The MRC (Malaysian Rubber Council) has recently witnessed the inking of an MoU (memorandum of understanding) between a well-known Malaysian-owned company; Levidian Nanosystem Ltd; and Cranfield University in Bedford, United Kingdom.

In a press release, Nor Hizwan Ahmad, MRC chief executive officer, disclosed that this would be the first technology that converts harmful methane gas into ecologically friendly graphene, which, when combined with natural rubber, results in a material that is more durable and sustainable.

Ahmad further highlighted that this collaboration has indirectly urged the development of rubber technology so that innovation can be leveraged in redefining the future of rubber applications.

According to Ahmad, being a leader in rubber technology will assist Malaysia in gaining profits via the commercialization of high-performance rubber products, besides opening new markets, and reinforcing the global value chain of Malaysia’s rubber industry.

It is also reported that with the abundance of rubber resources, the firm will be more progressive toward limitless advancements, including plantations and aircraft.

Ahmad also added that the application could be carried out broadly to industries comprising earth resources and the aerospace environment by developing contemporary rubber materials formulated through the infusion of graphene and latex.

Reportedly, Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob, in July 2021, inaugurated this initiative at the MIACES (Malaysia International Agricommodity Expo & Summit) 2022 and received strong guidance and support from Datuk Zuraida Kamaruddin, the Minister of Plantation Industries & Commodities.

Previously, in September, MRC hosted the Industry Consultation 2022, an event where rubber industry candidates from different fields offered valuable feedback and suggestions on MRC’s direction and the way ahead to support the robust expansion of the rubber industry.

MRC is expected to partake in EVM Asia Expo 2022, the region’s leading Electric Vehicle Exhibition, scheduled to be held from September 27 – 29. The event will be hosted by MIGHT (Malaysia Industry-Government Group for High Technology) and backed by MARii (Malaysia Automotive Robotics and IoT Institute).

Source credit - https://www.theborneopost.com/2022/09/23/malaysian-company-inks-mou-with-uk-partners-on-rubber-technology-innovation/