CSIR-Central Road Research Institute has launched a collaborative research initiative to use Waste Foundry Sand (WFS) in road construction. The partnership involves the Institute of Indian Foundrymen and Suyog Elements India Pvt. Ltd. The aim is to turn an industrial by-product into a useful material for sustainable infrastructure, while reducing waste disposal pressure and dependence on natural aggregates.
What is Waste Foundry Sand?
Waste Foundry Sand is a by-product of the metal casting industry. It is generated in large quantities, especially from foundry clusters, and creates disposal and environmental management challenges. Its reuse in road works fits the broader idea of circular economy, where waste is converted into a resource.
Objective of the Collaboration
The project seeks to develop scientific and scalable methods for using WFS in road construction. It will focus on:
- Characterisation of different types of foundry sand, including green sand and resin-bonded sand.
- Development of processing protocols for road applications.
- Technical validation for safe and effective use in flexible pavements.
- Industry outreach and scaling of the developed technology.
Institutional Roles and Significance
CSIR-CRRI will provide research expertise and scientific validation. The Institute of Indian Foundrymen will support industry coordination and knowledge dissemination. Suyog Elements will assist in implementation and scaling. The initiative is expected to promote eco-friendly road building, support waste management, and reduce pressure on natural construction materials.
Relevance for Sustainable Infrastructure
The project is aligned with India’s goals of green infrastructure, resource efficiency, and waste-to-wealth innovation. It also follows the model of earlier successful industrial by-product use in road technology, such as steel slag roads. If successful, the initiative could create a wider framework for using foundry waste in infrastructure development across the country.
Last Modified: April 29, 2026