CSIR Transfers Bio-Bitumen Technology For Sustainable Road Construction

(MENAFN- KNN India) New Delhi, Mar 31 (KNN) In a move aimed at advancing sustainable infrastructure and circular economy practices, the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) has transferred its indigenously developed bio-bitumen technology for large-scale industry adoption.

The technology, titled“Bio-Bitumen from Lignocellulosic Biomass – From Farm Residue to Roads,” has been jointly developed by CSIR-Central Road Research Institute and CSIR-Indian Institute of Petroleum. It enables the conversion of agricultural biomass and crop residues into a renewable alternative to conventional petroleum-based bitumen.

The technology transfer was formalised during an event held in New Delhi, attended by Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Minister of State for Science and Technology Jitendra Singh, and CSIR Director General N. Kalaiselvi.

Speaking at the event, Chouhan described the innovation as a“transformative step” linking agriculture with infrastructure and innovation. He emphasised that the utilisation of farm residue in high-value applications could generate additional income streams for farmers while reducing stubble burning and associated environmental pollution.

Jitendra Singh stated that the initiative reflects India's push towards self-reliance and clean energy transition, anchored in the“Waste to Wealth” approach.

He added that the technology has demonstrated durability and compatibility with conventional bitumen, along with a lower carbon footprint, making it viable for deployment in national highway projects under the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.

CSIR director general Kalaiselvi underscored that the development marks a shift from petro-based to bio-based materials, aligning with long-term sustainability goals.

The bio-bitumen is produced through a thermochemical conversion process using lignocellulosic biomass, offering a low-carbon alternative while addressing key challenges such as agricultural waste management and dependence on imported bitumen.

The initiative is expected to facilitate the transition of laboratory-scale innovation into field-level implementation, supporting greener road infrastructure across the country.

(KNN Bureau)

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