Skill Development Program On Pond Ash Bricks Technology Held
Bhubaneswar: The CSIR-Institute of Minerals and Materials Technology (CSIR-IMMT) organized a comprehensive skill development program titled “Training Cum Demonstration on Pond Ash Bricks Technology” as part of the CSIR Integrated Skill initiative and in commemoration of the CSIR-IMMT Diamond Jubilee Year Celebration.
The event unfolded with a captivating demonstration on Pond Ash Bricks Technology held at the Center for Waste Utilization of the Environment & Sustainability Department. Enthusiastic participation was observed, with over 25 attendees hailing from diverse sectors including industries, MSMEs, startup ventures, academia, and budding entrepreneurs.
Guiding the proceedings was the esteemed organizing committee, comprising luminaries such as Dr. Ramanuj Narayan, Director of CSIR-IMMT, Bhubaneswar; Dr. D.S. Rao, Chief Scientist & Head of HRD; Dr. Nabin Kumar Dhal, Chief Scientist & Head of the E&S Department; Dr. SK Pradhan, Coordinator of the CSIR Skill Development Program; Dr. Syed M. Mustakim, Convener; and Er. R. Sathish, Co-Convener.
Dr. Ramanuj Narayan, in his address, underscored the essence of innovation, advocating for the acquisition of innovative skills and cultivating a mindset geared towards innovation in the pursuit of knowledge.
He delved into the institute’s unwavering commitment to innovation, education, and the preservation of cultural heritage, shedding light on the significance of fly ash in the realms of environmental sustainability and technological advancement.
Furthermore, Dr. Ramanuj elaborated on the promising trajectory of biotechnology, urging aspiring individuals to explore training opportunities given its potential benefits for Odisha and the nation at large. Within the context of skill development in Pond Ash Bricks Technology, he accentuated the pivotal role of chemistry across various facets of life and knowledge, drawing parallels with ancient architectural marvels such as those witnessed in Harappa. Additionally, he elucidated on the scientific underpinnings behind the architectural splendor of the Shree Jagannath Temple, hinting at a fusion of traditional craftsmanship with modern scientific principles.
CSIR-Institute of Minerals and Materials Technology, Bhubaneswar, stands as a beacon of innovation, actively spearheading the development of energy-efficient green processes for the utilization of diverse industrial and mining solid wastes in the production of building materials like bricks, blocks, concrete, and aggregates. Notably, the Environment & Sustainability Department has established a pilot plant facility for brick and block manufacturing, showcasing the process’s efficacy in leveraging industrial wastes such as Fly ash, Pond ash, Red Mud, Slag, etc.
Fly-ash brick manufacturing technology has already been licensed to 17 MSMEs and 4 major industries, marking a significant stride towards sustainable construction practices.
The program meticulously elucidated the best practices in Pond ash building brick manufacturing, adhering to the BIS-12894:2002 standards to ensure durability and meet compressive strength and water absorption requirements. This technology was demonstrated by experts Dr. S.M. Mustakim, Dr. R. Boopathy, and Er. R. Sathish.
Participants actively engaged with and absorbed insights into the brick-making process from pond ash throughout the one-day skill development program. Their positive reception and subsequent requests for similar programs underscored the value of such initiatives in fostering skill development.
