Ministry of Science & Technology
From Waste to Wealth: CSIR-AMPRI Builds India’s First Geopolymeric Concrete Road
CSIR-AMPRI, Bhopal Develops India’s First Cement-Free Fly Ash Based Concrete Road
Posted On:
17 APR 2026 5:24PM by PIB Bhopal
CSIR-Advanced Materials and Processes Research Institute (CSIR-AMPRI), Bhopal has successfully demonstrated India’s first fly ash-based, cement-free geopolymeric roller compacted concrete road. This innovative and eco-friendly road stretch, developed within the institute campus, has now been completed and opened for use.
The project was inaugurated and opened to traffic on April 16, by Prof. Vinod Kumar Singh, Institute Chair Professor, IIT Kanpur and Chairman of the Research Council, CSIR-AMPRI. Earlier, the project was launched on February 2, 2026 by Dr. N. Kalaiselvi, Director General, CSIR and Secretary, DSIR. This advanced road technology uses fly ash instead of traditional cement, making it highly environment-friendly. The geopolymeric concrete used in the road reduces CO2 emissions by around 83 % and requires no water curing. It also has nearly 80% lower energy consumption compared to conventional concrete.

The road has been constructed using low slump geopolymer concrete, achieving a compressive strength of 35–40 MPa and flexural strength of 4–4.5 MPa within 21 days. This ensures durability and strength comparable to conventional rigid pavements. The project was carried out under the guidance of Prof. Thallada Bhaskar, Director, CSIR-AMPRI. The work was led by Dr. (Er.) Manish Mudgal, Scientist G and Head, SCMD-CARS&GM, along with his team as part of the CSIR Mission Mode project “Waste to Wealth.”

This pioneering technology highlights an eco-friendly and rapid road construction approach, offering a sustainable and durable alternative to conventional cement-based rigid pavement systems.
***
(Release ID: 2253023)
Visitor Counter : 1002