Carbon crunch: Shoolini scientist’s pine cone-based industrial fuel

In a significant advancement, a Physics professor at Shoolini University has identified a promising technique to convert fallen Himalayan pine cones into high-carbon industrial fuel.

With the potential to replace polluting coal-based carbon used in industries, the technique, if commercially successful, could transform forest waste into a sustainable energy solution.

Dr Itika Kainthla, Assistant Professor of Physics, who developed this low-cost and eco-friendly innovation, said it could reduce reliance on fossil fuels and lower industrial carbon emissions while also 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,” explained Dr Kainthla.

Analyses revealed a coal-like atomic structure with well-stacked carbon layers, while traces of naturally occurring nitrogen, oxygen and sulphur enhanced its catalytic activity.

Further studies confirmed that the reaction was spontaneous and endothermic, with favourable kinetic and thermodynamic properties, highlighting the catalyst’s efficiency and reliability for industrial use. The innovation demonstrates how a biomass-derived material can provide a greener, cost-effective alternative to coal-based carbon, supporting cleaner and more sustainable chemical manufacturing worldwide.

Beyond the technical achievement, the project carries personal significance. Dr Kainthla’s research draws from her childhood memories of collecting and painting pine cones in her neighbourhood. “This is more than just science; it’s about giving back to nature and finding solutions in what we often overlook,” she said, adding, “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.”

Terming it a key 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.”