MUMBAI, India, Jan. 9 -- Intellectual Property India has published a patent application (202511114948 A) filed by Chandigarh University, Mohali, Punjab, on Nov. 21, 2025, for 'underwater drone for micro plastic detection using the novel material - balsa wood.'
Inventor(s) include Dr. Prakash Mohan; Manmeet Kaur; Mohd Irshad Malik; and Dr. Arundhati.
The application for the patent was published on Jan. 9, under issue no. 02/2026.
According to the abstract released by the Intellectual Property India: "The present invention relates to an eco-friendly underwater drone system for real-time detection and monitoring of microplastics in aquatic environments. The invention comprises a lightweight and biodegradable body primarily constructed from Balsa wood, providing natural buoyancy, structural stability and environmental safety. The drone integrates microplastic detection technologies, including optical or fluorescence-based sensors and a water sampling and filtration unit for in-situ analysis. It further includes a battery-operated propulsion system, onboard control electronics and communication modules enabling autonomous or remote operation. The use of Balsa wood as the primary material ensures biodegradability and reduces ecological impact in case of system loss. The invention offers a sustainable, modular and cost-effective solution for environmental monitoring, research and educational applications, thereby addressing the limitations of conventional underwater vehicles made from non-biodegradable synthetic materials."
Disclaimer: Curated by HT Syndication.
