Indian Scientist Patents Device to Trap Microplastics in Rivers

A researcher from the University of Mumbai has received an Indian design patent for a device that captures and sorts microplastics from rivers. The invention, developed by Dr. Pandurang Yashwant Patil, targets particles smaller than five millimetres in freshwater ecosystems. The university has praised the achievement as a significant step in environmental research. The patented device uses a multi-stage filtration system to separate organic waste and microplastics from river water. It aims to tackle the increasing problem of microplastic pollution in freshwater environments. The technology is particularly important for the river ecosystems of Ratnagiri and the Konkan coast, with potential for wider application across India.

The Department of Environmental Science at the Ratnagiri Sub-campus is already involved in air and water quality research. Future upgrades to the device may include solar power, smart sensors, and real-time monitoring to improve its efficiency. The design patent represents the first formal step towards producing the device for river conservation.

The University of Mumbai has highlighted this development as a key contribution to scientific solutions for environmental issues. The patent strengthens the institution’s dedication to addressing pollution challenges. The device could soon play a role in protecting river systems across the country.