Indian Scientists Develop Bio-Thermocol from Paddy Stubble

Ludhiana: Scientists at the Central Institute of Post Harvest Engineering and Technology (CIPHET) in Ludhiana, India, have developed a new biodegradable material called “bio-thermocol” using paddy stubble. This innovative solution addresses the issue of stubble burning in Haryana and Punjab, where farmers often burn their paddy stubble after harvest, causing severe air pollution.

Bio-thermocol is made by chopping paddy stubble into small pieces and then sterilizing them in a laboratory setting. The researchers then use a substrate called spawn, which produces mycelium, as an adhesive to bind the processed stubble. This mycelium also imparts a white colour to the stubble paste, which can be moulded into various shapes and sizes. The entire manufacturing process takes approximately 20 days.

Bio-thermocol is lightweight and has similar properties to traditional industrial thermocol, but it is biodegradable and environmentally friendly. It can be used for packaging purposes, roof ceilings, insulation, and plastering of concrete pillars.

This innovation offers a number of benefits. It provides a sustainable alternative to stubble burning, which is a major contributor to air pollution in northern India. It also offers farmers an opportunity to augment their income by selling their stubble to industries. CIPHET has already established an MOU with a local industrial unit, with more expected in the future.

The development of bio-thermocol is a significant step towards addressing the issue of stubble burning in India. It is a sustainable and innovative solution that benefits both farmers and the environment.