[ad_1]
Chaitanya Dubey, who runs IIT Kanpur-incubated startup Kinoko Biotech, developed a biodegradable thermocol various utilizing mushroom mycelium and agricultural waste. Here is the way it works.
Whether or not it’s for events, faculty initiatives, or packaging wants, thermocol has been broadly used for its availability and light-weight property. However amid its widespread functions, customers are likely to overlook the dangerous results brought on by it. Composed of polystyrene, thermocol turns into non-biodegradable and produces dangerous air pollution when uncovered to daylight.
Kanpur’s Chaitanya Dubey discovered a novel biodegradable various to conventional thermocol utilizing mushroom mycelium and agricultural waste.
Chaitanya says his eco-friendly answer is lighter and sturdier, and has the identical really feel because the polystyrene. “By way of power, it compares favourably to high-density thermocol; nonetheless, weight-wise, it leans a bit on the heavier aspect,” he provides.
Speaking concerning the parts used to create the choice, he explains, “Mycelium, or the roots of the mushroom, serves as a pure adhesive. Moreover, we utilise a mix of agricultural waste and pure fibres, contributing to the sturdiness and longevity of the thermocol. The inherent properties of mushrooms make for a sturdy materials.”
This biodegradable thermocol additionally doubles up as a fertiliser and decomposes in 60-90 days. “As soon as its objective is fulfilled, simply crush it and add it to your plant pots; it should act as a pure fertiliser,” he shares including that the product is now accessible to packaging companies.
It was whereas pursuing a small enterprise course that Chaitanya acquired keen on mushroom farming and found its potential. With steering from IIT Kanpur, he launched his startup ‘Kinoko Biotech’ to make bio-materials from mushrooms.
“With this, inexperienced innovation, I hope to offer folks the chance to contribute positively in direction of the surroundings,” he shares.
Watch this video to study extra about this eco-friendly thermocol:
Edited by Pranita Bhat
[ad_2]