Chitkara University Researchers Develop a Microwave-Assisted Sustainable Technology for High-Purity Silica Gel Production from Rice Straw

Chitkara University Research and Innovation Network (CURIN) at Chitkara University has developed an innovative, sustainable, and energy-efficient microwave-assisted technology for synthesizing high-purity silica gel from rice straw, a high-ash agricultural residue that has long posed environmental and economic challenges. The process is supported by an indigenously developed semi-automated system and follows a zero-waste, circular-economy approach, offering a viable alternative to conventional silica extraction techniques.

Rice straw and similar crop residues are produced in large quantities across northern India and other agrarian regions. Owing to their high silica content, strong lignin binding, low bulk density, and high ash fraction, these residues are difficult to utilize effectively. They are unsuitable for animal feed, problematic for energy generation due to silica deposition on boiler surfaces, and are therefore often disposed of through open-field burning. This practice contributes significantly to air pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, soil degradation, and public health concerns. Conventional methods of extracting silica from such biomass are typically slow, energy-intensive, and cost-prohibitive, limiting their practical application.

To address these challenges, the research team developed a microwave-assisted chemical extraction and synthesis route that utilizes both the thermal and non-thermal effects of microwave energy to catalyze chemical reactions. This approach significantly reduces processing time, enhances mass transfer, and improves overall energy efficiency compared to traditional heating methods. The patented process enables efficient extraction of silica from rice straw ash and its subsequent conversion into high-purity silica gel, while being compatible with semi-automated operation and decentralized deployment.

The synthesized silica gel exhibits excellent material characteristics and is suitable for a wide range of applications, including use as a desiccant, catalyst support, humidity control medium, and chromatographic stationary phase. The process has been rigorously validated through scientific and technical studies, including Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy for functional group analysis, proximate analysis for biomass characterization, spectroscopic and microscopic techniques for structural and morphological assessment, and thermogravimetric and physical performance analyses to evaluate thermal stability and material integrity. These studies confirm the chemical purity, structural consistency, and functional reliability of the produced silica gel.

Preliminary assessments indicate strong potential for economic viability and large-scale commercialization. Detailed economic feasibility studies are currently underway to optimize process parameters, determine the most suitable scale of operation, and finalize the commercial design of the technology. In parallel, life-cycle assessment studies are planned to evaluate environmental impacts and explore opportunities for carbon credit generation. The technology is expected to transform the crop-waste market by creating value from agricultural residues, enabling micro-entrepreneurship in rural areas, strengthening local supply chains, and reducing dependence on imported silica products.

This innovation contributes significantly to global sustainable development by supporting affordable and clean energy through efficient biomass utilization, promoting decent work and economic growth via rural entrepreneurship, advancing industry, innovation, and infrastructure through indigenous and scalable technology, and fostering sustainable cities and communities by reducing air pollution from crop residue burning. It further encourages responsible consumption and production through a zero-waste, waste-to-wealth model, strengthens climate action by lowering greenhouse gas emissions and enabling carbon credit pathways, and supports life on land by reducing soil degradation and land pollution associated with improper biomass disposal.

With continued efforts toward scale-up, commercialization, and policy integration, this microwave-assisted silica gel synthesis technology represents a significant advancement in sustainable materials research and agricultural waste valorization. The innovation reinforces Chitkara University’s commitment to impactful research, environmental stewardship, and inclusive economic development, positioning the institution as a key contributor to national and global sustainability initiatives.