IIT-Guwahati Collaborates with Hyderabad Firm for Large-Scale Bio-Methanol Production

IIT-Guwahati has joined forces with Hyderabad-based Kaashyap Cleantech Innovations for the commercial production of bio-methanol. The partnership aims to scale up a production technology that converts methane and carbon dioxide, both greenhouse gases, into bio-methanol, a liquid fuel useful as a solvent in industries.

This innovative technology developed at IIT-Guwahati focuses on biological conversion, circumventing issues associated with traditional methods like high energy consumption and toxic by-product generation. The process derives bio-methanol using a chemoautotrophic biocatalyst under mild conditions, which offers environmental benefits, including reduced CO2 emissions and enhanced fuel efficiency in diesel engines.

The breakthrough promises to provide an eco-friendly, cost-effective source of clean energy that contributes to carbon reduction efforts. According to Kaashyap Group's Managing Director, Kiran KK, the development holds potential for carbon credit eligibility, pushing forward the transition to a net-zero emissions future.

(With inputs from agencies.)