ALAPPUZHA: The researchers at the Central Coir Research Institute (CCRI), Alappuzha, have developed a special umbrella from a mixture of coir and cotton that has the capability to block ultraviolet (UV) rays.The institute has applied for patent for the product. “The research carried out at the institute’s headquarters at Kalavoor near Alappuzha has found that coir can block UV rays,” said CCRI director U S Sharma.As part of the research, the institute had built a house using coir. More than two years into the experiment, the institute found that the lignin in coir cuts UV rays, said Sharma. UV rays which causes skin cancer is the main hurdle to umbrella makers. An umbrella made of polyester or cotton cannot prevent UV rays from piercing through it. The CCRI has developed two types of umbrellas- a normal one and big umbrellas used at golf courses and beaches. Big umbrellas made of polyester or cotton are commonly used as a cover from the sun on the beaches, but it cannot protect from UV radiation. Even at golf courses in western countries, big umbrellas are widely used as a temporary shelter.However, the coir umbrella has a drawback: it cannot be used in rain. The construction and materials used for making frames and other parts are the same as normal umbrellas. “After obtaining patent, the Coir Board will sell the know-how to public parties,” said Coir Board chairman V S Vijayaraghavan. Various types of umbrellas developed at the CCRI were exhibited at the Indian Trade Fair in New Delhi recently. Some of the industrialists had shown interest to buy the technical know-how, the chairman said.
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