IIT (ISM) Dhanbad has signed an MoU with Bangalore-based sustainability startup sentra.world to research biochar’s potential in decarbonizing India’s steel industry. BiocharBiochar is a carbon-rich material created from biomass decomposition in low-oxygen conditions. It has important applications in environmental remediation, soil improvement, agriculture, carbon sequestration, energy storage, and sustainable materials, promoting efficiency and reducing waste in various contexts while addressing climate change challenges. More, a carbon-rich material derived from biomassBiomass is a complex biological organic or non-organic solid product derived from living or recently living organism and available naturally. Various types of wastes such as animal manure, waste paper, sludge and many industrial wastes are also treated as biomass because like natural biomass these More, offers a greener alternative to coal in steel production.

The partnership will focus on utilizing surplus biomass from over 10 Indian states, including agricultural residues like rice husk, sugarcane bagasse, and forest residues such as bamboo. By converting these materials into biochar, the initiative seeks to reduce air pollution caused by stubble burning while creating income opportunities for farmers.

Key research areas include producing high-quality biochar suitable for various steelmaking applications, such as coke production, sintering, and sponge iron processes. The adoption of biochar could potentially cut steel sector emissions by up to 40%. This is significant, as steel manufacturing currently accounts for 8–12% of India’s greenhouse gas emissions.

“This collaboration is pivotal for achieving net-zero emissions by 2070,” says Professor Sagar Pal, Dean R&D at IIT (ISM). Vikas Upadhyay, Co-founder of sentra.world, also highlights the importance of this milestone in decarbonizing hard-to-abate sectors.

The research is expected to standardize biochar-based processes, enhance sustainability, and position India as a global leader in innovative steel production practices. This aligns with India’s broader goals of industrial decarbonization and environmental sustainability.

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