To combat the pollution that stubble burning causes in Northern India, two students from Gujarat, Hetvi Burkhawala and Yashi Patel, have recycled wheat straw to make a composite material.

The technical textiles-compatible composite material is derived from a variety of textile byproducts, including viscose, polyester, and pineapple. Wool and coconut fibres were utilised as binding materials, and chemical and microbiological processes were employed under the supervision of Mantra experts.

Expectations from the collaborators: Combining two or more materials with distinct physical and optical properties yields a composite material with a unique set of features. North India is particularly hard hit by stubble burning, so this finding is good news for farmers and the planet.

Incentives: Vehicles, such as cars, can benefit from the composite material's ability to reduce AC load and roof heat by adding it as an interior layer or letter. Car dashboards, technical textiles (seating, curtains, and seat covers), and other automotive applications can all benefit from this non-woven material.