Kerala's air-freshener gel from coir pith wins patent, to hit overseas markets

The National Coir Research & Management Institute (NCRMI) won its first patent from the Government of India recently for its technology to develop the air-freshener gel 'Cocoaura' from coir pith, a natural material derived from coconut husk.

- Sovi Vidyadharan @T'Puram

The product is all set to hit overseas markets. Coir pith, which is readily available and easily biodegradable, is a key by-product of the coconut industry.

"Natural essential oils provide a pleasant fragrance, eliminating the use of synthetic chemicals commonly found in traditional air fresheners. A natural gelling agent ensures controlled release of the fragrance for sustained odor elimination and air freshening within the closed environment," explained Abhishek C, Director of NCRMI.

According to NCRMI researchers, the sustainable and effective invention minimizes environmental impact while promoting in-vehicle air quality. The gel passively releases the fragrance through evaporation and diffusion.