A research team from the Chemical Engineering Study Program, Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Sumatera Utara (FT USU), has received a TALENTA 2025 grant to conduct research on utilizing empty oil palm fruit bunches and plastic waste as alternative energy feedstocks. The research is led by Prof. Dr. Ir. Renita Manurung, M.T., with Prof. Dr. Ir. Rosdanelli Hasibuan, M.T., and Ir. Sri Zahrani Dwi Mauliyah Parinduri, S.T., M.T. as team members.

The research, entitled “Microwave-Assisted Co-Pyrolysis of Empty Oil Palm Fruit Bunches and Plastic Waste as Fuel to Support a Circular Economy within the Green Economy Concept,” examines the potential of microwave-assisted pyrolysis technology to process these two types of waste into value-added products.

Through the co-pyrolysis process, empty oil palm fruit bunches and plastic waste are processed to produce several products, including liquid fuel or pyrolysis oil, gas, and biochar. Equipment previously developed by the research team is utilized to analyze the characteristics and quality of the products generated through the conversion process.

The research is intended to provide scientific references on the characteristics of products derived from the co-processing of biomass and plastic waste. The findings are expected to serve as a basis for further research on waste-to-energy conversion technologies while expanding studies on waste utilization within the framework of a circular economy.

In terms of sustainable development, the research supports SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy through the development of alternative approaches to utilizing waste as a fuel source. The use of pyrolysis technology and the development of waste conversion methods are also aligned with SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure, particularly in promoting technological innovation. Meanwhile, efforts to convert waste into value-added products support SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production through more responsible resource utilization and waste management.

Through this research, FT USU continues to strengthen its contribution to the development of science, research, and innovation in response to environmental challenges and energy needs. Strengthening research capacity and disseminating scientific findings are expected to open opportunities for the development of more applicable waste processing and alternative energy technologies that can benefit both society and industry.