IIT-Madras and Indus Towers join hands for research on glass fibre reinforced polymers

The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-M) and Indus Towers, an international telecom tower company, have announced a partnership to initiate research on glass fibre reinforced polymers as a replacement for conventional steel structures.

The partnership aims to develop lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and high performance alternatives to the existing materials. The polymer holds promise for the infrastructure industry due to its superior strength-to-weight ratio, corrosion resistance, low maintenance, adaptability in design and ease of transportation and installation. The IIT-Madras will lead investigations into mechanical performance, durability, and lifecycle sustainability of the material, a press release stated.

Anil Gupta, Chief Technology and Delivery Officer, Indus Towers, and Ravindra Gettu, V.S. Raju Chair Professor, Civil Engineering department, and Ashwin Mahalingam, Dean – Alumni and Corporate Relations, IIT-Madras, were present.