Scientists at the Indian Institute of Technology (Indian School of Mines), Dhanbad, have made a groundbreaking development by creating water-repellent and biodegradable jute. This innovative solution aims to address the issues of food grain decay and the adverse environmental impact caused by plastic bags.
The IIT (ISM) Dhanbad research team, consisting of Dr. Aditya Kumar, associate professor of the chemical engineering department, and Dr. Poonam Chauhan, a research scholar from the same department, successfully completed their research over a span of two and a half years.
In November of last year, they also filed a patent application for their groundbreaking creation.
The researchers utilised a silane-based coating to make jute water-repellent, enabling it to protect food grains without contributing to plastic waste.
Unlike traditional plastic sacks or bags used in food grain packaging, this water-repellent jute has a significantly lower carbon footprint.
The team’s development offers a sustainable alternative that not only safeguards food grains but also minimizes the negative impact on the environment and human health.
Dr. Aditya Kumar explained that the team employed inexpensive materials and a chemical coating process using the spread method under ambient conditions, without the need for sophisticated instruments.
The coating itself is biodegradable and eco-friendly, reducing the chances of any harmful effects on the environment or human health. Additionally, the coated jute retains its mechanical durability, while the weight and thickness of the jute remain unaffected.
Water-repellent jute presents several advantages over traditional jute. Its self-cleaning properties contribute to improved stain and dust contamination resistance.
Furthermore, the bags made from this water-repellent jute can effectively safeguard grains from moisture even in highly humid environments.
This quality opens up possibilities for extended applications, such as geotextiles where moisture or water-related issues arise. The cost-effectiveness of the coating material, priced at approximately Rs 70 per litre, adds to the viability of this sustainable solution.
While the water-repellent jute has currently been developed on a laboratory scale, Dr. Aditya Kumar expressed the team’s intention to seek commercialisation opportunities once the idea is patented.
This breakthrough innovation has the potential to revolutionise the packaging industry and reduce the reliance on harmful plastic materials.
The development of water-repellent, biodegradable jute represents a significant step toward a more sustainable future, where eco-friendly alternatives can replace single-use plastics, benefiting both the environment and human health.