Scientist wants Center For Polymers Available Across Philippines
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Loading... - Mendoza Amihan
- 19 May 2023
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A returning Filipino scientist has expressed his desire for the Center for Sustainable Polymers (CSP) to expand its reach beyond Region 10 and become a national center. Balik Scientist Robert Malaluan seeks the government's support in realizing this ambitious initiative.
Situated at the Mindanao State University - Iligan Institute of Technology, the CSP was established as a specialized facility for sustainable polymers with funding from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST). Its purpose is to serve the entire region.
During a public briefing, Malaluan highlighted the vast potential of polymers in the country, emphasizing their capacity to become highly valuable products. He specifically mentioned the CocoFlexSorb developed at the CSP, which aids in containing oil spills in Mindoro. This bio-based polyurethane foam exhibits exceptional oil absorption capabilities, capable of absorbing various types of oils such as vegetable oil, kerosene, engine oil, and bunker oil.
Arnold Lubguban, the program leader at CSP, also spoke at the briefing, emphasizing the cost-effectiveness of their innovation. According to Lubguban, the CocoFlexSorb is four to five times more affordable than existing petroleum-based absorbents. Furthermore, the coco foam can be reused up to 20 to 30 times.
Malaluan revealed ongoing efforts at the CSP to develop additional products. "Our focus extends beyond coconut oil; we are exploring other biopolymers and sustainable polymers to transform them into high-value products," he explained.
Lubguban further emphasized the abundance of natural resources in the country, including those derived from the sea, trees, and vegetable oils. He expressed the need for more laboratories and researchers to harness these resources and create products that contribute to the country's economy. Lubguban encouraged other universities to take advantage of the DOST's program, enabling them to establish their own small laboratories.
Malaluan highlighted the CSP's role as an advanced laboratory that facilitates testing for small and medium enterprises. Equipped with state-of-the-art tools, the facility enables the characterization of various materials.
