A technology process intended to help reduce pollution by getting rid of medical wastes has now thrown up exciting opportunities to convert the waste into a lucrative business.

Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (IICT), Hyderabad, has developed a novel technology to convert methyl mercapton, a byproduct, in the manufacturing process of the commercially successful drug Ranitidine, into methyl sulphonic acid.

According to Dr K V Raghavan, Director, IICT, the scientists could achieve 85 per cent conversion ratio. The process, implemented in the Ranitidine drug manufacturing unit on the outskirts of Hyderabad, had helped in cutting down air pollution problems caused by methyl mercapton gas. While the company has saved Rs 1.2 crore which could have been spent in eliminating air pollution, the converted methyl sulphonic acid commands a market value of Rs 70-100 per kg.

Dr Raghavan said encouraged by the results on the lab and pilot scale, IICT was continuing its efforts to reach 90-95 per cent conversion rates to get higher benefits. In association with the Hyderabad-based SMS Pharma, IICT had completed semi-commercial operations.

Based on the useful developments in the last few years, IICT had proposed setting up a commercial plant to derive the twin advantages of reducing environmental implications and making money. Efforts are on to involve a consortium of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in the setting up of the unit, Dr Raghavan said.

The project was implemented under the UPTECH programme of the government of India, which aims to address the technological upgradation issue and promote synergy between small and medium-scale units.

IICT is the nodal agency to implement the programmes under UPTECH for the Hyderabad bulk drug SMEs. IICT, the state government and BDMA have formed a consortium to take up projects under the programme.