SEPTEMBER-OCTOBER . 2023 | @ green

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UTM embarks on a research journey with JTS Group for biochar slow-release fertiliser

BY FATIHAH MANAF

According to the Chair , Resource Sustainability Research Alliance and Fellow , Process Systems Engineering Centre ( PROSPECT ), UTM , Prof Ir Dr Haslenda Hashim , this synergistic effort between UTM and JTS marks just the beginning of their research journey , with the potential for further collaborative projects in the future .

“ Our networking with JTS began last year , and it ’ s been a fascinating journey because we share common interests , particularly our deep concern about climate change . One of the primary motivations for our venture into biochar research is to address climate change-related issues ,” said Haslenda .

“ We work closely with JTS . At UTM , we conduct experimental work on biochar as a slow-release fertiliser containing a high concentration of macro and micronutrients for soil improvement . In this research , UTM ’ s role is synthesising biochar slow-release fertiliser , designing the granulation process , conducting characterisations , and performing performance analysis . The reason and the benefit of working with JTS are because , at UTM , we focus more on research , while companies like JTS are experts in commercialisation .”

BRINGING REAL-WORLD IMPACT

Haslenda expressed her team ’ s desire to transition their research from the laboratory to the industry . She highlighted the valuable aspect of industry-academia collaboration , which opens up possibilities for their research to reach the market and have a realworld impact .

She shared that at UTM , they have a strategic initiative called Consortium of Academia , Industry , Government , and Society for Synergistic Transformation ( AIMS4STAR ) as a platform to provide

Prof . Ir . Dr Haslenda Hashim . solutions to common problems faced by the industry via the quadruple helix innovation model .

“ In the university , our primary focus is on research . However , if we aim to commercialise our work , it would be beneficial to collaborate with the industry . Industries possess valuable insights and can provide input based on market demands and various perspectives on marketing strategies . They understand the industry ’ s challenges , making the research we conduct industry-driven and potentially suitable for commercialisation .”

BIOCHAR SLOW-RELEASE FERTILISER

Haslenda said one of the primary motivations for engaging in this research with JTS was to address the pressing issue of climate change . Their study focuses on biochar slow-release fertiliser , converting empty fruit branches , a waste product in the palm oil industry , into a valuable fertiliser rich in macro and micronutrients for soil improvement . This approach addresses industrial waste challenges and contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions .

“ If you look at the inorganic fertiliser , it can contaminate groundwater and impact soil nutrients . On the other hand , organic fertiliser , such as the slow-release fertiliser derived from empty fruit bunches , can enhance soil texture , prolong water retention , and often necessitates fewer applications than inorganic fertilisers .

“ This reduction in usage results in decreased emissions of CO2 , ammonia , and the significantly more harmful nitrous oxide , which is 298 times more harmful than CO2 . It is how slow-release fertilisers can effectively address environmental challenges and promote sustainability ,” she explained .

Haslenda emphasised that their partnership with JTS has been highly

THE PROCESS Systems Engineering Centre ( PROSPECT ) is one of the research centres at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia , operating within the Faculty of Chemical and Energy Engineering ( FKT ).

In the face of today ’ s process engineering challenges , marked by unstable energy prices in the market and mounting concerns about climate change , PROSPECT has broadened its area of expertise . It now encompasses process systems and a more comprehensive range

During a visit to Taiyo Biomass , a company under JTS Group .

UTM team ' s visit to JTS Group ' s facilities in Pasir Gudang , Johor .

beneficial . The collaboration reduces the need for JTS to establish its laboratory by gaining access to the university ’ s lab facilities . Furthermore , the UTM team gains valuable input and insights from industrial players like JTS , offering different perspectives . She stressed the importance of this unique combination and its significance for the project ’ s future success . – @ Green

of subjects , including sustainability , renewable energy , waste-to-wealth initiatives , and carbon emission reduction and mitigation across various sectors .

PROSPECT is consistently dedicated to innovating solutions for developing process systems that are cleaner , safer , more energy-efficient , cost-effective , and sustainable . This mission aligns with PROSPECT ’ s “ Sustainability Engineering ” tagline , which reflects its fundamental philosophy and expertise in creating and engineering sustainable

The UTM team .

products , process systems , resource management , and planning .

Over the years , PROSPECT has served the industry , government ministries , and communities by offering its expertise in the form of consultations , research , and innovation in resource conservation , energy digitalisation , renewable energy systems , waste-to-wealth practices , and circular economy strategies . These efforts are to support industrial sectors to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions .