A research team from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bhubaneswar has created a solar-powered microwave pyrolysis reactor capable of recovering valuable resources from both segregated and mixed waste, including biomass and plastics. The reactor uses microwave-assisted pyrolysis to quickly convert waste into valuable products like biochar and bio-oil, depending on the feedstock and conditions.
Current solid waste management methods, such as incineration, biogas production, and landfilling, have limited recycling potential and often result in significant environmental pollution. IIT Bhubaneswar’s new technology offers a more sustainable solution, producing biochar, bio-oil, and syngas efficiently, as noted by lead researcher Remya Neelancherry.
The technology can be applied across various sectors, including agriculture, transportation, and energy, offering municipalities and industries a way to generate revenue with less pollution compared to conventional methods. Depending on the waste management requirements, the reactor can be implemented with either a fixed bed or a fluidized bed setup.