SawitEcoFlex
Currently, the global rubber industry is heavily dependent on petroleum-based rubber processing oils, particularly aromatic oils [e.g., distillate aromatic extract (DAE) and treated distillate aromatic extract (TDAE)], which are associated with polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), compounds linked to carcinogenic risks have raised increasing regulatory and environmental concerns (Zhang et al., 2025). Concurrently, the growing availability of palm-based resources and the rising demand for sustainable rubber solutions highlight the need for innovative, highperformance alternatives (Sovtić et al., 2020). Accordingly, there is a clear need for safe and more sustainable rubber processing oils (RPOs) that can replace conventional petroleum-based RPOs without compromising performance. Such alternatives must not only meet stringent processing and mechanical requirements but align with environmental regulations while advancing the value proposition of palm-based materials (Hayichelaeh & Boonkerd, 2023).
Main researcher: Ts. Dr. Kosheela Devi Poo Palam
E-mail: kosheela@mpob.gov.my