IIT Indore Develops Method to Make Pure Hydrogen from Plastic Waste
The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Indore has successfully developed an innovative and efficient method to produce pure hydrogen from PET plastic waste. PET, which stands for polyethylene terephthalate, is the most widely used polymer globally, particularly in single-use packaging materials like disposable bottles and consumer items. The three-year research undertaken at IIT Indore has not only found a solution to the global problem of plastic waste disposal but also opened up possibilities for earning from waste.
According to the management at IIT Indore, this development could potentially revolutionize the way plastic waste is dealt with and contribute to the country’s efforts in achieving a sustainable and cleaner future. India alone produced around 34.7 lakh tonnes of plastic waste in the previous fiscal year, highlighting the dire need for effective waste management strategies.
Sanjay K Singh, a professor from the Department of Chemistry at IIT Indore, explained the process involved in producing pure hydrogen from PET plastic waste. Tiny pieces of PET plastic, along with catalysts and other substances, are added to water and then heated to 160 degrees Celsius. Through this chemical reaction, 100% pure hydrogen is released and subsequently collected. Approximately 33 kg of PET plastic waste can produce one kilogram of high-quality hydrogen using this method. This pure hydrogen is considered a green fuel and can power a hydrogen-powered car for up to 100 kilometers.
This development aligns with the Indian government’s commitment to the National Green Hydrogen Campaign, with an allocation of Rs 19,744 crore dedicated to making India a global hub for clean fuel production. Under this campaign, India aims to have an annual capacity of producing at least 50 lakh tonnes of green hydrogen by 2030.
The IIT Indore’s research on converting PET plastic waste into green hydrogen can significantly contribute to achieving this goal. India has set ambitious targets of becoming energy independent by 2047 and achieving Net Zero by 2070.
In conclusion, IIT Indore’s breakthrough method for extracting pure hydrogen from PET plastic waste presents a promising solution to the global issue of plastic waste disposal. With India producing substantial amounts of plastic waste, this innovative approach not only helps tackle the environmental challenge but also contributes to the country’s clean energy goals. By converting plastic waste into green hydrogen, IIT Indore’s research enables India to progress towards a more sustainable and eco-friendly future.
