Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati, led by Dr Poonam Kumari from the Department of Mechanical Engineering, have developed a novel eco-friendly composite material using locally grown Bambusa tulda, a fast-growing bamboo species native to Northeast India, combined with biodegradable polymers.
This composite demonstrates superior strength, thermal stability, low moisture absorption, and cost-effectiveness, presenting a sustainable alternative to conventional plastics used in automotive interiors like dashboards, door panels, and seat backs.
The research, published in Environment, Development and Sustainability (Springer Nature), aims to address the growing global plastic pollution challenge while supporting India’s Make in India and Green Tech Revolution initiatives.
Innovative Research Led by Dr Poonam Kumari and Team
The initiative was spearheaded by Dr Poonam Kumari, Professor in Mechanical Engineering at IIT Guwahati, with key contributions from her research scholars Abir Saha and Nikhil Dilip Kulkarni. The team developed four composite formulations by reinforcing alkali-treated bamboo fibres with either petroleum-based or bio-based epoxy resins. The alkali treatment enhanced the fibre-polymer compatibility and durability.
Evaluated rigorously using Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) techniques across 17 parameters—including tensile strength, thermal resistance, impact durability, water absorption, and cost—the composite reinforced with a bio-based epoxy named FormuLite stood out as the most balanced and high-performing option.
It achieved a tensile strength of 144.76 MPa, demonstrated thermal stability with a glass transition temperature of 111.72°C, and absorbed only 4.49% moisture. Priced competitively at ₹4,300 per kilogram, it serves as a cost-effective and eco-friendly material suitable for automotive and other industrial uses.
Dr Kumari stated, “Our composite can replace wood, iron, and plastic components, not only in the automotive sector but also in consumer electronics, aerospace, and sustainable construction. This development aligns with Sustainable Development Goals 7, 8, and 9, and supports the Make in India policy under the Green Tech Revolution.”
Harnessing Indigenous Bamboo for Sustainable Industrial Growth
Bambusa tulda, native to Northeast India, is fast-growing and abundantly available, making it an ideal raw material for sustainable composites. This innovation promotes local resource utilisation while offering a green substitute for widely used plastic components in automobile manufacturing, a sector heavily reliant on plastics which contribute significantly to environmental pollution.
The IIT Guwahati team is now conducting a full life cycle assessment (LCA) to measure the environmental impact of the new composite from production to disposal. Plans are underway to scale up production using industrial techniques such as compression moulding and resin transfer, marking progress towards commercial viability and wider adoption.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective: Celebrating Innovation with Environmental Responsibility
At The Logical Indian, we commend this cutting-edge research that blends scientific innovation with eco-consciousness, providing a pragmatic solution to the pressing plastic pollution crisis.
The development of a bamboo-based composite demonstrates how India’s rich indigenous natural resources coupled with advanced research can drive sustainable manufacturing practices. Such initiatives inspire us to rethink material use and support a circular economy grounded in environmental stewardship.
