PAU Alumnus Develops Geopolymer Cement, Paving the Way for Sustainable Construction

Er Manmohan Jain, a distinguished alumnus of Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), and his colleagues at Chennai-based Kiran Global, have come up with a game-changing innovation: Geopolymer cement. This eco-friendly alternative to Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) represents a significant step towards sustainable infrastructure. Er Jain, who graduated from the College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology in 1966, has spearheaded the development of this innovative technology.

Geopolymer cement signifies a significant shift in construction materials. Unlike OPC, which contributes significantly to carbon dioxide emissions during production, geopolymer cement is celebrated for its green credentials. It sets rapidly without the need for water in mixing and curing, reducing construction time and costs. This innovative material not only enhances efficiency with its swift execution and superior finish but also promises lower maintenance requirements over time.

Er Jain highlighted that geopolymer cement has already left its mark in prestigious projects like parts of the Delhi Metro and is increasingly adopted by railways for paving stones. Emphasizing India's role as the largest producer of cement, he revealed a staggering statistic: every tonne of traditional cement generates 800 kg of carbon dioxide. The construction industry could significantly mitigate its environmental footprint, by opting for geopolymer alternatives.

Dr. Manjeet Singh, Dean of PAU's College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, commended Er Jain's pioneering efforts. He underscored the department's contributions to researching geopolymers using rice husk ash and fly ash, efforts recognized in esteemed journals. Dr. Singh stressed the importance of raising awareness about geopolymer cement's benefits to foster widespread adoption and reduce the environmental impact of construction activities.

Dr. VP Sethi, Head of the Department of Civil Engineering, acknowledged that while the use of geopolymer cement is still in its infancy in structural applications due to the lack of standardized guidelines, countries like Russia, France, and Australia have successfully utilized this technology for decades.

Dr. Preetinder Kaur, President of the Alumni Association, lauded Er Jain's dedication to advancing sustainable building practices. She emphasized PAU's legacy of producing agricultural engineers who are not only excelling in traditional fields but also leading innovations across diverse sectors, including construction and beyond.

As awareness grows and technology evolves, geopolymer cement stands poised to redefine the landscape of global infrastructure, paving the way for greener, more resilient cities.