Researchers at the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-Central Institute of Mining and Fuel Research (CSIR-CIMFR) have developed India’s first mobile ‘Smart Algal Liquid Tree’ (SALT). It is a novel air-purifying system that utilizes microalgae to absorb carbon dioxide (CO₂) and release oxygen in polluted urban areas.
It is designed for congested cities and industrial areas, and this technology utilizes microalgae suspended in water within a sealed chamber. Here, the algae remove CO₂ from the surrounding air through photosynthesis and release oxygen.
This project was led by Vetrivel Anguselvi. She explained that the primary objective of this innovation is to address air quality challenges in densely populated areas with limited greenery. According to officials, this patented technology has already been deployed at the CSIR-CIMFR campus in Dhanbad and at Northern Coalfields Limited (NCL) in Madhya Pradesh, where it has received a positive response.
This system helps reduce dust levels and monitors air quality in real-time using integrated sensors. The device measures parameters such as CO₂ levels, temperature, humidity, and particulate matter. Designed to operate on both solar power and electricity, it not only purifies the air but also provides a shaded seating area for four to eight people and facilities for charging mobile phones and laptops, making it a public utility solution.
Researchers said the SALT system can be deployed at locations including schools, airports, railway stations, bus terminals, shopping malls, parks, theatres and industrial zones. This algae-based system does not require soil, takes up little space, needs minimal maintenance, and can operate under natural or artificial light; additionally, it is less affected by urban pollution and pests.
Officials from CSIR-CIMFR stated that discussions regarding the commercial production of this technology are underway. Efforts are also being made to keep costs low so that the system can be adopted in homes, residential areas, and pollution-prone zones.
