Biosurfacents are natural surfactants derived from microbial origin containing mostly sugar and fatty acid moieties. They have higher biodegradability, lower toxicity and excellent bioogical activities than their synthetic counterpats. In addition, biosurfactants have better properties with respectto higher foarming capacity and activity at extreme temperatures, pH levels and salinity than the synthetic surfactants which are mostly derived from petroleum. Palm -based sophorolipds (SL) are a group of biosurfactants produced by non-pathogenic yeast, such as Cadina bombicola, Yarrawia lipolytica, C. bogoriensis. The anti-bacterial property enabled SL to be used in personal care products ssuch as deodorants.

Main Research: Dr Abdul Rashid Mohd Yatim