Thailand's National Metal and Materials Technology Center Delivers Low-Carbon Plastic Bags Made from Industrial Byproduct

Key summary

On October 19, 2026, the National Metal and Materials Technology Center (MTEC) of the National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), under the Up-Tech project supported by the Basic Industries and Mining Department (BIMD), delivered a prototype batch of 11,000 low-carbon plastic bags to Thammasat University Hospital. The delivery was made by Dr. Sarawut Lertplapsanti, Deputy Director of MTEC NSTDA; Dr. Anucha Wannakorn, Project Head; and the research team. The recipient was Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nitida Satratpaichit, Deputy Director of Finance. The prototype bags were produced using CaCake (cement sludge) leftover from Siam Sugar Public Company Limited (Mitr Phol Sugar), which served as a substitute for natural limestone in masterbatch pellets manufactured by Polypet Partnership. This process yielded CaCake Masterbatch used to create various plastic products. The material quality is good, and the project plans to seek certification as secondary raw material under the End of Waste policy. This initiative demonstrates the application of materials knowledge, innovation, and technology to support a circular economy by maximizing resource value, reducing reliance on natural resources, and promoting sustainable industrial development.