Embedded Files
Get to Know the Activities
Get to Know the Activities
Publication
Publication
Excited to announce our latest publication on crystallization behavior of recycled PET. In this paper we investigate the effect of 3D printing parameters on cooling rate, crystallinity, and tensile properties of recycled polyethylene terephthalate
Publication
Publication
Excited to announce our latest publication on crystallization behavior of recycled semi-crystalline polymers in 3D Printing.
In this review, we provide a comprehensive analysis of how crystallization affects the performance of recycled polymers in 3D printing, with a focus on rPET, rPP, and rHDPE. We also examine the effects of additives, printing parameters, multiple recycling cycles, and thermal treatments on crystallinity and mechanical performance, while highlighting key challenges and future opportunities in this field.
Publication
Publication
Excited to share our latest research on the 3D printability of post-industrial recycled polypropylene (rPP)!
In this work, we explore how real-time infrared imaging can be used to predict and optimize printing parameters. Through in-situ thermal analysis, we establish process–structure–property relationships critical to improving the performance of recycled semicrystalline polymers.
This study represents an important step toward more sustainable additive manufacturing.
International Conference on Advanced Materials, Mechanical Engineering, and Manufacturing (AMMEM2025)
International Conference on Advanced Materials, Mechanical Engineering, and Manufacturing (AMMEM2025)
I was honored to present CPW project at the International Conference on Advanced Materials, Mechanical Engineering, and Manufacturing (AMMEM2025), held in Langkawi Island, Malaysia last 19–21 November 2025. This event brought together researchers from across the globe, including Australia, Japan, China, Kazakhstan, Saudi Arabia, India, and more, for a rich exchange of ideas and innovations in materials science and engineering.
The conference featured insightful keynote speeches from leading experts Prof. John Mo, Prof. Ir. Dr. Jamaluddin Mahmud, and Prof Libin Niu.
Publication in THINK Magazine
Publication in THINK Magazine
I’m thrilled to share that our CPW project has been featured in the latest issue of THINK Magazine. Our work focuses on plastic waste through innovative 3D printing solutions that support sustainable practices and circular economy approaches. A huge thank you to Horizon Europe and the European Commission for the opportunity and support that made this project possible.
thinkmagazine.mt/giving-plastic-waste-a-second-life-through-3d-printing/
Methodology
Methodology
Figure shows the schematic diagram of the experimental procedure and setup utilized in CPW project for post-consumer and post-industrial plastic waste. Different raw materials possess different procedures. The drying temperature used also depends on the glass transition temperature of plastic waste.
Exploration of Multiple Extruder 3D Printing
Exploration of Multiple Extruder 3D Printing
Had experience in a one-day training on 3D printing and additive manufacturing. This has been a new journey for me. This advanced technology using the ToolChanger 3D printer offers significant advantages over common 3D printers and resin 3D printers. It can fabricate a product consisting of more parts with multiple colors and materials in a single print. Additionally, it allows for more complex designs and efficiently reduces downtime and production streamlines due to no post-processing such as the assembling process. This new knowledge of machine learning will be an advantage to my skills, and I’m excited to explore its capabilities further. Thanks to Polymer Engineering Group for making this opportunity possible!
DSC Training
DSC Training
Have completed a Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) training session with Prof. Arif Rochman at the Polymer Engineering Research & Innovation laboratory at UM, an expert in thermal analysis for plastic materials. The session provided in-depth insights into how to prepare a sample, characterize and analyze the results. Looking forward to integrating these new skills into my projects! It’s exciting, I can operate the machine myself.
Brabender twin-screw extruder Training
Enhance my skills on Brabender twin-screw extruder and compounder from Anton Paar. The machine with multiple hoppers and side feeders offers incredible versatility for processing polymer blends and advanced composites. Gaining practical experience, skill and knowledge with this machine was invaluable for understanding the nuances of polymer processing.
Training on Raman Spectroscopy and ATR-IR Spectroscopy analysis
Training on Raman Spectroscopy and ATR-IR Spectroscopy analysis at the Department of Metallurgy and Materials Engineering, University of Malta. The session was highly insightful, providing theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience with these analytical techniques.
A huge thank you to Daniel A Vella, an expert in IR spectroscopy, for sharing his deep knowledge and expertise, and to Adrian Ionut Cadis for his valuable assistance throughout the training on Raman Spectroscopy. This training has undoubtedly enhanced my understanding of spectroscopy techniques, and I look forward to applying these skills to my research project. MSCA allows me to explore more technologies, skills and strengthen my research networks.
18th International Conference on Advanced Computational Engineering and Experimenting (ACEX2025)
Department of Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering proudly represented the University of Malta at the 18th International Conference on Advanced Computational Engineering and Experimenting (ACEX2025) in Naples, Italy! This international platform was a fantastic opportunity to showcase Malta's advancements in additive manufacturing. The confferece was lead by Professor Arif Rochman a member of the scientific committee for Additive Manufacturing. In this conference Dr. Zunaida Zakaria a post-doctoral researcher, share her work on optimizing 3D printing parameters for recycled polymers using in-situ thermal analysis.
Mini desktop injection molding machine
Setup a new mini desktop injection molding machine in the Polymer Engineering lab at the Department of Industrial & Manufacturing Engineering, UM. It took a few focused days alongside our dedicated technicians to commission the machine, run initial tests, troubleshoot issues, and finally get it operating. Successfully run for PP, post-consumer PP, and recycled PET composites for undergraduate students. Huge thanks to John, Josef, and our supplier (working across a 7-hour time difference!) for their support throughout the process.
In-situ Analysis of Thermal Behavior during 3D Printing
In-situ Analysis of Thermal Behavior during 3D Printing
This is how we monitor and capture the thermal behaviour during 3D printing. The data acquisition was processed using Optris PIX connect, and the temperature-time profile was plotted, and the cooling rate was calculated from the data plotted.
WhatsApp Video 2026-06-08 at 09.01.47.mp4
School Visit
Polymer Engineering Lab had a school visit from few school around Msida. In this visit, the students have been exposed to recycling of plastic waste, giving awareness on plastic recycling, and how we can use the 3D printing concept to recycle plastic waste.
Science in the City
Science in the City
It was a fantastic experience to showcase our additive manufacturing projects, REO3D (Xjenza Malta REP project) and CPW (EU MSCA postdoctoral research), at the Science in the City Malta in Valletta. The Polymer Engineering Research and Innovation at UM (PERIUM) has advanced their 3D printer to successfully create dense parts from very soft materials, which is definitely beyond the capability of traditional filament-based 3D printing (FFF or FDM). 3D printed balloons were printed as one of the demonstrators at our stand. PERIUM was represented by Prof.Arif Rochman, Dr. Zunaida Zakaria, Ms Ruth Psaila Brancaleone, Ms Racquel Marie Cachia, and Mr Albert
Rotational Rheometer Training
Setup a new mini desktop injection molding machine in the Polymer Engineering lab at the Department of Industrial & Manufacturing Engineering, UM. It took a few focused days alongside our dedicated technicians to commission the machine, run initial tests, troubleshoot issues, and finally get it operating. Successfully run for PP, post-consumer PP, and recycled PET composites for undergraduate students. Huge thanks to John, Josef, and our supplier (working across a 7-hour time difference!) for their support throughout the process.
PF2MT Masterclass
PF2MT Masterclass
Had such a great opportunity to be a panelist at the PF2MT Masterclass arranged by The Malta Council for Science and Technology (MCST). I had the pleasure sharing of my project journey, the challenges in proposal writing, and tips and tricks for successful proposal writing based on my experience. It was inspiring to engage with such a passionate audience which is the next candidate for MSCA-PF. Besides, I also have opportunities to change and share experiences with new and previous recipients of MSCA-PF from University of Malta and MCAST with different backgrounds. A big thank you to the organizers for this experience and to my fellow panelists for their valuable experience sharing.
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse