Malayalee scientists generates electricity from tapioca leaves at Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Sreekaryam

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Malayalee scientists at the Central Tuber Crops Research Institute in Sreekaryam have discovered that electricity can also be generated from tapioca leaves besides making bio-pesticides. A tube light was lit using this electricity. One have to pay less than one rupee per unit for the electricity thus generated. This new step was taken by Principal Scientist Dr. CA Jayaprakash, Senior Scientist Krishnakumar, Joseph Tom and Sreejith.

Their research into the production of bio-pesticides from the leaves and stalks that are left after tapioca harvesting also led to power generation. This type of electricity can only be generated in factories that produce organic pesticides from tapioca leaves. Construction costs are also low. It cannot be built independently like solar power.

One unit of electricity can be generated using 5 kg of tapioca leaf waste. Plant effluent in making bio-pesticides from tapioca leaves is used for this. Sprinkle dung on it. Methane gas is formed by the action of bacteria in the manure. (The process of methanogenesis). It may also contain other gases such as carbon dioxide. It can be passed through a scrabble tunnel to produce pure methane gas. Electricity is generated by rotating a generator by igniting methane gas. The machine will cost around Rs 1 lakh.

The technology will be given to private pesticide plants with the permission of the Central Government after getting the patent. The government fails to give recongnition to such projects. But private companies are in the process of acquiring patent for this.