Dir, Registrar say eco-friendly system set to transform roads
Srinagar, Apr 20: In a major advancement in sustainable infrastructure engineering, the National Institute of Technology Srinagar has been granted a patent by the Patent Office, Government of India, for a novel material system titled “Zinc-Coordinated Porphyrin-Integrated Geocomposite Systems for Sustainable Pavement Engineering.”
The patent has been awarded to a research team led by Dr Vivek (Assistant Professor, Civil Engineering) and Dr Ravi Kumar (Assistant Professor, Department of Chemistry), along with collaborators including PhD scholar Dr Waseem Arif, Mr Attaullah Kaleem, Ms Kizafa Aftab, and Mr Manzoor Hussain.
The innovation marks a significant step forward in the development of high-performance, eco-friendly road construction technologies.
The patented technology introduces a new class of functional geocomposite materials by integrating zinc-coordinated porphyrin structures into pavement systems.
It is specifically designed to enhance both mechanical strength and environmental performance of road infrastructure, particularly under challenging climatic conditions such as those found in cold regions like Jammu and Kashmir.
According to the team, the developed material system demonstrates improved resistance to rutting and fatigue cracking, two of the most common causes of pavement failure.
By modifying the internal structure of pavement layers at the molecular and composite levels, the innovation enables improved load distribution, enhanced durability, and longer road service life.
In his message, Director NIT Srinagar, Prof Binod Kumar Kanaujia, extended congratulations to Dr Vivek, Dr Ravi Kumar, and the research team.
He said the grant of this patent reflects the institute’s strong focus on high-impact research and innovation. This breakthrough demonstrates how advanced material science can address real-world infrastructure challenges while promoting sustainability, Prof Kanaujia said.
Institute’s Registrar, Prof Atikur Rehman, termed the development a landmark achievement.
“This accomplishment highlights the dedication and interdisciplinary collaboration of our researchers. It also reinforces our commitment to fostering innovation and intellectual property development,” he added.
Dean Research and Consultancy (R&C), Prof Roohie Naaz Mir, emphasised the wider implications of the innovation.
“This patented system has strong potential for application in modern pavement engineering, especially in regions requiring durable and climate-resilient infrastructure. It is a step toward translating academic research into practical solutions,” she added.
HOD Civil Engineering Department Prof J. A. Bhat and HOD Chemistry Prof Kowsar Majid congratulated Dr Vivek, Dr Ravi Kumar, and the team for securing the patent. They termed it a proud moment for the institute.
