NIT-K Surathkal develops jute-based geocell as alternative to plastic in roadworks

NIT-K Surathkal develops jute-based geocell as alternative to plastic in roadworks

Why in news

• Researchers at NIT-K Surathkal have developed an industrially manufactured ‘jute geocell’ to replace conventional petroleum-based plastic geocells for sustainable road construction.

Project Overview

• Aim: To replace conventional petroleum-based plastic geocells with an industrially manufactured ‘jute geocell’ for sustainable road construction and slope stabilisation.
• Developed by: Researchers at the National Institute of Technology Karnataka (NITK), Surathkal.
• Project Support: The project is funded by the National Jute Board under the Union Ministry of Textiles and was executed in collaboration with Birla Jute Mills.

Mechanism & Function

• Structure: The geocells function as three-dimensional, honeycomb-like structures.
• Application: They are placed beneath roads or on slopes to strengthen weak soil, improve load-bearing capacity, and control erosion.

Sustainability & Impact

• Environmental Benefits: Unlike existing high-density polyethylene or polypropylene options that cause microplastic pollution, this solution is cheaper, biodegradable, and eliminates long-term environmental risks.
• Target Areas: The innovation is designed for large-scale implementation, particularly in rural and ecologically sensitive regions where environmental preservation is critical.