IIT Bhubaneswar Launches Solar-Powered Waste Pyrolysis Reactor

Researchers from IIT Bhubaneswar have developed a solar-powered microwave pyrolysis reactor that efficiently converts waste materials, including biomass and plastics, into valuable products such as biochar, bio-oil, and syngas. This innovative technology addresses the limitations of current waste management methods, which typically rely on incineration or landfills that contribute to environmental pollution. The reactor operates solely on solar energy, ensuring sustainability while maintaining a mobile design that allows for decentralized waste management. Dr. Remya Neelancherry, the lead researcher, emphasized the reactor's capability to produce high-value end products rapidly and its potential applications across various sectors. An Indian patent has been granted for this technology, reinforcing its significance in achieving sustainable waste management goals. This advancement supports efforts towards carbon neutrality and net-zero emissions.