In India, stubble burning, especially after the harvesting season, contributes a lot to pollution. What if there is a possibility to use the agri-waste for construction? IIT Hyderabad has put that into practice by constructing a building out of Bio-Bricks. Using this patented technique, one can build eco-friendly and cost-effective buildings.
Unavailability of raw materials required for the construction of bricks, lack of fertile land, and increasing air pollution have triggered the innovation. It is the brainchild of PhD scholar Priyabrata Rautray, who was mentored by Prof. Deepak John Mathew. Later, on the IIT Hyderabad Campus, they built the prototype of a guard cabin as part of the Bold Unique Idea Lead Development project, which is designed to exhibit the strength and heterogeneity of a material.
The sample building was done using Bio-Brick material with the support of a metal framework. On the roof, Bio-Bricks material is plastered over PVC pipes to reduce heat. To safeguard Bio-Bricks from rain, cement is covered over it. When the material is used on the roof and walls, heat will be reduced to 5 to 6 degrees. Moreover, it will help in maintaining a good temperature both in summer and winter.
These agro-waste Bio-Bricks are cheap. Farmers can make them at their site. When compared to burnt clay bricks, the Bio-Bricks will cost only between Rs 2 to 3 when produced in large quantities. Bio-Bricks not only creates an alternative raw material for building construction but also brings about employment opportunities at the grassroots level.
