The Research and Postgraduate Centre congratulates Koh Qi Qi, Asst. Prof. Dr. Kua Yin Leng, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tan Khang Wei, Dr. Terri Lee Zhuan Ean and Cheng Wai Kit from the Department of New Energy Science and Engineering (NESE), School of Energy and Chemical Engineering for their recent publication in Sustainable Chemistry and Pharmacy, a Q1 journal with a latest impact factor of 6.000.
Koh Qi Qi, the first author of the article, is currently a master student in the Department of New Energy Science and Engineering. Asst. Prof. Dr. Kua Yin Leng is the corresponding author of the article.
This work is conducted in collaboration with Prof. Gan Suyin from the University of Nottingham Malaysia and Dr. Harrison Lau Lik Nang from Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB) through a Fundamental Research Grant Scheme (FRGS) project [grant number FRGS/1/2021/TK0/XMU/02/2] and Xiamen University Malaysia Research Fund (XMUMRF) [grant number XMUMRF/2019-C3/IENG/0010].
With the title “Sugar-based natural deep eutectic solvent (NADES): Physicochemical properties, antimicrobial activity, toxicity, biodegradability and potential use as green extraction media for phytonutrients”, this comprehensive exploration centers around the fascinating domain of sugar-based natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES). Delving into their complex physicochemical properties, the article unveils the unique characteristics that make these solvents stand out. Moreover, it meticulously examines their potent antimicrobial activity, shedding light on their potential to combat harmful microorganisms. Safety holds paramount importance, and this study diligently investigates the toxicity aspect, ensuring that these solvents align with eco-friendly principles. Biodegradability, a crucial criterion in today's environmentally conscious landscape, is also scrutinized, establishing the potential of sugar-based NADES as sustainable alternatives.
As a highlight, the article casts a spotlight on the remarkable utility of sugar-based NADES as green extraction media. These solvents exhibit a promising aptitude for extracting valuable phytonutrients from various sources, heralding a greener and more sustainable approach to nutrient extraction.
Free access until 30 September 2023: https://authors.elsevier.com/c/1hZkL8MwAmqGAW
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scp.2023.101218
Koh Qi Qi | “Above all, I wish to express my heartfelt appreciation to my esteemed mentor, Dr. Kua, whose unwavering support, remarkable patience, generous time investment, and insightful guidance have been pivotal in steering me towards the successful culmination of this research endeavour. Equally deserving of my gratitude are my fellow co-authors, whose collaborative assistance, seamless cooperation, and watchful oversight have enriched this scholarly pursuit. The collaborative experience with them has been nothing short of luminous. Furthermore, I extend my profound indebtedness to my cherished family and friends, whose unswerving encouragement has been a wellspring of motivation throughout this scholarly journey. I hope this review article can provide readers with valuable insights into the latest developments in the field, offering a comprehensive analysis that sheds light on emerging trends and potential impacts.” |
| Dr. Kua Yin Leng received her master degree (Hons) in Chemical Engineering from the University of Nottingham Malaysia in 2011, then worked as an Engineer at Shin-Etsu Chemical company in the electroplating & inorganic coating industry. In 2017, she obtained her PhD degree in Chemical Engineering from the same university (University of Nottingham Malaysia). Dr. Kua is currently an Assistant Professor in the School of Energy and Chemical Engineering at Xiamen University Malaysia. She is interested on the research of palm phytonutrients, natural deep eutectic solvents, green extraction technologies and food waste valorization. |
