THE spread of viruses like Covid-19 is something that governments believe they have prepared for before it becomes a pandemic. Scientists make hypotheses, and even come up with conclusions on localised cases as they make theories on how mankind may fight it.
However, early simulations pale in comparison with reality. Though all of us may stand upright as part of history and claim that nothing could have prepared us for this uphill battle, what do we bring forth?
Our cavalry, of course! In this particular case, it's materials science. As we witnessed time and time again, materials science has always been indispensable in conceiving novel solutions.
Prevention, protection, diagnostics, therapeutics and vaccines, all which play a crucial part in our crusade against Covid-19, share a key component for any of them to work — materials science. For example, the production of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) suits, currently the most sought-after item in the world (some say more valuable than precious gems).
The importance of PPE suits has been touted to such high degree that has become like a "second skin" for healthcare frontliners in fighting against the deadly Covid-19 virus.
The frontliners, especially in countries with similar climate to Malaysia, have to withstand heat and discomfort from wearing PPE for long hours. This has led some to experience dizziness and even fainting. PPE are usually worn indoors or in secure areas, but now it needs to be worn in almost every condition.
There is a need for adaptation and innovation that can only be resolved by a material technologist.
Material scientists throughout the region are urged to produce inert PPE suits from breathable fabric that can resolve these challenges faced by our frontliners.
Among the hardship and struggle, UVEX, a company from Germany, has come up with various types of breathable PPE suits.
A pandemic brings not only medical hardship, but also economic problems.
This has motivated local material scientists to come up with our very own PPE suit that is easy to wear, inert, breathable and disposable. On top of that, additional properties, such as being recyclable, will help promote a green environment.
In Malaysia, almost all public higher-learning institutions and private universities offer a materials science programme, under either the Science or Engineering Faculty. No doubt, recent events have elevated the need for bright young minds to explore more of what these fields may offer the world.
The top 200 to 300 higher learning institutions in the QS World University Rankings have highlighted the importance of promoting the field of materials science to students. Where better to start than in schools?
Materials science is an interdisciplinary field involving matters and their properties that can be applied in various areas of science and engineering. It is a root study involving three basic materials — polymers, metals and ceramic.
Look around, these are what the modern world is made of. Imagine the automotive industry still relying on heavy materials. Materials science has, instead, developed lighter and better components to be used in vehicle manufacturing.
This requires exploration of the physical, mechanical, chemical, thermal and morphological properties of various materials.
These are what all biological beings are made of, the rules that reality abide by, the very study of action that causes a reaction.
The beauty of materials science lies in discovering new materials and their applications.
Materials science, on its own or in collaboration with other branches of science, can and will always contribute to knowledge, information and applications of things in our everyday lives.
To date, its research has shown great performance and potential, while undoubtedly contributing to the betterment of mankind.
The writers are from the Faculty of Applied Sciences, Universiti Teknologi Mara, Shah Alam
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times