Solan: A breakthrough at Shoolini University is turning forest waste
into a sustainable solution with potential global impact. Dr. Itika
Kainthla, Assistant Professor of Physics, has developed a method to convert
fallen Himalayan pine cones into a high-carbon material capable
of replacing coal-based carbon in industrial processes. This low-cost,
eco-friendly innovation could help reduce reliance on fossil fuels and
lower industrial carbon emissions while producing styrene, a key
chemical used in plastics, synthetic rubber, and resins.
The
pine-cone-derived material contains over 90 per cent carbon, comparable
to high-quality anthracite coal. Laboratory tests showed exceptional
performance, achieving 60 per cent conversion and 78 per cent
selectivity in converting ethylbenzene into styrene. It remained stable and
effective for more than 30 hours, performing on par with high-end commercial
carbon materials, such as carbon nanotubes, but at a fraction of the cost.
Analyses revealed a coal-like atomic structure with well-stacked carbon layers,
while small amounts of naturally occurring nitrogen, oxygen, and sulphur
further enhance its catalytic activity.
Further studies
confirmed that the reaction is spontaneous and endothermic, with favourable
kinetic and thermodynamic properties, highlighting the catalyst’s efficiency
and reliability for industrial applications. This innovation demonstrates how a
biomass-derived material can provide a greener, cost-effective
alternative to conventional coal-based carbon, supporting cleaner and more
sustainable chemical manufacturing worldwide.
Beyond the
technical achievement, the project carries personal significance. Dr
Kainthla grew up collecting and painting pine cones in Himachal Pradesh, and
the same cones now form the basis of a scientific breakthrough with global
implications. She says, “This is more than just science; it’s about
giving back to nature and finding solutions in what we often overlook. Pine
cones are widely available across the Himalayan region, and our work
demonstrates that they can be developed into an efficient, low-cost, and
sustainable alternative to coal-based carbon. That this material performs on
par with advanced commercial carbons while remaining environmentally
responsible is particularly encouraging. It reinforces the idea that practical
solutions to global challenges can emerge when familiar natural resources are
re-examined with scientific curiosity and purpose.”
Expressing
pride in the breakthrough, Prof. Atul Khosla, Vice Chancellor of
Shoolini University, said, “This research represents the kind of innovation
India needs — solutions that are scientifically advanced, environmentally
responsible, and globally relevant. By transforming Himalayan pine cones
into a high-value industrial resource, this work aligns with the move towards green
manufacturing and demonstrates how universities can contribute to sustainable
development, while also highlighting the unique potential of the region’s
natural resources.”
The research,
conducted in collaboration with CNMS Bengaluru, has been published in
the internationally recognised journal ACS Sustainable Chemistry &
Engineering, placing Himachal Pradesh and Shoolini University on the global
map for sustainable materials research. With further development and scale-up,
this pine-cone-derived material could become a viable, eco-friendly solution
for large-scale industrial applications, bridging natural resources with green
innovation for a cleaner, more sustainable future.