Sustainable Technology Research

IIT Kanpur has adopted a multidisciplinary approach to enhance existing research efforts and explore new and demanding domains in solar energy development. One notable initiative in this regard is the establishment of a Solar Energy Research Enclave, featuring a solar silicon photovoltaic technology demonstrator accompanied by diverse modular components and associated laboratories. Furthermore, research activities encompass organic photovoltaics, fuel cells, solar-hydrogen generation, intelligent integration of solar cells with the grid, solid-state lighting, and efficient combustion technologies.

IIT Kanpur takes the lead as the primary institute for the Ganga River Basin Environment Management Programme. Additionally, the institute engages in various activities such as developing adsorbents for water filtration, establishing effluent treatment plants for industries, and conducting pilot plant demonstrations to mitigate air pollutants

The utilization of membrane technology, coupled with inventive flow designs, has proven effective in generating recyclable water and producing organic fertilizer. Pilot-scale demonstrations of this technology have been successfully implemented in various settings, including railways, community toilets, and houseboats.

Numerous activities are currently being undertaken to facilitate both the production and utilization of biodiesels as a viable replacement for mineral diesels.

In order to maintain the living standards of a continuously growing population, it is crucial to obtain chemical compounds from abundant natural sources in a manner that is both straightforward and energy-efficient, while causing minimal harm to the environment. Catalysis plays a pivotal role as the fundamental technology for transforming difficult substrates into valuable chemicals. IIT Kanpur has established a robust program dedicated to the advancement of homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysts, with the aim of achieving efficient, effective, safe, and sustainable processes and products. This endeavor also encompasses the exploration and implementation of atom-economy reactions, as well as the engineering of catalysts to enable the use of environmentally friendly solvents in large-scale chemical processes.