NIT Rourkela secures a patent for its biodegradable packaging from flower waste

The patent was granted by the Patent Office of the Union Government on Monday.

The material decomposes by 95% within 50 days without leaving harmful residues or microplastics.

It results in a nutrient-rich compost containing carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.

The patented method involves pretreatment of flower waste, integrating with polyvinyl alcohol, and adding glycerol for flexibility.

The research team was led by Prof. Raj Kishore Patel of the chemistry department.

Researchers Souvik Mandal, Sudipta Pahari, and Abhijit Behera were involved in the development of the product.

Prof. Patel stated that this patented technology will economically benefit floriculturists, small scale collectors, temple communities.

Its applications are widespread in agriculture, food packaging industry, retails and logistics.

This sustainable packaging aligns with India's Plastic Waste Rules and global standards.

It is low cost, scalable and environmental friendly packaging alternative.

This technology promises to create micro-entrepreneurial opportunities in regions with abundant floral mass.