Banda Aceh, 30 March 2026 – A remarkable achievement has once again been accomplished by students from the Department of Physics, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA), Universitas Syiah Kuala (USK). A team consisting of Raden Fhanda Bintang Dwiryo and Ajie Al Buqory secured 3rd place at the national level in the Lomba Karya Tulis Ilmiah Nasional 2026, organized by the Indonesian Young Scientist Association in collaboration with Next Generation Knowledge.
The award was achieved through their scientific paper entitled “The Effect of Hydroxyapatite (HAp) Particle Size Variation from Chicken Eggshells on Porosity and Compressive Strength as a Candidate for Bone Graft Material.” The study highlights the utilization of chicken eggshell waste as a raw material for synthesizing hydroxyapatite, a widely used biomaterial in medical applications, particularly in bone tissue engineering.
In their research, the team investigated the influence of particle size variation on key physical properties of the material, specifically porosity and compressive strength. These parameters are crucial in determining the suitability of a material for bone graft applications, as they directly affect mechanical durability and the ability to integrate with natural bone tissue.
The findings reveal that controlling the particle size of hydroxyapatite significantly improves the material’s performance, making it more suitable for medical use. This approach not only offers a scientific solution but also presents a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative for biomaterial production.
The project stood out to the judges due to its strong combination of innovation, sustainability, and real-world application in the healthcare sector. Transforming organic waste into high-value biomaterials became a key factor that distinguished this work among participants from various universities across Indonesia.
This achievement demonstrates that students of the Physics Department at FMIPA USK are capable of contributing to applied scientific advancements that address real societal needs. It is also expected to inspire other students to actively engage in research and scientific competitions.
With this accomplishment, the Department of Physics, FMIPA Universitas Syiah Kuala further strengthens its position as a hub for innovative research at the national level, particularly in the field of materials physics and its applications in healthcare.