IRINJALAKUDA: The Christ Engineering College has received a research grant for the innovative idea of enhancing the strength of concreting by using rice husk ash (Umikkari) as fine aggregates. The research for the Technological University is being funded by the Kalady Rice Millers Consortium (KRMC).

The idea presented by a team, comprising of Dr M G Krishnapriya, Dr Jino John and Vineeth Sharon, was approved in the Innovation Challenge conducted by the Technological University on how to utilize husk charcoal (husk ash), an important waste material in the rice manufacturing industry. If the research turns successful, then it could reduce the use of Msand and sand in concreting to a great extent. It could also provide a permanent solution for the issue of rice husk ash processing.

The first installment of the grant was accepted by Dr Jino John, on behalf of the Christ Engineering College, from the Technological University Vice-Chancellor Dr M S Rajasree in a ceremony held at the Minister of Industries P Rajeev’s chamber in Thiruvananthapuram. The civil engineering department of the Christ Engineering College has also excelled in the successful completion of consultancy projects for various agencies including Natpak, public works, water resources departments, local bodies and private institutions.