FGV collaborates with Cambridge University scientists

Business & Markets 2013
Written by Esther Lee of theedgemalaysia.com
Friday, 01 November 2013 10:15
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KUALA LUMPUR: Felda Global Ventures Holdings Bhd (FGV) is collaborating
with scientists from Cambridge University to pioneer and produce high-grade
carbon nanotubes (CNT) and graphene from by-products of crude palm oil
(CPO) and other hydrocarbons.
High-grade CNT and graphene will be produced using the state-of-the-art and
newly developed nano-systems technology developed by Cambridge
Nanosystems Ltd, a spin-off of the respected Cambridge University.
High-grade CNT and graphene can be potentially used in a new generation of
electronic devices that run faster while using less energy. They also have the
potential to be used in next-generation communications as well as underwater
cables.
FGV and Cambridge Nanosystems signed a non-binding memorandum of
understanding (MoU) in London yesterday. Under the MoU, FGV will provide
raw materials for the production of CNT and graphene, while Cambridge
Nanosystems will provide proprietary technology to produce a series of CNT
using nano-systems technology.
The MoU also proposes the acquisition of 70% of the issued share capital of
Cambridge Nanosystems, a company incorporated in the UK, by FGV’s wholly
owned subsidiary, Felda Global Ventures Downstream Sdn Bhd.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak witnessed the signing of the MoU. FGV
group president and CEO Mohd Emir Mavani Abdullah signed on behalf of the
company, while Cambridge Nanosystems was represented by its chairman Dr
Krzysztof Koizol.
Mohd Emir said in a statement that the expanding demand for high-grade CNT and graphene globally in industries such as automotive,
aerospace and consumer products provides a ready market for the company.
“Moving forward, innovation will remain our key emphasis. FGV will further explore various opportunities for smart partnerships in our
continuous commitment to sustainable business through innovative palm-based products, which is not only focusing on food,” said Mohd
Emir.
FGV, part of the Felda group, is the world’s largest palm oil operator with about 950,000ha of land. In 2012, Felda group produced 3.3
million tonnes of CPO, which accounted for 8% of the world’s CPO production.
On Monday, FGV announced that shareholders of Koperasi Permodalan Felda Malaysia Bhd had approved the sale of the cooperative’s
51% stake in Felda Holdings Bhd to FGV for RM2.2 billion.
This will result in FGV owning 100% of Felda Holdings, which will allow the former to attain a full value chain in the palm oil manufacturing
and production process.
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FGV collaborates with Cambridge University scientists [You must be registered and logged in to see this link.]
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