STORY
KAOMA Labs grew out of my work with the Forest Rangers Service Group in Northern Thailand. Supporting equipment donations, helping build firebreaks, and listening to rangers’ practical challenges prompted me to research and develop flame-retardant materials that could support their work.
I began with flame-retardant-treated pha khao ma, a traditional Thai cotton cloth. Sharing the prototype with volunteers brought feedback about its weight and suitability for field conditions, prompting me to reconsider the material and its intended use.
The project shifted toward coconut coir mats intended for placement on the ground. At KMUTT, I tested mats coated with chitosan, ammonium polyphosphate (APP), and citric acid, varying the chitosan-to-APP ratio to compare flame-retardant performance. Ranger input also informed the development process.
On 6 June 2026, I brought 50 × 50 cm prototypes to Khun Khan National Park for preliminary field trials. Park personnel managed the fire and shared practical feedback. This visit was one stage in the project’s progression from laboratory testing to field evaluation.
COMMUNITY & RECOGNITION
Tul’s work with Forest Rangers connects community service with his interest in developing practical materials for people working in forest areas.
Tul received the award in the public service category for his work with Forest Rangers.
View Award Certificate (opens in a new tab)
The department recognized the Forest Rangers student volunteer group at NIST for its contribution to coordinated forest fire prevention efforts and hotspot reduction in 2025.
View Certificate of Recognition (opens in a new tab)PEOPLE BEHIND THE PROJECT
NIST International School. With input from project collaborators, academic advisors and forest rangers.
Tul co-founded the Forest Rangers service group. Its conversations helped inspire this project.
