IIT Guwahati’s Geopolymer Innovation Unveiled
ECONOMY & POLICY

IIT Guwahati’s Geopolymer Innovation Unveiled

A team at the Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, led by Prof. Anil K. Mishra, has pioneered a groundbreaking solution to address two significant global challenges: industrial waste management and sustainable construction. Their innovative research utilizes industrial byproducts and waste materials, such as water treatment sludge (WTS), fly ash (FA), and ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS), to create a geopolymer with significant environmental benefits.

With increasing urbanization and industrialization, managing industrial waste, particularly water treatment sludge, has become a critical issue. Approximately 100,000 metric tonnes of sludge are generated daily worldwide, and traditional disposal methods often result in high costs and environmental risks, including potential groundwater contamination. IIT Guwahati’s research emphasizes the urgent need for more sustainable alternatives to address this growing problem.

Prof. Mishra explains that by converting WTS, FA, and GGBS into geopolymers, they have developed a material that not only matches the strength of traditional cement but also significantly reduces carbon emissions and energy consumption. The geopolymer is particularly promising for road construction, where its properties improve performance, especially in soft soils. Additionally, the team’s work extends to utilizing construction waste, promoting a circular economy model.

Tests conducted on the geopolymer have confirmed its non-toxic nature, meeting safety standards and making it suitable for widespread adoption in sustainable infrastructure projects. This advancement represents a significant step toward reducing environmental impact while addressing the increasing demand for sustainable construction materials.

A team at the Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati, led by Prof. Anil K. Mishra, has pioneered a groundbreaking solution to address two significant global challenges: industrial waste management and sustainable construction. Their innovative research utilizes industrial byproducts and waste materials, such as water treatment sludge (WTS), fly ash (FA), and ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS), to create a geopolymer with significant environmental benefits. With increasing urbanization and industrialization, managing industrial waste, particularly water treatment sludge, has become a critical issue. Approximately 100,000 metric tonnes of sludge are generated daily worldwide, and traditional disposal methods often result in high costs and environmental risks, including potential groundwater contamination. IIT Guwahati’s research emphasizes the urgent need for more sustainable alternatives to address this growing problem. Prof. Mishra explains that by converting WTS, FA, and GGBS into geopolymers, they have developed a material that not only matches the strength of traditional cement but also significantly reduces carbon emissions and energy consumption. The geopolymer is particularly promising for road construction, where its properties improve performance, especially in soft soils. Additionally, the team’s work extends to utilizing construction waste, promoting a circular economy model. Tests conducted on the geopolymer have confirmed its non-toxic nature, meeting safety standards and making it suitable for widespread adoption in sustainable infrastructure projects. This advancement represents a significant step toward reducing environmental impact while addressing the increasing demand for sustainable construction materials.

Next Story
Infrastructure Energy

Greaves Electric Mobility Files for IPO

Electric-vehicle manufacturer Greaves Electric Mobility has announced plans to raise Rs 10 billion through an initial public offering (IPO), as stated in its draft papers filed. The company, recognised for its 'Ampere' brand of electric scooters, also produces three-wheelers under a separate brand. Greaves Electric’s major shareholders, Greaves Cotton—a publicly listed entity—and investment firm Abdul Latif Jameel Green Mobility Solutions, will collectively sell approximately 189.4 million shares through the IPO. This move positions Greaves Electric alongside larger competitor Ather En..

Next Story
Infrastructure Energy

IREDA Approves Rs 30 Billion for Odisha's Renewable Energy Projects

Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA) has approved funding exceeding Rs 30 billion for renewable energy projects in Odisha as the state strives to achieve its goal of 10 GW capacity by 2030. Pradip Kumar Das, Chairman and Managing Director of IREDA, shared this update during the Odisha Solar Investor Conclave organised by GRIDCO. He emphasised that accessible financing is crucial to fostering the adoption of renewable energy. Das outlined IREDA's significant contributions to funding renewable energy projects in Odisha, spanning sectors such as solar, hydro, ethanol, and renewable..

Next Story
Infrastructure Energy

Oil Prices Rise Amid Light Pre-Christmas Trading

Oil prices edged higher during light trading ahead of the Christmas Day holiday. The increase was attributed to positive US economic data and growing oil demand in India, the third-largest importer of oil globally. Brent crude futures rose by 33 cents, or 0.45 per cent, to reach $72.95 per barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures gained 29 cents, or 0.42 per cent, settling at $69.53 per barrel as of 0114 GMT. Economic indicators in the United States highlighted a surge in new orders for key manufactured capital goods in November, driven by robust demand for machinery. Add..

Hi There!

"Now get regular updates from CW Magazine on WhatsApp!

Join the CW WhatsApp channel for the latest news, industry events, expert insights, and project updates from the construction and infrastructure industry.

Click the link below to join"

+91 81086 03000