Nano-enabled detection and risk communication of microplastics in ASEAN food chains

Project Overview

Microplastics increasingly infiltrate food chains in Malaysia and Indonesia due to high plastic consumption. This project aims to develop a nano-enabled detection system utilizing surface functionalised nanomaterials, such as molecularly imprinted polymers or hydrophobic dyes, for rapid, sensitive, and selective identification of microplastics in food samples from ASEAN countries.

The project begins with sensor design, synthesis, and validation, followed by real-world application to samples from Malaysia and Indonesia. The second phase focuses on designing and testing culturally appropriate public risk communication strategies using digital media analytics and behavioural science across ASEAN countries.

What You Will Do

You will develop and functionalise nanomaterials to create sensitive sensors for detecting various plastic types in food. Validation phases include laboratory testing and application to real-world samples. Additionally, you will analyze digital media and behavioural data to design culturally tailored communication tools to raise public awareness and promote preventive actions.

Expected Outcomes

The project will deliver practical nano-enabled tools for microplastic detection in ASEAN food chains, scientifically based public awareness campaigns, and policy recommendations for cross-border plastic regulation and risk communication.

Why This Matters

Microplastic contamination poses a growing environmental and public health threat. Developing sensitive detection methods coupled with effective communication strategies can empower communities, improve food safety, influence public behaviour, and support regional policy development for sustainable plastic management in ASEAN.