India’s First Smart Algal Liquid Tree (SALT)
Context
The CSIR-Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research (CSIR-CIMFR) has introduced India’s first mobile Smart Algal Liquid Tree (SALT) in Dhanbad (Jharkhand) and Singrauli (Madhya Pradesh). The innovation is designed to improve urban air quality by using microalgae to remove atmospheric pollutants and capture carbon dioxide.
Facts
- Smart Algal Liquid Tree (SALT) is a portable algae-based air purification system in which microalgae are suspended in a water medium.
- Through photosynthesis, the algae absorb carbon dioxide (CO₂) from the surrounding air and release oxygen, helping reduce atmospheric pollution.
- The system can function day and night by utilising either sunlight or artificial illumination, making it suitable for deployment in densely populated urban locations.
- Besides removing carbon dioxide, SALT captures dust and suspended particulate matter by trapping pollutants within its liquid chamber as air circulates through the enclosed unit.
- The device is designed for low-energy consumption, drawing power from solar panels supplemented by conventional electricity, while requiring very little maintenance.
- Integrated sensors continuously monitor and display air quality indicators, including CO₂ concentration, PM2.5, PM10, temperature and humidity, providing real-time environmental data.
Significance
SALT demonstrates the potential of nature-based technological solutions for tackling urban air pollution. By integrating biological carbon capture with real-time environmental monitoring, it offers a sustainable option for improving air quality, particularly in cities where space constraints limit large-scale tree plantation.
Concepts
- Microalgae are microscopic photosynthetic organisms that convert carbon dioxide and sunlight into biomass and oxygen, making them effective natural carbon absorbers.
- Carbon sequestration is the process of removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and storing it to reduce greenhouse gas concentrations.
- PM2.5 and PM10 are airborne particulate pollutants that can penetrate the respiratory system and adversely affect human health.
- Nature-based Solutions (NbS) are approaches that utilise natural ecosystems and biological processes to address challenges such as climate change, pollution and environmental degradation.