In a significant step toward transforming healthcare and water purification, scientists at the Indian Institute of Information Technology, Allahabad (IIIT-A) have developed an indigenous, low-cost device that can separate blood plasma within minutes and purify contaminated water just as quickly.
Currently, separating plasma from a unit of blood takes around 10 to 15 minutes, but this new device slashes that time drastically—offering faster and more cost-efficient processing.
Dual-Functionality: Blood and Water Purification
Designed under a project funded by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, the innovation received a 20-year patent and was published in the Royal Society of Chemistry journal in the UK.
The device not only separates all blood components—including red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), platelets, and plasma—but also filters out bacteria and suspended particles from water with high accuracy.
How It Works: Simple Science, Powerful Impact
Dr. Amit Prabhakar, who led the project from the Department of Applied Sciences at IIIT-A, explained that the device uses hydrodynamic techniques and micro-channels to deliver one drop of purified liquid per second.
He emphasized, “It’s a simple application of general science, but highly efficient. The device works with remarkable precision in separating biological and non-biological contaminants.”
Cost Advantage: Making Technology Accessible
Compared to conventional machines that cost several lakhs of rupees, this device is expected to be priced at just ₹1,000, making it affordable for rural health centers and small clinics.
Moreover, for water purification, scaling up the device could bring costs down to ₹50–200 per unit, with a complete setup costing around ₹5,200.
No Membrane, No Hassle: A Cleaner Alternative to RO Systems
Unlike traditional reverse osmosis (RO) systems, this innovation requires no replaceable candle or membrane filters.
The device can filter particles as small as 2 nanometres and as large as 10 micrometres, offering a robust alternative to existing technologies.
Upgrades and Ongoing Improvements
In 2022, the IIIT-A team added a feature to detect purification levels in water, further enhancing the device’s utility. Dr. Prabhakar noted, “We’ve already seen success in removing bacteria from water. We are now refining the device to boost efficiency.”
Team Effort and Patent Milestones
As reported by TOI, the project saw contributions from M.Tech students Ankur Jaiswar, Praveen Kumar, and Amar Dhwaj. Between 2015 and 2020, the team filed five patents, of which three have been granted and two are under review.
Wider Impact: Supporting Self-Reliant India
This innovation could significantly benefit both urban and rural communities. It offers a sustainable and affordable solution for critical healthcare and sanitation needs.
“With continued support, this invention could play a pivotal role in India’s journey toward self-reliance,” Dr. Prabhakar concluded. “It holds great promise for advancing healthcare and sanitation technology.”