Can the knowledge that we have accumulated about the Delhi Iron Pillar be used in modern technology? How can we utilize the knowledge to manufacture corrosion-resistant irons? What are the possibilities? Let us briefly explore the relevance of the Delhi Iron Pillar to modern technology.

Often, the relevance of studies conducted on ancient Indian science and technology is questioned because no direct applications can be envisaged by the revival of ancient Indian technologies in the modern context. However, studies on ancient Indian science can open new lines of thinking which may prove beneficial, if applied appropriately, in modern times. The paragraphs below present a new idea for the possible application of the scientific and technical knowledge that we have accumulated on the historically, culturally and scientifically significant Delhi Iron Pillar.

We begin by noting certain basic facts about modern iron- and steel-making technology. The technologies dealing with both the extraction of metal from the ore in the blast furnace and its conversion to steel are highly environmentally unfriendly. The emission of greenhouse gases and their role in causing deleterious climatic changes have been well documented. Therefore, there is an urgent need to adopt iron-making technologies that do not emit significant amounts of greenhouse gases. The main culprit is, of course, the coking coal used for extraction of iron. Interestingly, all the major coke oven batteries in existing iron and steel plants around the world are due for significant replacement in the very near future. The huge investment required for this activity has provided an opportunity to look afresh at the entire gamut of iron and steel making operations, in general.