Waste Management: IIT Bhubaneswar develops Reactor

A research team from the School of Infrastructure at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bhubaneswar has developed a pioneering solar-powered microwave pyrolysis reactor designed to recover valuable resources from both segregated and mixed waste materials, including biomass and plastics. The innovative reactor utilises microwave-assisted pyrolysis to swiftly convert waste into valuable products, such as highly porous carbonaceous material (biochar) and bio-oil, depending on the characteristics of the feedstock and operating conditions. Current solid waste management practices primarily involve incineration, biogas plants, or landfill disposal, which offer limited opportunities for recycling. Incineration, although an alternative to landfilling, often results in significant environmental pollution due to the release of toxic gases and ashes. The microwave-assisted pyrolysis technology developed by IIT Bhubaneswar is seen as a promising solution to these challenges. Dr. Remya Neelancherry, the lead researcher of the project, explained that microwave-assisted pyrolysis is a technology capable of producing valuable end products like biochar, bio-oil, and syngas in a very short amount of time, addressing the urgent need for sustainable waste management. The research at IIT Bhubaneswar is focused on the feasibility and applicability of these end products across various sectors, including agriculture, transportation, and energy production. An Indian patent has been granted for this technology. Dr. Remya elaborated on the working principles of the technology, stating that this emerging technology utilises microwave radiation to generate homogeneous heat within the feedstock, enabling efficient conversion into valuable end products at a faster rate with precise control over reactions. Furthermore, the reactor operates entirely on solar power, ensuring sustainability and self-reliance without imposing any additional energy demands. This novel, mobile technology requires minimal footprint area and is capable of converting waste at a rate of 10 kg/h into high-value end-products. Its mobility facilitates decentralised waste management. Moreover, the technology is carbon-neutral, providing investors with a direct opportunity to generate carbon credits. The end products of this process, biochar and bio-oil, have a wide range of applications, from healthcare to agriculture and industrial uses. Studies suggest that biochar could be a promising replacement for coal, while bio-oil can serve as an alternative to petroleum products. The conversion of high-heating-value refuse into these energy products can support efforts to achieve net-zero emissions and meet the IPCC?s (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change) 2?C global warming challenge. Other significant applications of biochar include soil improvement, slow-release fertilisers, carbon capture, and wastewater treatment. This environmentally-friendly technology can be implemented by municipalities and industries across various locations within cities, offering the potential to generate significant revenue with minimal pollution compared to incineration and other conventional waste management techniques.

Dr. Remya concluded by stating that, depending on the waste management needs, this technology can be implemented in two forms: with a fixed bed reactor or a fluidised bed reactor. Research indicates promising potential for this technology to positively impact the alternative energy market, and investors are encouraged to explore this technology, which ensures environmental protection while fostering market growth.