The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has approved a sum of Rs 1.79 crore for Kumaon University’s nano science centre under the National Mission on Himalayan Studies programme. This sum will be put to use on research for developing nano particles by converting polythene and other waste material into graphene.
The vice-chancellor of Kumaon University, Professor HS Dhami said that the MoEFCC has made the GB Pant Institute of Himalayan Environment and Development, Almora, the executing agency for the National Mission on Himalayan Studies.
Earlier, in the last month an international seminar on nano-science and technology had been organised by the university’s nano science centre. In the seminar officials had provided information on the research works being undertaken towards making of graphene from plastic waste.
He also spoke about the problems being faced due to budgetary constraints. The vice-chancellor further said that the NSC is conducting research on how to recycle plastic waste to make graphene which would also address the damaging impact of plastic waste on the environment.
The graphene will be used to make nano particles (chips) used in equipment. This will not only help in tackling the rising threat of plastic waste but by facilitating sale of nano particles made by recycling plastic and waste, will also increase the revenue of Kumaon university.
Taking cognisance of the university’s plan, the ministry approved a sanction of Rs 1.79 crore for the same. This amount will be utilised for purchasing research equipment and other important items for the nano science centre, said officials.
With its attributes like the lightest and strongest material compared with its ability to conduct heat and electricity better than others, the thin later of carbon- graphene has potential for integration into a large number of applications.