Reaction from the field
The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) is making significant strides in sustainable infrastructure through innovative initiatives that not only address waste management but also enhance technological capabilities. One of the most impactful projects currently underway involves the utilization of Waste Foundry Sand in road construction, a move that promises to transform an industrial by-product into a valuable resource.
CSIR-Central Road Research Institute (CSIR-CRRI) is at the forefront of this initiative, collaborating with the Institute of Indian Foundrymen (IIF) and Suyog Elements India Pvt. Ltd. The partnership aims to develop solutions for the effective reuse of Waste Foundry Sand, which is a by-product of the metal casting industry. The Coimbatore foundry cluster, recognized as India’s largest foundry cluster, generates substantial quantities of this waste, with around 800 to 1000 foundry units contributing to the issue.
Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, a prominent figure in this initiative, emphasized the importance of utilizing industrial by-products like Waste Foundry Sand in road construction. She stated, “The utilization of industrial by-products like Waste Foundry Sand in road construction reflects CSIR’s commitment to sustainable development and circular economy.” This project not only aims to address the challenges posed by waste management but also supports the Government of India’s vision of promoting environmentally sustainable practices in infrastructure development.
In addition to the road construction initiative, CSIR is also advancing drone technology through its collaboration with CSIR-National Aerospace Laboratories (CSIR-NAL) and KRR Aerospace. The focus here is on the QPlane eVTOL drone, which has been designed for multi-sector applications, including defense, agriculture, and logistics. This drone features fully electric propulsion and the capability for vertical take-off and landing, making it a versatile tool for various industries.
The QPlane eVTOL drone boasts an operational range of approximately 20 kilometers, making it suitable for a range of logistical needs. The technology transfer from CSIR-NAL to KRR Aerospace for mass production is a significant step towards enhancing India’s capabilities in the drone sector. As Dr. Ch. Ravi Sekhar noted, “CSIR-CRRI has been at the forefront of developing sustainable and innovative road technologies,” highlighting the organization’s commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology with sustainable practices.
Both initiatives reflect a broader commitment to sustainability and innovation within the CSIR framework. The collaboration between CSIR-CRRI and IIF aims to convert waste foundry sand into a valuable infrastructure resource, thereby promoting environmentally sustainable road construction practices and reducing dependency on natural aggregates. Sushil Sharma, another key player in this initiative, pointed out, “This project aims to address these challenges by enabling the scientific reuse of foundry sand in road construction, thereby converting waste into a valuable infrastructure resource.”
As these initiatives progress, the potential for further developments remains high. The integration of sustainable practices in infrastructure and technology not only addresses immediate challenges but also sets a precedent for future projects. However, details remain unconfirmed regarding the timeline for the full-scale implementation of these technologies and their long-term impact on the industry.
