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Scalable catalytic depolymerization of post-consumer polyethylene terephthalate (PET) using heterogeneous catalysis

Status: New

Lab/Organization
Name & address of the Laboratory/Organization Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Palakkad
Website address https://iitpkd.ac.in/
Affiliated to which Department/Ministry Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)
CSR Registration Number CSR00006228
Registration under 12A
Registration under 80G ITBA/EXM/S/80G/2020-21/1027823431(1) dated 28/08/2020
Name of the CSR Nodal Sureshkumar Chekkala
Contact information of CSR Nodal 9494143565, aricsr@iitpkd.ac.in
Principal Investigator Dr. Dinesh Jagadeesan , d.jagadeesan@iitpkd.ac.in
https://iitpkd.ac.in/people/djagadeesan
Co- Principal Investigator (Co-PI)
Project Detail
Objective on the basis of need

To develop a technology for managing solid waste due to plastics

Executive summary of the proposed project (In 250 words)

About 3.5 million tons of plastic waste is generated in India annually. About 40% of it is burnt intentionally or accidentally releasing toxic volatiles. A significant portion of it lies in landfills or dumped which eventually is washed away into the water bodies to form microplastics. The leachates from the landfills too enter into the soil modifying the structure and texture of soil negatively impacting the agricultural practices. Hence, the problem of solid waste in landfills as well as the microplastics are increasingly recognized as top priority, which concerns the health of the environment as well as other living forms. Efficient management of urban and rural solid wastes is an important global sustainability goal. Any technical intervention to an efficient management of solid wastes has to be critically hinged on managing its plastics components. The proposed project aims to carry out research work to develop new materials that can break down plastics into its starting materials. We have preliminary research that shows promising results.

Technology Readiness Level (If not a new project but an advancement of existing know how) 5
Outomes or Deliverables

If the plastics can be depolymerized to its original reactant molecules, it can be reused to make plastics in high quality without having to depend on fossil fuels for its raw materials.This will open up new value additions to the waste collection and safe disposal by the organized and unorganized sectors.

Project aligned with which most relevant UN SDGs Goal 11 - Sustainable Cities & Communities
Duration (In years) 2
Expected Impact

Safe disposal of plastic waste by organized and unorganized sectors. Reuse of plastic to make plastics without depending of fossil fuels.

Implementation model (self- implemented/ outsourced partnership) Self - implemented
Total Budget (Recurring +Non-Recurring Expenses) Rs. 30 Lakhs