SYNOPSIS   

Biocomposites are being developed as an environmentally friendly alternative to petroleum-based plastics, which contribute to pollution and environmental problems. Natural fibres and biopolymers are renewable, biodegradable, and can reduce dependence on petroleum resources. In Malaysia, materials such as kenaf, oil palm, banana stem, coconut shell, coir, roselle, sugar palm, and rice husk are used as reinforcement or fillers in composites. The lecture focuses on the characterization, fabrication, product development, applications, and mass production of biocomposites, with emphasis on commercialization and the circular economy.


BIODATA OF SPEAKER

Prof. Dr. Mohd Sapuan is a highly accomplished researcher and academic in the fields of engineering, materials science, and natural fibre composites. He is affiliated with Universiti Putra Malaysia and holds visiting and adjunct professorships in Indonesia and Pakistan. He has qualifications in Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Design, and Material Engineering. His research focuses mainly on sustainable materials, biocomposites, and natural fibre composites.

He has published over 2,000 scientific works, supervised many postgraduate students, and served as an editor for numerous international journals. He has also received many prestigious national and international awards for his contributions to research and engineering, and has achieved an h-index of 135 with more than 67,000 citations. Overall, Prof. Dr. Mohd Sapuan is widely recognized for his significant contributions to sustainable materials research and engineering.