Rapid Fire
CSIR-IICT’s Breakthrough in Clean Energy
- 04 Feb 2025
- 2 min read
Researchers at the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR) - Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (IICT) have produced biohydrogen (bioH₂) from food waste.
- BioH₂ Production: Food waste undergoes microbial fermentation in an upflow reactor with a self-regulating buffering system, optimizing bioH₂ yield and minimizing methane and Carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions compared to traditional biogas methods.
- Fermentation is the anaerobic (absence of oxygen) breakdown of compounds by microorganisms (such as bacteria or yeast), releasing energy.
- The study addresses both waste management and clean energy needs, supporting net-zero targets.
- Another study led by the chief scientist at IICT demonstrated an efficient method to convert CO₂ into ethanol and acetic acid, reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
- CO₂ Conversion: Traditionally, H₂ is needed for CO₂ conversion into products like methane, ethanol, or acetic acid.
- The study used high-pressure gas fermentation (HPGF) reactor, eliminating the need for H₂, making the process more sustainable, energy-efficient, and cost-effective, yielding higher ethanol and acetic acid.
- CSIR-IICT: Established in 1944, CSIR-IICT in Hyderabad is one of the oldest National Laboratories recognized for its expertise in chemical technology, applied research, and commercialization.
Read more: Biofuels
