Biomimicry Research

R&D at ECOSTP: Shaping the Future of Wastewater Treatment

At ECOSTP, innovation drives our goal to make wastewater treatment sustainable, affordable, and nature-inspired. Our R&D focuses on solving pressing environmental challenges through deep tech and biomimicry-based solutions. This section showcases four cutting-edge initiatives—from removing persistent chemical pollutants and converting sludge into high-value byproducts, to mimicking a cow’s digestive system for improved treatment efficiency. Each project reflects our commitment to low-energy, scalable, and environmentally responsible technologies that redefine the future of sanitation.

If you're interested in supporting these deeptech research or would like to learn more, reach out to us at team@ecostp.com.

PEB (Phenol Eating Bacteria)

In collaboration with IIT Jammu, ECOSTP is developing a breakthrough anaerobic bacteria strain—code-named PEB (Phenol Eating Bacteria)—to naturally biodegrade harmful chemicals like phenols and surfactants in wastewater.


Unlike conventional methods that are energy- intensive and costly, this biomimicry- inspired approach offers a sustainable,low-cost alternative. Lab trials are underway to validate its potential for scalable, eco- friendly water treatment.

Rethinking Pesticide Cleanup—Sustainably

ECOSTP, in collaboration with IIT Jammu, is actively researching sustainable methods reduce pesticide contamination in wastewater— a growing concern due to the widespread misuse of agrochemicals. These harmful residues often leach into water bodies, posing serious environmental and health risks. Our research focuses on developing nature-based treatment systems as an alternative to conventional technologies, which are energy-intensive, costly, and difficult to maintain.

By leveraging ecological processes and biomimicry, we aim to create a low-cost, efficient, and scalable solution that aligns with our mission of sustainable wastewater treatment.

Turning Waste into Value: Biochar & Hydrochar from Digestate Sludge

ECOSTP, in collaboration with Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology, is exploring the conversion of digestate sludge into high-value biochar and hydrochar through pyrolysis.

We carried out a characterisation study to evaluate the physical, chemical, and structural properties of biochar and hydrochar, comparing their quality and potential applications.

Our research focuses on characterising these carbon-rich materials and comparing their potential for soil enhancement, carbon sequestration, and pollutant adsorption. By studying how pyrolysis conditions impact performance, we're paving the way for a circular, waste-to-resource approach in wastewater treatment.

Development of Nature-Inspired Internal Structures for Enhanced Anaerobic Bio-Reactor Performance

As part of our ongoing biomimicry research, ECOSTP is working with academic partners to develop a novel internal configuration aimed at improving anaerobic digestion efficiency.

This stealth research focuses on engineering a surface morphology that enhances hydrodynamics, microbial adhesion, and biofilm stability within the reactor environment.

The design takes cues from optimised biological systems to promote conditions conducive to high-efficiency anaerobic microbial activity, thereby improving pollution reduction while maintaining a low energy footprint.

This R&D project is funded by the Design Impact Movement, an initiative by Titan Ltd, and represents a significant step forward in sustainable, passive wastewater treatment innovation.