KUALA LUMPUR, 7 April 2026 — A high-impact collaboration between Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) and ESK Florida Sdn. Bhd. took centre stage at the Persidangan Public-Private Research Network (PPRN), highlighting how academia–industry partnerships can deliver measurable industrial, environmental and public health outcomes.

Showcased before approximately 500 participants at Wyndham Bangsar, the project exemplifies the PPRN initiative’s role in translating research into real-world solutions. Led by Professor Ir. Dr. Srimala Sreekantan, the collaboration addressed persistent inefficiencies in cooling tower water treatment systems particularly the control of Legionella bacteria.

Cooling towers remain a recognised risk factor for Legionella transmission due to their ability to aerosolise contaminated water. Conventional chemical-based treatments, while widely used, often contribute to biofilm formation, corrosion and increased maintenance demands, driving up operational costs.

The USM–ESK Florida team responded with targeted material optimisation of ionisation electrodes, improving the stability and effectiveness of antimicrobial ion release. Field findings demonstrated significant reductions in biofilm levels, alongside improved water clarity and system cleanliness. The enhanced electrodes also delivered reliable control over scaling and algae formation key to long-term operational stability.

Importantly, the innovation enabled a shift towards a chemical-free treatment model. By reducing reliance on conventional biocides, the system supports more sustainable operations and aligns with increasing regulatory scrutiny on chemical discharge.

From an economic standpoint, the project delivered clear gains. End users experienced up to a twofold reduction in electrode-related costs, while ESK Florida reported substantially lower consumable expenses, strengthening its competitive position without compromising performance.

Completed within a six-month period from August 2023 to February 2024, the project progressed efficiently from concept deployment and prototype integration to field testing and commercialisation. The rapid adoption of the optimised alloy electrodes into ESK Florida’s product line underscores the effectiveness of the PPRN framework in accelerating market-ready innovation.

The conference featured 20 completed PPRN projects, alongside exhibitions and technical forums involving government agencies, SME Corp and research institutions reinforcing a national agenda centred on resilient, locally driven solutions.

Vice-Chancellor of USM, Professor Dato’ Seri Ir. Dr. Abdul Rahman Mohamed, emphasised the broader significance of such collaborations, stating: “This partnership reflects how universities can move beyond theoretical research to deliver practical, industry-relevant solutions. Through platforms like PPRN, we are strengthening innovation ecosystems that directly benefit industry, society and the nation.”

The USM–ESK Florida project stands as a compelling example of how focused, data-driven research when aligned with industry needs and supported by structured collaboration can produce scalable solutions with meaningful impact.

As Malaysia accelerates its innovation agenda, this collaboration affirms that aligning academic excellence with industry needs is key to delivering scalable, sustainable solutions with tangible national impact.

Source: Professor Ir. Dr. Srimala Sreekantan, School of Materials & Mineral Resources Engineering / Text: Privinkumar Jayavanan, Media & Public Relations Centre (MPRC) / Editing: Associate Professor Dr. Shaik Abdul Malik Mohamed Ismail, Senior Editorial Consultant @ MPRC USM / Photo: Muhamad Faris Dawisy Mohammad Rafiq, Media & Public Relations Centre (MPRC)