A literature review of the development, mechanical properties and uses of pineapple leaf fibre (PALF) reinforced polymer composites is presented in this paper. The mechanical properties of PALF composites as determined by various researchers are discussed, together with chemical, thermal and physical properties. Both thermosetting and thermoplastic resins have been used as matrices for PALF composites. Most of the work surveyed used short PALF. Manufacturing methods such as injection moulding, hand lay up and compression moulding were usually employed for making composite samples.

A survey among beachgoers was conducted to determine the swimming associated health effects experienced and its relationship with beach water exposure behaviour in Morib beach. For beach water exposure behaviour, the highest frequency of visit among the respondents was once a year (41.9%). For ways of water exposure, whole body exposure including head was the highest (38.5%). For duration of water exposure, 30.8% respondents prefer to be in water for about 30 min with low possibilities of accidental ingestion of beach water. A total of 30.8% of beachgoers in Morib beach were reported of having dermal symptoms. Bivariate analysis showed only water activity, water contact and accidental ingestion of beach water showed significant association with swimming associated health effects experienced by swimmers. This study output showed that epidemiological study can be used to identify swimming associated health effects in beach water exposed to faecal contamination.