HYDERABAD: The Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (IICT) has come up with a technology that can keep the temperature inside a house much cooler than outside. In fact, the difference can be as much as nine degree Celsius.

The low-cost thermally insulating roofing technology has also been transferred to Tata, which had sponsored the research project.

The technology was developed using light weight foam made of cashew nut shell, and the foam has been covered by a thin sheet of tin.

According to Shekharam Tammishetti, senior principal scientist and head, polymers and functional materials division, CSIR-IICT, the new technology has several advantages over the asbestos roofing or tin sheet roofing that is used now. “This foam roofing is not only light weight, but also acts as a shield against heat. If the outside temperature is 45 degree Celsius, the temperature in the house with the roofing will be only 36 degree Celsius,” he said.

It is learnt that Tata will use the technology for its low-cost housing projects. Scientists said that it can also be introduced in the market. If necessary, the foam can also be laminated on both sides with the thin tin sheet. Another feature of this roofing is the acoustics. Due to strong wind, a tin sheet roof or asbestos could make a lot of noise, but not the foam-based roofing.

Another roofing technology also has been developed and transferred to a Hyderabad-based company for commercial use. In this, castor oil structural foam is used. “In these technologies, renewable resources are used - they cost less and are highly effective”, Shekharam said.

With both the Centre and state government laying emphasis on housing, Tammishetti said IICT would only be too eager to assist governments in developing more cost-effective technologies for housing.