Mumbai, Mar 30: The Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay) has developed a patented biomass gasification technology that enables its campus kitchens to operate with significantly reduced dependence on LPG.
Offering a sustainable alternative amid rising fuel costs and supply concerns.
The innovation, developed over nearly a decade, converts dry leaf waste collected from the institute’s green campus into a reliable cooking fuel.
The project was initiated in 2014 under Professor Sanjay Mahajani from the chemical engineering department, aimed at addressing the challenge of disposing large quantities of fallen leaves.
According to the institute, early trials faced multiple hurdles, including heavy smoke emissions, operational inefficiencies and resistance from kitchen staff.
A key technical challenge was the formation of clinkers—solid residues that obstructed conventional systems.
By 2016, the research team successfully developed a patented gasifier that significantly reduced clinker formation, improving efficiency and usability.
In 2017, Professor Sandeep Kumar from the energy science and engineering department joined the initiative and contributed to designing an improved burner system.
The technology was further refined under the institute’s Living Lab initiative, allowing real-time testing and addressing safety concerns.
Following extensive trials, the system was deployed in a staff canteen by 2024.
At present, the canteen operates with 30 to 40 per cent lower LPG consumption, achieving nearly 60 per cent thermal efficiency with minimal emissions.
The system ensures uninterrupted cooking operations even during potential LPG shortages.
The institute estimates that the initiative reduces carbon dioxide emissions by around eight tonnes annually.
Plans are underway to scale up the technology across hostel mess facilities, which could lead to substantial savings in fuel costs and further reductions in emissions.
Experts say such innovations highlight the potential of waste-to-energy solutions in institutional settings, particularly in reducing reliance on conventional fuels and promoting sustainable practices.
