By Xander Ledesma
The University of St. La Salle (USLS) in Bacolod City has inaugurated a new research center dedicated to the development of advanced materials that could benefit the sugar industry in Negros Occidental.
The PHP4.9 million Center of Aerogel Technology for Energy and Environment (CATEE) is the first of its kind in the province and was funded by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).
Aerogels, known for their lightweight and insulating properties, have the potential to revolutionize various industries, including environmental remediation and resource recovery. By integrating aerogel technology into sugar production processes, Negros Occidental, the country’s top sugar-producing province, can improve its sustainability and efficiency.
Dr. Mary Ann Torres Pandan, project leader of CATEE and a professor at USLS, emphasized the significant potential of advanced materials in addressing environmental challenges. She believes that these materials can contribute to a more sustainable future for Negros Occidental’s sugar industry.
DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. expressed his support for the initiative, stating that the exploration of advanced materials is crucial for the Philippines to become a global leader in the field. The DOST’s Institution Development Program provided the funding for the establishment of the state-of-the-art laboratory at USLS.