaim, Shayfull Zamree Abd Rahim, Luqman Musa, Abdellah El-hadj Abdellah, Mohd Mustafa Al Bakri Abdullah, Allan Rennie, Rozyanti Rahman, Sebastian Garus, Katarzyna Bloch, Andrei Victor Sandu, Petrica Vizureanu, Marcin Nabialek
Summary: Rapid tooling and additive manufacturing are widely used in the industry, meeting the increasing demand for low-cost products and improving product quality. The development of these technologies allows for testing performance and overcoming surface defects. The implementation of rapid heating cycle molding injection methods further enhances product quality and production efficiency.
Review
Materials Science, Composites
Noorfarisya Izma Jeffri, Nurul M. R. Fazita, Cheu Peng Leh, Rokiah Hashim, Mohamad M. K. Haafiz, Mazlan Ibrahim, Guan Seng Tay, Takamitsu Arai, Kumar Sudesh, Akihiko Kosugi
Summary: This article discusses the potential of additive manufacturing (AM) and the application of polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) and nanocellulose in AM. Studies have found that the drawbacks of PHA can be overcome by blending it with other polymers, and the advantages of using nanocellulose as a reinforcing material are highlighted. However, there are limitations in the manufacturing and application of PHA, including high cost and processing difficulties.
POLYMER COMPOSITES
(2023)
Review
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Raed H. Althomali, Khalid A. Alamry, Mahmoud A. Hussein, Guan S. Tay
Summary: Biopolymers with biodegradable and biocompatible characteristics have gained significant interest for their applications in various fields, including energy production, wastewater treatment, sensor development, and biomedical sciences. This review summarizes the important applications and mechanistic insights of biopolymers, highlighting their eco-friendly nature, low cost, and high adsorption capacity.
Review
Materials Science, Characterization & Testing
Jet Yin Boey, Siti Baidurah Yusoff, Guan Seng Tay
Summary: This article reviews environmentally friendly methods for surface treatment of fibers, such as introducing bacterial nanocellulose, pre-treatment with bacterial cellulase, fungal treatment, and enzymatic treatments. Studies have shown that fibers that undergo biological modifications have better fiber-matrix interfacial adhesion and stronger mechanical bonding.
POLYMERS & POLYMER COMPOSITES
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Zuhair Jamain, Melati Khairuddean, Tay Guan-Seng
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
W. N. S. Mohd Luthfi, H. Alias, G. S. Tay, C. K. Lee
BIOCATALYSIS AND AGRICULTURAL BIOTECHNOLOGY
(2020)
