Hummingbird News Desk
CHENNAI, 16 OCT: Researchers at the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) have unveiled a groundbreaking solar-thermal steam-based sterilization system that has the potential to transform healthcare in remote and rural areas of India. The innovative project, funded by the Climate Change and Clean Energy Division of the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, aims to address the challenge of sterilizing medical tools in regions where access to electricity and water is limited.
In a recent demonstration held at the IIT Madras campus on 14 October, the research team showcased a portable steam sterilization system powered by renewable energy sources, such as solar energy. The system utilizes portable steam cylinders charged by strategically placed solar energy stations, providing power generation and steam generation for medical sterilization. Special sterilization chambers were designed to effectively utilize the stored steam, ensuring the proper sterilization of dental tools and other medical equipment.
Prof. Sathyan Subbiah, from the Department of Mechanical Engineering at IIT Madras, emphasized the importance of safe sterilization in healthcare. He highlighted how millions of people in rural India lack access to proper sterilization due to the scarcity of water and electricity, often leading to post-treatment infections. The newly developed portable steam storage canister addresses this issue by facilitating minor medical interventions in remote areas, combating infections, and sterilizing surgical instruments effectively.
The portable canister, developed with multi-layer insulation, retains the heat of steam generated via solar plants for extended periods, making it a viable option for sterilizing equipment in remote areas. This innovation allows healthcare professionals to carry out sterilization activities without the need for a constant supply of water and electricity, thereby expanding the reach of medical services in underserved communities.
Prof. M. S. Ramachandra Rao, a Professor in the Department of Physics at IIT Madras, confirmed the success of the steam sterilization unit during tests on infected dental equipment. Pilot activities are scheduled to supply portable steam cylinders for dental camp activities in remote areas, showcasing the practical application of this cutting-edge technology in real-world scenarios.
Prof. T. Sundararajan, a Visiting Professor at the Department of Mechanical Engineering, IIT Palakkad, highlighted that the team is actively evaluating the techno-economic feasibility of the developed prototype system before moving forward with commercialization efforts. Notably, the researchers have already applied for two patents through the Intellectual Property Cell at the Office of Industrial Consultancy and Sponsored Research in IIT Madras, indicating the potential for further advancements and widespread adoption of this technology.
With this remarkable innovation, IIT Madras is paving the way for accessible and efficient healthcare solutions in remote and rural areas, significantly improving the quality of medical services and contributing to the overall well-being of communities across the country.
Tags: #IITMadras #SolarPowered #Sterilization #ruralhealthcare
