Graviky Labs is a pioneering startup transforming air pollution into valuable products, notably through their innovative creation, AIR-INK. By capturing soot from vehicle emissions and industrial processes, they convert harmful pollutants into high-quality ink, offering a sustainable solution to environmental challenges.
The Genesis of Graviky Labs
The inception of Graviky Labs traces back to 2012 when Anirudh Sharma, then a student at MIT Media Lab, observed soot stains on his clothing caused by vehicular emissions in Mumbai. This observation led to the idea of repurposing air pollution into usable materials. Collaborating with Nikhil Kaushik and Nitesh Kadyan, Sharma co-founded Graviky Labs, aiming to mitigate air pollution by converting it into ink. (technologyreview.com)
The Technology Behind AIR-INK
At the heart of Graviky’s innovation is KAALINK, a proprietary device that attaches to exhaust systems of vehicles and industrial machinery. This device captures up to 95% of particulate matter without affecting engine performance. The collected soot undergoes a purification process to remove heavy metals and carcinogens, resulting in a carbon-rich pigment. This pigment is then processed to create AIR-INK, a safe and high-quality ink suitable for various applications. (technologyreview.com)
Applications and Collaborations
AIR-INK has been utilized in diverse fields:
- Art and Advertising: In 2016, Graviky Labs collaborated with artists in Hong Kong to create murals using AIR-INK, raising awareness about air pollution. (technologyreview.com)
- Fashion Industry: In 2021, they partnered with sustainable fashion brand Pangaia to produce apparel printed with AIR-INK, showcasing the fusion of sustainability and style. (forbesindia.com)
- Corporate Collaborations: Graviky has worked with companies like Dell and MasterCard to promote sustainable printing solutions, integrating AIR-INK into their products and operations. (forbesindia.com)
Recognition and Impact
Graviky Labs’ innovative approach has garnered significant recognition:
- Awards: They won the Falling Walls Science Summit 2021 award in the Science Start-Ups category, highlighting their contribution to sustainable innovation. (media.mit.edu)
- Global Collaborations: In 2022, they partnered with Johnnie Walker and creative agency Bulletproof for the “Keep Walking City Collection,” featuring city-inspired art created with AIR-INK. (media.mit.edu)
Environmental Significance
By converting air pollution into usable ink, Graviky Labs addresses environmental concerns on multiple fronts:
- Pollution Reduction: Capturing particulate matter before it enters the atmosphere helps decrease air pollution levels.
- Sustainable Production: Repurposing waste into valuable products reduces the demand for virgin materials and lowers the overall carbon footprint.
Future Prospects
Graviky Labs continues to explore new applications for their technology, aiming to expand their impact across various industries. Their work exemplifies how innovative thinking can transform environmental challenges into opportunities for sustainable development.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What is AIR-INK?
A1: AIR-INK is a type of ink produced by Graviky Labs through the purification and processing of soot collected from air pollution sources.
Q2: How does the KAALINK device work?
A2: KAALINK is a device that attaches to exhaust systems to capture particulate matter from emissions. The collected soot is then purified and processed into usable ink.
Q3: Is AIR-INK safe to use?
A3: Yes, after purification, AIR-INK is free from heavy metals and carcinogens, making it safe for various applications.
Q4: In which industries can AIR-INK be applied?
A4: AIR-INK has been used in art, fashion, and corporate branding, among other industries, to promote sustainability.
Q5: How does AIR-INK contribute to environmental sustainability?
A5: By converting harmful air pollutants into usable ink, AIR-INK reduces environmental pollution and promotes the recycling of waste materials.
