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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 extensively used for its availability and light-weight property. However amid its widespread purposes, customers are inclined 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 resolution is lighter and sturdier, and has the identical really feel because the polystyrene. “By way of energy, it compares favourably to high-density thermocol; nonetheless, weight-wise, it leans a bit on the heavier facet,” he provides.
Speaking in regards to 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 mixture of agricultural waste and pure fibres, contributing to the sturdiness and longevity of the thermocol. The inherent properties of mushrooms make for a strong 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 would 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 received keen on mushroom farming and found its potential. With steerage from IIT Kanpur, he launched his startup ‘Kinoko Biotech’ to make bio-materials from mushrooms.
“With this, inexperienced innovation, I hope to offer individuals the chance to contribute positively in the direction of the atmosphere,” he shares.
Watch this video to study extra about this eco-friendly thermocol:
Edited by Pranita Bhat
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