Researchers at Mahatma Gandhi University have developed a technology to generate electricity from tender coconut husk, a material that contributes to environmental pollution. The discovery was part of the research conducted by Er.Abin John Varghese under the MTech programme at the School of Energy Materials.The technology, named ‘J.P Kiran,’ generates energy by biodegrading tender coconut husk rich in lignin, a natural polymer in plant cell walls, within 48 hours using microbial activity. A patent application for this innovative technology has already been submitted.

 

The year-long research was overseen by the late Agricultural scientist Dr. C.A. Jayaprakash, former Vice Chancellor Prof. Sabu Thomas, Director of the Business Innovation and Incubation Centre Dr. E.K. Radhakrishnan, Head of the School of Environmental Sciences Dr. Mahesh Mohan, and Dr. C. Chandana.Technical assistance for converting Compressed natural gas to electricity was provided by a team from Kodankandath Industries, led by Francis Mathew. Scientists from the Central Plantation Crops Research Institute (ICAR-CPCRI) in Kasaragod evaluated and pledged support for the invention during their visit to the university.

 

The new system can process any organic waste, including tender coconut husk, to generate electricity within 36 to 48 hours. To enhance and industrialise the technology, Er. Abin is collaborating with various international universities to carry out advanced research and higher studies under the guidance of Prof. Sabu Thomas and Dr. Radhakrishnan.Vice Chancellor Dr. C.T. Aravindakumar described the breakthrough as a proud achievement for Mahatma Gandhi University, which has consistently pioneered socially beneficial innovations and their industrial applications. He also stated that the possibility of using J.P. Kiran technology to meet the university’s electricity needs would be explored.