Engineering Innovation in India
1. IIT Guwahati Develops Radiation-Resistant Cement Mortar for Safer Nuclear Facilities
With an aim to make nuclear facilities radiation-safe, researchers at Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati have developed a method to make cement mortar stronger, more durable, and better at blocking harmful radiation. The approach focuses on improving the material properties of the mortar so that it can perform both as a structural component and as a radiation-shielding barrier. By modifying the composition of the mortar, the researchers aimed to enhance its density and durability, which are important factors in limiting the penetration of radiation. Researchers have found that concrete made using this enhanced mortar is capable of reducing the risk of radiation leakage, thus improving the overall safety in locations such as nuclear reactors and other radiation-sensitive facilities. This could help create more reliable protective walls and structures in areas where radiation exposure needs to be strictly controlled. The development may also support long-term safety in such facilities by providing materials that can maintain their shielding performance over extended periods of use.
Nuclear disasters have shown that safety from radiation remains the utmost priority in nuclear energy systems. This depends on the strength of the materials used to build the power plant. Nuclear containment structures act as the protective barrier, designed to prevent radiation leaks during extreme events such as earthquakes, explosions, or sharp temperature changes. Cement mortar is a key ingredient in these structures. Therefore, improving the strength and radiation shielding of cement based materials is a essential to build a radiation resilient nuclear facility. As the world moves toward expanding nuclear energy to meet rising electricity demands and climate commitments, the safety and durability of nuclear infrastructure become even more critical. To address this challenge, the IIT Guwahati research team modified the cement mortar by combining it with four types of microparticles. These include – Boron oxide; Lead oxide; Bismuth oxide and Tungsten oxide. The research team added these microparticles in small amounts to test their effect on the cement mortar’s compressive strength after 28 days. The team also tested each microparticle’s ability to block mixed radiation fields containing gamma rays and neutrons.
The researchers found that each microplastic affected the mortar differently.
- Addition of lead oxide helped in making the mortar denser and stronger.
- Tungsten oxide increased the mortar’s cracking resistance, making it more durable.
- Addition of boron oxide improved the mortar’s protection against radiation.
- Tungsten oxide addition provided the broad-spectrum protection, blocking multiple types of radiation simultaneously.
By improving concrete’s resistance to heat, structural loads, and radiation, this developed cement-mortar supports the creation of safer and more resilient facilities. To explore the real-world testing and validation of the developed technology, the research team is looking for collaborations with nuclear energy agencies, construction material manufacturers, and infrastructure companies involved in nuclear facility development. Discussions are underway to test the developed cement mortar under simulated field conditions and pilot-scale applications.
2. IIT Gandhinagar PhD Scholar Develops Innovative Hydrogel Technology, Promising Safer, Minimally Invasive Surgeries
In a significant boost to India’s biomedical innovation landscape, an Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar (IITGN) Research Team has developed an advanced injectable hydrogel technology with promising clinical applications. It represents a successful translation of laboratory science into patented biomedical technology with real-world potential. The smart biomaterial can support doctors during minimally invasive procedures, particularly in treating gastrointestinal conditions such as colorectal polyps—abnormal growths that can develop into cancer if not detected and removed early. Mr Harshil Dave, a second-year PhD scholar in the Department of Biological Sciences and Engineering at IIT Gandhinagar, has been awarded the Vikram Sarabhai Young Scientist Award 2026 for the research. Current clinical practice involves injecting fluids beneath such polyps to create a cushion for safe removal. However, commonly used solutions like saline are quickly absorbed and often require repeated injections, increasing procedural complexity. Addressing this limitation, this research introduces a next-generation injectable hydrogel that flows like a liquid during delivery but rapidly transforms into a stable gel inside the body. The developed hydrogel platform highlights the potential of minimally invasive biomaterials to enhance procedural safety while addressing critical challenges in cancer prevention and wound healing. The next goal of the researchers is to translate it into practical medical solutions that can benefit patients in real clinical scenarios. The researchers aim to advance the technology toward clinical translation, including further validation studies and preparation for human trials. With continued development, injectable biomaterials like these could transform how doctors perform minimally invasive procedures, improve cancer prevention strategies, and enhance recovery for patients worldwide.
Developed using a plant-based molecule called ‘diglycerol monostearate’, the shear-thinning hydrogel can be precisely injected through an endoscopic catheter, forming a durable cushion that enables surgeons to lift and remove polyps more safely. This reduces the risk of tissue damage and bleeding, potentially improving outcomes in minimally invasive gastrointestinal procedures. Beyond surgical support, the technology opens up broader possibilities in healthcare. The hydrogel platform has demonstrated potential in tissue regeneration and wound healing by creating a protective, moisture-rich environment that supports recovery. Its inherent antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties further enhance its suitability for biomedical use. Researchers believe such biomaterials could play a key role in early cancer intervention strategies, safer surgeries, and advanced drug delivery systems.
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