Spent bleaching clay is a by-product of the palm oil refining industry. It is estimated that about 100 000 t or more of clay are utilized yearly in the refining process. In Malaysia, spent bleaching clay (SBC) is commonly disposed at landfills. However, such method of disposal has become increasingly unacceptable due to the potential environmental hazards and the rising cost of disposal. This has prompted urgency in innovating practical and economical ways in utilizing SBC. In addition to the palm oil industry, there is incentive to recover oil for technical purpose and re-use the clay for other absorptive purposes.

Main Research: Dr Cheah Kien Yoo and Dr Siew Wai Lin