In Malaysia, the construction scene is witnessing a notable shift driven by abundant natural resources. The series focuses on the emergence of wood plastic composite (WPC) as a game-changing construction material.
Dr Loh Yueh Feng, Deputy Director (R&D) of the Fibre and Biocomposite Centre (FIDEC) in Malaysian Timber Industry Board (MTIB), shared groundbreaking insights at the International Construction Transformation Conference (ICTC) 2023 in Kuala Lumpur, shedding light on Malaysia’s transformative construction scene. Here, the timber industry is undergoing a notable shift propelled by abundant natural resources.
Dr Loh explains the diverse range of alternative raw materials propelling the growth of Wood Plastic Composite (WPC) in construction. She said: “Malaysia utilises resources like oil palm trunks, timber industry by-products such as empty fruit bunches and wood residues, as well as bamboo, coconut stems, and rice husks to pioneer sustainable construction practices.
WPC, composed of 70% biomass and 30% thermoplastic, takes centre stage in this green revolution. Dr Loh highlights its eco-friendly attributes, positioning it as a key player in sustainable construction. “Malaysia, a significant player in the global timber market, is leveraging this success to drive growth in the WPC market. As the construction sector increasingly favours sustainable alternatives, WPC’s popularity is set to rise.”
Consumers and forward-thinking architects are actively joining this environmental movement, embracing WPC as a responsible and eco-friendly choice. Its composition, mainly sourced from recycled materials, aligns with the global commitment to environmentally conscious practices.
The next segment will delve into the practical benefits of WPC. We will explore its lasting impact on construction practices, highlighting its potential to usher in a cost-effective era and reshape the foundations of the building industry.
Article 2: The Advantages of Wood Plastic Composite in Construction
Article 3: Metal-Reinforced Wood Plastic Composite: Structural Leap in Construction
