Indian researcher patents device to trap and sort river microplastics

A researcher from the University of Mumbai has received an Indian design patent for a device that captures and sorts microplastics from rivers. Dr. Pandurang Yashwant Patil developed the 'River Microplastic Capturing and Sorting Device', which aims to address pollution in waterways. The achievement has drawn praise from university officials. The device works by intercepting microplastic particles smaller than five millimetres from river water. It uses a multi-stage filtration system to separate organic waste from plastic before sorting the microplastics. Future enhancements include solar power, smart sensors for automatic filter cleaning, and real-time monitoring.

Dr. Patil’s innovation is particularly important for the river ecosystems of Ratnagiri and the Konkan coast. These regions rely on clean water for biodiversity and local livelihoods. The Department of Environmental Science at the Ratnagiri Sub-campus has long focused on air and water quality research.

The Vice-Chancellor, Pro-Vice-Chancellor, and Registrar of the University of Mumbai congratulated Dr. Patil on the patent. This milestone marks the first step towards manufacturing the device and applying the research in real-world conservation efforts. The patent strengthens the University of Mumbai’s role in tackling environmental challenges. The device offers a practical solution for reducing microplastic pollution in rivers. Its implementation could benefit ecosystems and communities dependent on clean water.