Researchers at Shivaji University, Kolhapur (SUK) developed an innovative device for treating industrial wastewater and secured an Indian design patent for the technology. The patented solution aims to provide industries with a cost-effective and environmentally sustainable approach to reducing water pollution, particularly from textile and chemical manufacturing operations.
Smart Device Targets Industrial Wastewater Pollution
The Smart Composite Material Testing Device was developed by Dr Aviraj Ramchandra Kuldeep of the Department of Chemistry, Shivaji University. The research team also includes Dr Rahul Maruti Mane, Dr Kishore Kumar Khot, Dr Kalyanrao Garadkar, and Dr Sharadchandra Patil. The technology focuses on treating industrial effluents containing hazardous and colour-bearing pollutants. Consequently, it could offer a practical solution for industries seeking to strengthen wastewater treatment and reduce their environmental footprint.
Advanced Composite Material Enables Pollutant Degradation
The device uses semiconductor photocatalysis, a chemical process that can break down hazardous pollutants in wastewater. At its core, the technology incorporates an advanced composite material made from graphitic carbon nitride (g-C₃N₄) and titanium dioxide (TiO₂). This combination enables the photocatalytic degradation of toxic, colour-bearing compounds commonly present in industrial effluents. By targeting these pollutants, the technology could help improve the quality of treated wastewater before its discharge or further reuse.
Affordable Solution for Textile and Chemical Industries
Industrial wastewater from textile units and chemical manufacturing facilities can contain dyes and other hazardous compounds that pose significant environmental risks when inadequately treated. Dr Aviraj Ramchandra Kuldeep said the device can destroy hazardous and toxic colour components in wastewater at a low cost, offering industries a more environmentally friendly treatment option. The technology could help industries strengthen their effluent treatment practices while reducing the potential impact of untreated wastewater on rivers, drains and other water bodies.
Supporting Cleaner Water and Sustainable Treatment
The researchers believe the technology could contribute to cleaner water bodies and safer water resources for communities. In addition, the low-cost approach could make advanced wastewater treatment more accessible to industries that need economical solutions for managing complex effluents. This could be particularly relevant for sectors that generate significant quantities of dye-containing or chemically contaminated wastewater.
Researcher Builds Strong Record in Sustainable Innovation
Dr Kuldeep has been involved in several national and international research initiatives focused on environmental sustainability and pollution control. He was also granted a UK design patent in 2024. In addition, the Centre awarded him the Swachhta Sarathi Fellowship-2023 for his research on sustainable approaches to pollution in the Panchaganga River region covering Kolhapur and Ichalkaranji. The latest Indian design patent adds another milestone to his research career and highlights the potential of advanced materials and photocatalytic technologies in addressing industrial wastewater challenges.
Towards More Sustainable Industrial Wastewater Treatment
The patented wastewater purification device demonstrates how advanced composite materials, semiconductor photocatalysis and low-cost engineering can work together to tackle industrial pollution. As reported by timesofindia.indiatimes.com, as industries increasingly focus on water conservation, wastewater reuse and stricter environmental performance, technologies such as this could play an important role in developing affordable, efficient and sustainable industrial effluent treatment solutions.
