This grant aims to address the critical need for effective water purification methods in Malaysia. Saxitoxin, a potent neurotoxin and potential biological warfare agent, poses significant risks to public health if released into water bodies. This project focuses on developing a novel magnetic bioadsorbent functionalized with humic acid, leveraging its high affinity for saxitoxin. The magnetic property allows for rapid and efficient removal of the toxin from contaminated water, ensuring safe and clean water supply. Additionally, the project includes a comprehensive sustainability assessment to evaluate the environmental impact, cost-effectiveness, and scalability of the proposed solution. The outcomes of this research will contribute to national security by safeguarding water resources and enhancing the resilience of Malaysia’s water management systems against biological threats.

This grant focuses on the synthesis and investigation of imidazolium-based polymeric ionic liquids (PILs) as innovative in-capillary coatings for capillary electrophoresis (CE). The project aims to develop a robust and selective CE method for the simultaneous analysis of quality parameter analytes in stingless bee honey, a valuable natural product with significant nutritional and medicinal properties. The imidazolium PILs will be synthesized and their interactions within the capillary environment will be studied to optimize coating efficiency and analyte separation. The novel in-capillary coatings are expected to enhance the selectivity, sensitivity, and reproducibility of CE, enabling the precise quantification of key quality indicators in stingless bee honey. This research not only contributes to the advancement of analytical techniques for honey analysis but also supports the broader goal of ensuring the quality and authenticity of this important natural product. The outcomes could have significant implications for food safety and quality control.

The grant focuses on the synthesis and mechanistic study of a calcium oxide-based catalyst designed to chelate toxic heavy metals in Perna viridis mussels, commonly known as green mussels. This research aims to address environmental concerns related to heavy metal contamination in aquatic ecosystems, particularly in marine life. The project explored the catalytic properties of calcium oxide in binding and neutralizing toxic heavy metals, potentially reducing their harmful effects on the mussels. By examining the reaction mechanisms and efficiency of the catalyst, the study contributed to developing sustainable and effective remediation strategies for polluted water bodies. The findings could have broader implications for environmental protection, offering insights into novel methods for heavy metal detoxification in marine organisms and potentially improving the safety and quality of seafood for human consumption.

The project focused on developing an Arduino-based photometric device for analyzing pollutants in environmental samples. This innovative, low-cost device utilized open-source hardware and software to measure the absorbance of specific pollutants, allowing for accurate and reliable quantification in water, soil, and air samples. The photometric device was designed for portability and ease of use, making it accessible for on-site analysis, particularly in remote or resource-limited areas. By integrating an Arduino microcontroller, the device automated data collection, processing, and transmission, enhancing the efficiency of environmental monitoring. The project involved optimizing the device’s design, calibrating it against standard laboratory equipment, and testing it across various environmental conditions. The outcome was a cost-effective tool that empowered communities, researchers, and regulatory bodies to monitor environmental pollution more effectively, contributing to improved decision-making and environmental protection efforts.

The grant focused on the successful synthesis of smart magnetic hollow porous molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) nanospheres, specifically designed for the molecular recognition and interaction with anti-cancer drugs. The research team meticulously engineered these nanospheres, integrating magnetic properties and hollow porous structures to enhance their selectivity and binding efficiency. The hollow porous design allowed for an increased surface area, optimizing the drug recognition process. The project demonstrated that the synthesized MIP nanospheres could selectively recognize and interact with specific anti-cancer drug molecules, offering a promising approach for targeted drug delivery systems. Extensive characterization techniques confirmed the nanospheres’ structural integrity, magnetic responsiveness, and high binding affinity towards the targeted drugs. This innovative approach not only advanced the understanding of molecular recognition mechanisms but also opened new avenues for developing more effective and precise drug delivery systems in cancer treatment.

The grant focused on the development and application of a novel magnetic composite for analyzing emerging contaminants in aqueous samples. The research utilized sporopollenin modified cyanopropyl-triethoxysilane to create the composite, which was designed to enhance the efficiency and selectivity of contaminant extraction. The study involved synthesizing the magnetic composite, characterizing its properties, and testing its performance in various water samples. By leveraging the unique properties of the modified composite, the project aimed to improve the detection and quantification of contaminants that are increasingly prevalent in environmental water sources. The outcomes were intended to provide a more effective analytical tool for environmental monitoring and contribute to better understanding and management of water quality issues related to emerging contaminants. The findings from this research have implications for both environmental science and public health.

This grant focused on assessing the environmental impact of the 2017 oil spill on the Pasir Gudang coast. The study systematically examined the levels of heavy metal contamination in mussels, sediments, and seawater, which are critical indicators of ecological and human health risks. Researchers collected samples from multiple sites along the affected coast, analyzed them for heavy metal concentrations, and compared the findings with established safety thresholds. The results provided a comprehensive understanding of the contamination’s extent and potential health implications for local communities, particularly those relying on seafood from the area. The findings were crucial for informing environmental policies and public health recommendations, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and remediation efforts in the region.

This grant aimed to enhance the detection and analysis of endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in aqueous environments. This research focused on developing an innovative electrokinetic preconcentration technique, which utilized advanced electrochemical methods to concentrate trace levels of EDCs directly within the analytical system. By integrating this supercharging approach, the project sought to improve the sensitivity and accuracy of water analysis, addressing critical environmental and health concerns associated with EDC contamination. The study involved optimizing electrokinetic conditions, evaluating the efficiency of the preconcentration process, and applying the method to real water samples. The results demonstrated significant improvements in the detection limits and analytical performance, contributing valuable insights to the field of environmental chemistry and offering practical solutions for monitoring water quality.