India's push for sustainable infrastructure is being powered by new inventions in materials science, with leading institutions and startups developing innovative alternatives to traditional building materials. The Indian Institute of Technology, Madras, has been at the forefront of this movement, with its inventions being recognized at national and international forums.
One such invention is a special microbial formulation called AGRIGELs, developed by the IIT-M startup FIB-SOL Life Technologies. While primarily used in agriculture, the underlying principles are being adapted to create bio-based binders for construction materials, offering a sustainable alternative to cement. Similarly, researchers are exploring the use of industrial waste like fly ash and rice husk to create low-carbon concrete mixes that are both stronger and more eco-friendly.
Meanwhile, other startups are focusing on smart and self-healing materials. Researchers at various Indian institutions are working on materials that can repair micro-cracks in concrete automatically, significantly increasing the lifespan of buildings and bridges. This wave of sustainable materials invention is critical for India's massive infrastructure development projects, as it promises to reduce the environmental footprint of construction while creating more durable and resilient structures.