1. Primary SDG: 12
2. Related SDGs (if any): 9
3. Category:
☐ Policy and Operations
☐ Teaching and Learning
☐ Outreach and Engagement
🗹 Research and Innovation
☐ Others (please specify): __________
4. Title: Turning Waste into Wealth: Gold Medal Recognition: RMUTS Researcher Wins Prestigious Award for Low-Carbon Rubber Flooring Innovation
5. Activity/Implementation Date: 3 to 5 June 2025
6. Responsible Unit: Faculty of Engineering
7. News Content:
Asst. Prof. Dr. Thanwit Naemsai from the Faculty of Engineering at Rajamangala University of Technology Srivijaya won a prestigious Gold Medal at the 8th International Invention and Innovation Show INTARG 2025. This international exhibition took place from 3 to 5 June 2025 in Katowice, Poland, showcasing cutting-edge global innovations. He received this high honor for his outstanding research project titled Low-Carbon Rubber Flooring for Elderly. This global recognition highlights the university's capability to produce world-class innovations that address critical environmental and social needs.
The research was specifically developed to minimize plastic reliance by substituting synthetic materials with high-quality natural rubber and recycled components. The study investigated the optimal design of double-layer rubber composites for eco-friendly laminates through a comprehensive methodology combining material selection, manufacturing processes, and structural optimization. The Box-Behnken design methodology was utilized to optimize the formulation, yielding an ideal solution with a blowing agent content of 12 parts per hundred rubber, wood sawdust content of 80 phr, and a processing temperature of 110 °C. The projected performance characteristics for this optimal composite formulation include a thermal conductivity of 0.023 W/mK, a peeling force of 0.728 kN, a puncture force of 97.84 N, and a shearing force of 0.344 kN. Furthermore, an analysis of dimensionless parameters identified a favorable thickness ratio of 0.5 for the double-layer laminate wall panels, corresponding to a total thickness of 10 mm.
This award-winning innovation strongly supports Rajamangala University of Technology Srivijaya's institutional policies and operational excellence in sustainable waste reduction and eco-friendly material management. By adopting a holistic design approach, the study demonstrates a viable strategy for developing high-performance and sustainable double-layer rubber composites tailored for green building solutions. The successful creation of this product aligns seamlessly with resource efficiency principles and modern environmental standards. Ultimately, the project reinforces the university's dedication to driving impactful scientific research that transforms waste into high-value green products for society.
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9. Related Links / Supporting Evidence:
10. Information Provider:
Asst.Prof.Dr.Worawitoo Meesook, Faculty of Science and Technology