KUALA LUMPUR, 19 May 2026 – Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) strengthened its position in sustainable healthcare engineering and advanced material innovation through the presentation of EcoShield-X at the 37th International Invention, Innovation and Technology Exhibition (ITEX) 2026. Developed under the leadership of Associate Professor Ts. Dr. Rafidah Zainon through Pusat Kanser Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi (PKTAAB), the innovation drew significant attention for its environmentally responsible approach towards modern radiation shielding systems.

EcoShield-X is a lead-free radiation shielding innovation engineered using an advanced nano-micro composite structure integrating tungsten carbide and bismuth oxide within a polymer-based matrix. Designed to address concerns surrounding conventional lead-based shielding materials, the innovation offers a safer, lighter and more sustainable alternative for healthcare and industrial radiation environments.

The technology also features a modular interlocking configuration that enables flexible installation and scalable deployment across diagnostic imaging facilities, radiopharmaceutical laboratories and industrial radiation operations. Its lightweight yet durable structure improves operational efficiency while reducing ergonomic limitations associated with traditional shielding systems.

According to Associate Professor Ts. Dr. Rafidah Zainon, the project was developed to support more sustainable and adaptable approaches towards modern radiation protection systems.

“Radiation protection technologies today must extend beyond shielding capability alone. Future-ready systems must also address environmental responsibility, operational adaptability and long-term safety considerations. EcoShield-X was developed to integrate these priorities into a single sustainable material platform.”

Meanwhile, the Vice-Chancellor of USM, Professor Dato’ Seri Ir. Dr. Abdul Rahman Mohamed, said the innovation reflects USM’s aspiration to translate high-impact research into sustainable solutions with meaningful societal and industrial value.

“EcoShield-X reflects the strength of interdisciplinary research in developing solutions that integrate scientific excellence, sustainability and real-world application. This achievement further reinforces USM’s aspiration to advance impactful innovations that contribute meaningfully towards the future of healthcare, industry and environmental responsibility.”

EcoShield-X’s participation at ITEX 2026 highlights USM’s expanding contribution towards future-ready technologies that support sustainable healthcare and responsible engineering development.

Source: Associate Professor Ts. Dr. Rafidah Zainon, Pusat Kanser Tun Abdullah Ahmad Badawi (PKTAAB), USM/Text: PrivinKumar Jayavanan, Media & Public Relations Centre (MPRC), USM/Editing: Associate Professor Dr. Shaik Abdul Malik Mohamed Ismail, Senior Editorial Consultant @MPRC USM/Photo: Muhamad Faris Darwisy Mohammad Rafiq, Media & Public Relations Centre (MPRC), USM