IIT Dhanbad Researchers Develop Eco-Friendly Electrochemical Reactor for Copper Recovery

Researchers at IIT Dhanbad have developed a groundbreaking electrochemical reactor that extracts copper from wastewater, earning a patent for their innovative technology. This advancement promises to enhance sustainable practices in the mining and metallurgy sectors by facilitating efficient wastewater treatment and resource recovery. Led by Professor Vipin Kumar, the research team aims to address environmental challenges while promoting eco-friendly solutions. With a focus on environmental microbiology and solid waste management, this patent underscores the institute's commitment to developing technologies that benefit society and the environment. Read on to learn more about this significant achievement and its potential impact.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 31, 2026, 22:24 IST

Innovative Technology for Sustainable Wastewater Treatment

Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) - Indian School of Mines (ISM), Dhanbad, have been granted an Indian patent for developing an electrochemical reactor capable of extracting copper from wastewater. The institute announced this achievement on Friday. According to the institute, this technology is expected to significantly enhance the sustainable treatment of industrial wastewater and resource recovery, particularly in the mining and metallurgy sectors.

The patent, titled ‘An Electrochemical Reactor for Cathodic Recovery of Copper from Wastewater,’ was awarded by the Government of India’s patent office to Professor Vipin Kumar from the Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, along with his PhD students Nishant Pandey and Ankur Singh. This innovative technique not only facilitates the treatment of wastewater but also enables the recovery of copper through a cathodic electrochemical process, providing eco-friendly solutions for industries, especially in mining and metallurgy.

Professor Vipin Kumar stated, “This patent is the result of several years of dedicated research. We underwent a rigorous testing process to validate the novelty and scientific utility of this technology. We hope this innovation will aid in the sustainable management of wastewater and resource recovery, particularly in mining-affected areas.”

Professor Sukumar Mishra, the director of IIT-ISM, emphasized that this patent highlights the institute's commitment to developing socially beneficial technologies. He remarked, “This achievement reflects our dedication to finding innovative and sustainable solutions to environmental challenges.”

The institute noted that Professor Vipin Kumar's research focuses on environmental microbiology, microbial-based electrochemical systems, solid waste management, and biological wastewater treatment. He has published over 100 research papers and has received several accolades, including the Inder Mohan Thapar Foundation Research Award. He is also a member of the National Academy of Sciences.