CSIR-NIIST and RRII to join hands to find solutions to technological challenges, emerging needs of rubber sector

Development of high-performance, high-value rubber products for sustainable business and indigenous chemicals and organic/hybrid cross-linking synthetic agents to reduce import dependency are some of the proposed areas of joint research between CSIR-National Institute of Interdisciplinary Science and Technology (CSIR-NIIST), Thiruvananthapuram and Rubber Research Institute of India (RRII), Commerce Research Institute of India (RRII).

CSIR-NIIST and RRII are collaborating on research and development aimed at addressing critical technological challenges and emerging needs of the rubber sector. The initiative focuses on “Development of advanced functional materials and innovative solutions to technological challenges in the rubber sector,” a NIIST statement said on Monday.

The collaborative discussions were held at CSIR-NIIST, Thiruvananthapuram on Monday in the presence of M. Vasanthagesan, Executive Director, Rubber Board; Debabrata Ray, Director, RRII; and C. Anandharamakrishnan, Director, CSIR-NIIST, along with scientists and officials from both institutions.

The collaboration is envisaged under CSIR-NIIST Innovation, Technology and Entrepreneurship Hub (NIIST-ITE Hub) at Bio 360 Life Science Park, Thonnakkal, here. The center is intended to extend support for R&D, incubation, training and early science and technology interventions to support rubber and allied industries in Kerala.

Other proposed areas of cooperation include innovative recycling processes, particularly carbon black recovery and reuse; microbial treatment of wastewater for pollution-free rubber processing; implementation of NIIST process know-how for odor control; analytical and characterization support for raw materials and final products; and innovative processes for devulcanization of rubber products and sulfur-free vulcanization.

“The collaboration will provide a strong platform to translate scientific knowledge into practical technologies for the benefit of the rubber industry, entrepreneurs and other stakeholders,” said Dr. Anandharamakrishnan.

Mr. Vasanthagesan said this initiative will benefit the entire rubber sector, including upstream, midstream and downstream stakeholders, especially rubber farmers,” he said.

It is also expected to support the development of scientific and technical skills among workers in the rubber industry, start-ups, entrepreneurs and researchers.

Published – 07 Sep 2026 21:47 IST