Researchers at Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati have invented a Phase-Selective Organogelator (PSOG) — a novel molecule capable of detecting fuel adulteration and cleaning oil spills, marking a significant innovation in applied chemistry and environmental technology.

A New Milestone in Indian Scientific Innovation

The newly developed PSOG molecule functions by selectively absorbing hydrocarbons and solidifying them, making it useful in multiple domains:

• Detection of petrol adulteration, especially kerosene-mixing — a widespread issue in India.
• Cleanup of oil spills, by absorbing and solidifying oil from water without affecting the water column.

This makes the invention important for both governance and environmental protection.

Why This Innovation Matters

• Detects Petrol Adulteration: PSOG helps quickly identify kerosene-mixed petrol, improving fuel quality and aiding enforcement agencies.
• Cleans Oil Spills Efficiently: It selectively absorbs and solidifies oil from water, offering a low-cost, eco-friendly method for spill cleanup.
• Reduces Environmental Damage: Supports faster response to marine and freshwater pollution, protecting aquatic life.
• Indigenous & Scalable Technology: Provides a Made-in-India solution for fuel monitoring and environmental remediation.
• Supports Governance: Helps curb fuel fraud, enhances transparency, and strengthens environmental protection measures.

Source